First Ever Mardi Gras Parade to Liven Up the Streets of Port Royal
In a historic first for the city, the Town of Port Royal is set to host its first Mardi Gras celebration Saturday, Feb. 17. The southern charm of Lowcountry will meet the exuberant festival traditions of Louisiana-style Mardi Gras, adding a vibrant fresh twist to local celebrations.
The premier installment of the Krew of Port Royal Mardi Gras Parade is scheduled to kick off at 4 pm. Starting by the post office on Paris Avenue, the parade will weave its jubilant way down to 11th Street, culminating at Shellring Aleworks. The brewpub is also hosting a family-friendly Mardi Gras after party.
The Colorful Parade & Carnival Spirit
According to Amber Hewitt, the secretary of Old Village Association, the parade lineup already boasts 47 walkers, 11 decorative golf carts, and three floats. A multitude of festively adorned bikes will also contribute to the lively procession. Local music will feature, with the Battery Creek Marching Band set to participate in the parade, amplifying the festive spirit.
Hewitt expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying, “It just seemed like a fun thing to do. We have never done it before, and as far as we know there haven’t been any other events like it.”
A New Annual Tradition?
With the equal parts exciting and novel concept, the Old Village Association hopes to establish this celebration as an annual affair, further enriching the local event calendar. Hewitt stated that “C’est Si Bon,” which means “So Good,” is the chosen theme for the event, and embodies the feeling they hope participants and spectators will take away from the celebration.
Mardi Gras After-party & Family Fun
A shellring after-party awaits revelers at Shellring Aleworks. Attendees can expect a feast of traditional Mardi Gras delicacies such as jambalaya, crawfish boil, and king cake, along with hearty hot dogs and hamburgers. In true festival fashion, children will be entertained with mask painting and face painting activities.
Adding to the auditory delight, the after-party will also feature the Parris Island Marine Corps Band. The much-anticipated event is expected to bring together people of all ages, spreading the joy of Mardi Gras.
However, interested participants will need to plan ahead, as there will be no in-person registration for the parade. Aspirants must register online by the night of Friday, Feb. 16.
Those seeking more information about the event can get the details from the Old Village Association’s Facebook page or by emailing Nancy Plank.
So be ready to let the good times roll, as the Mardi Gras fun is coming to town. It’s time to embrace the carnival spirit and join in the parade of color, music, and fun that awaits the town of Port Royal this Saturday.
