Krewe of Krews Parade. Photo credit Lindsey Janies
this event is a joy for the young spectators. Community groups sponsor the floats and any group can create their own entry into the parade, which is how I came to find myself as a bestower of beads. The number varies but has exceeded 100 floats—all with smiling folks throwing trinkets and candy. The fun starts even before the parade takes off when families converge on Lake Charles Civic Center to enjoy the activities, rides, and activities of Children’s Day. Youngsters can enjoy Mardi Gras arts and crafts and learn about the traditions and history of the carnival season. Another favorite is not focused on children, but still delights youngsters with its focus on dogs. The Krewe of Barkus features pooches in their Mardi Gras finest as they parade by the Civic Center. The title of "Mystical Dog" is given to the most strikingly costumed participant. Other quirky parades can include Jeeps on Parade, with decorated and festooned Jeep vehicles driven slowly down the parade route. Parades take to the water with lighted boats cruising along Lake Charles during the Lake Charles Mardi Gras Boat Parade. The finale of the season is the colorful and inventive
Children’s Parade. Photo credit Lindsey Janies
FAMILY FRIENDLY MARDI GRAS By Neala McCarten
A thousand small faces look up at me as I toss beads into the child-filled crowd. Arms raised and grinning with excitement, they catch the colorful glittering prizes. All Louisiana cities are filled with people who love the Mardi Gras season, and Lake Charles is no exception. But this lake-side city also offers fun-filled and unusual activities the whole family can enjoy. Child Friendly Parades Parades are abundant throughout the season, but to protect the young spectators the city has created “The Zone.” Designated as alcohol-and-tobacco free, families can all enjoy the parades together. But it’s the Children’s Parade that sets Lake Charles apart. As the name suggests, the floats are oriented to the youngsters who line the parade route and the whole route is family- friendly with no smoking or drinking. A strong police presence and dedicated community volunteers ensure
FAMILY FRIENDLY MARDI GRAS
COAST TO COAST SPRING MAGAZINE 2021
27
Made with FlippingBook Annual report