3 for 30a Celebrates Mardi Gras

3 for 30A Celebrates Mardi Gras
Story by Sarah Murphy Robertson

This weekend, we say, let the good times roll! In 1837 the first Mardi Gras parade was held in New Orleans and the tradition has grown and thrived for the nearly 200 years since. Also known as Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras refers to the boisterous events of the Carnival celebrations and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.

30A is just shy of 300 miles to the east of this legendary week-long New Orleans party – capping off on Tuesday February 9th. But this weekend you’ll have plenty of chances locally to be a part of the revelry without the hassle of a road trip.
For Mardi Gras festivities on Friday February 5th, head to Pier Park for floats, live entertainment, and a fabulous fireworks show at 7:30 pm. Or check out the Mardi Gras fun in Destin Commons with beads flyin’, entertainment by The New Orleans Ramblers, and face painting for the kiddos. Be sure to stick around for the 7 pm parade.

On Saturday February 6th there is more Mardi Gras-style family fun to be had. HarborWalk Village at the Destin Harbor will hold their annual Mardi Gras street party and parade from 2 until 4 pm. Later that night, Local Catch Bar and Grill in Blue Mountain Beach will turn up the music for the third year in a row with Cadillac Willy. The grooving starts at 8:30 pm and will last late into the night.

Sunday February 7th in Seaside the show will get started at noon with face painting and street performers. Then at 2:00 join in the interactive annual parade starring the Village Brass Band. At 2:30, grab a comfy corner on the lawn for a live Donnie Sundal show in the Seaside Amphitheater. Seaside will be abuzz with festivities and recreation that afternoon for sure!