Mardi Gras. Just the name conjures up pictures of revelry. I wanted to attend a celebration for years so when I was invited by Shreveport-Bossier to “Laissez les bon temps rouler” (“Let the Good Times Roll”) at their family-friendly Mardi Gras, I couldn’t pass up the chance. With origins dating back to medieval Europe, the first Mardi Gras was held on American soil in 1703. While Mardi Gras was originally a tradition in the New Orleans area, by the late 1980’s and early 1990’s the fun had moved to Northern Louisiana as well.

If you are like me, you might have thought Mardi Gras referred to the season which lasts from Epiphany (January 6th) until Fat Tuesday. The season is actually known as “Carnival” and Mardi Gras (the day) is on Fat Tuesday. The season is celebrated with parades, balls, and other festivities. These are planned and hosted by “Krewes” (pronounced crews), organizations that perform community service projects throughout the year. My favorite is the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux, who host a ball and an animal parade. Throughout the year they develop, foster and promote programs to benefit abused, neglected, and homeless animals. If you’re ready to join in the fun, here’s just a few of the activities you don’t want to miss.

Shreveport Mardi Gras Activities

1. Krewe of Gemini Mardi Gras Parade – The oldest parading Krewe in Shreveport, the Krewe of Gemini has hosted an annual parade since 1990. One of the largest parades in the North Louisiana area, this is a “traditional” New Orleans type parade. Opulent floats line the street and thousands of revelers flock to the sidewalk yelling, “Throw me something, Mister!” Even I, who had planned to stand along the route just to see the show, found myself yelling for the beads and cups tossed from the floats. Fun fact: It’s a myth that you have to show anything to get beads. The people on the floats are happy to toss them into the crowd. This parade is typically held the Saturday evening before Fat Tuesday.

Opulent floats and costumed riders make The Krewe of Gemini parade exciting.

2. Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras Parade– If you’re looking for a different type of parade, the Krewe of Highland parade is known for its long route through the winding Highland community. Designed to incorporate anyone in the community, any type of float is welcome. One Krewe member enters a rickety-looking float each year known as “the deathtrap.” As one of the members explained, “You can drive a lawnmower in the parade and be welcome.” The throws are unique too. Besides the traditional beads and cups, parade-goers have a chance to catch packages of ramen, Moon Pies, and even hot dogs. Yes, that’s right! One member, Jeff Clark, tosses out around 7000 hot dogs each year. This parade is typically held the Sunday before Fat Tuesday.

Even Snoopy enjoys the Krewe of Highland Parade!

3. Krewe of Highland Masquerade Bal-Having never attended a Mardi Gras Ball, I had expected a formal affair. While most of the balls in the area are formal, the Krewe of Highland hosts a more informal, more risque ball. The 2018 theme was “Highland Ever After,” a fairy tale costume theme. The prerequisite for the ball was either wear a costume (which most of the participants opted for) or wear a mask. Because it is held outside, the night air was chilly, but the party was hopping. Once at the bal, (yes, it is spelled correctly) you can watch as they crown the royalty for the upcoming year, and then party the night away. There’s dancing, drinks, and light food. Or, you can be like me and spend the night exclaiming over all the adorable costumes.

masks

4. Mardi Gras Bash at Marilynn’s Place -Don’t want to go home after the parade? Marilyn’s Place, located at 4041 Fern Avenue in the Highland’s area, is THE place to be after the Krewe of Highland parade. Open to everyone and celebrating its seventh-year bash in 2018, they feature tasty food, beverages, and live music. With the VIP package, we received all the food and beverages we wanted, along with premium indoor seating. Tip: You’ll be glad to have warm indoor seating after a long cold parade. The food includes Cajun specialties like Crawfish, meat pies, gumbo, jambalaya, and some delicious beignets. After dinner, take a drink out to the covered tent (with heaters included!) and rock out to the various bands.

Expect unusual throws at the Krewe of Highland Parade.

Tips for attending a Mardi Gras Parade

*Arrive early to find a spot to stand or sit. You’ll have to provide your own chairs if you wish to sit.
*Check the weather before you go. I attended one parade in the rain and one in the (what felt like) freezing cold. I was very happy for my hat, coat, and hand warmers before the parade was over.
*Bring a small bag to hold all of your treasures you’ll collect during the parade.
krewe of highland parade