The preparations for Saturday’s second annual Mardi-Gras Parade will be underway in Andalusia. It will take place at 2 p.m.
Last year’s first annual parade was a huge success and organizers are eager to bring it back next year.
“I love Mardi Gras, and I wanted to participate in a local Mardi Gras Parade. In 2017, I reached out to the public via my Facebook page. There was a lot of interest. We enjoyed the annual tradition and my family would continue to participate. It was great to see the parades in Mobile and New Orleans. I thought it would make a great addition to our community. Lead organizer Vanessa Nelson stated that many people travel to see parades in other countries, so it is logical to have one here in Andalusia.
Nelson is thankful for the help of others this year.
“We met with city officials last year to get permission to host this event. It was great to have a Mardi Gras celebration here in Andalusia. Brenda Gouge, Tammie Evans and Carol-Ann Mullins were there to assist me .”
Organisers are seeking walkers, riders and floats to join their event.
“Last year we had a fantastic turnout on such an amazing day. We didn’t expect such a large turnout, as we only went to City Hall. The parade was a success, with a large crowd. With people contacting me and showing their interest, I expect to double or triple this number. There are about 20 entries. Nelson said that he wanted to encourage people to participate in Andalusia and have fun, rather than traveling to larger cities.
Participants must sign a form acknowledging that they have read and understood the regulations. Entry fees are not required, but participants will be responsible for providing their own throws. We want this to be family-oriented and lots of fun. Entries will be able to sign the form and will know what they are allowed and prohibited .”
Nelson stated that there wouldn’t be a ball this year as organizers wanted to place more emphasis on the parade.
“Despite having a great turnout last year we will be focusing more on the parade and avoiding the ball this year. We want to make this parade great. Without the parade, there is no parade. This time, our focus is on growing the parade and eventually having a certified crew like you would see at a bigger Mardi Gras parade. Our ultimate goal is to create a parade that has all the bells, whistles and flair you’d find in other areas span>
The route will be longer this year. It will begin at the First Baptist Church, and continue down East Three Notch Street until it reaches the end at Pirate Graphics. We ask that everyone be ready by 1:30 p.m. span>
You can submit entries to the Andalusia Marchi Gras Facebook page. Those who have pre-registered will receive a registration form soon.
For more information email kreweofandalusia@gmail.com or call Vanessa Nelson at 334-488-3545.
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