Mardi Gras Parade - Huntsville 2014

Did you see the parade last weekend? Thousands flocked downtown to witness Huntsville's first Mardi Gras parade (at least in many years). The turn out was estimated at the low end of 8,000 and the high end of 15,000. Either way, it shows that there is a desire for Mardi Gras celebrations, especially considering the event was pretty much ignored by local media until after the fact.

There were the inevitable problems, new event = unanticipated difficulties. Huntsville has become a big city while most of us weren't looking, and it's having some growing pains. However, on the whole people had a great time.

 

Kids toss beads down to an expectant crowd

Many people online are complaining about the parade. It was too short, beads were being thrown, beads were not being thrown, it wasn't as good as other places, etc. 

I'd like to put my two cents in too:

Thanks to the Krewes who put so much time and energy into this. 

Thanks to the city officials willing to take a chance on this.

Thanks to the families and individuals who show up to support this.

I'm looking forward to next year!

That being said, I do have some criticisms of the parade because there is room for improvement in absolutely EVERYTHING. If we don't critically examine something it will never get better, but without support it will never get off the ground. First, I'm going to share the awesomeness I saw at the parade. As always, click on the photo for a larger view.

Military marching band

They started the parade off with an official looking band all marching in sync. On a cue from the band leader, they all broke into dance and music of epic proportions.

Mayor Tommy Battle

The mayor showed his support by appearing in the parade atop one of Huntsville's really cool antique firetrucks.

Krewe member handing out beads to kids

All the Krewe members I saw used discretion when distributing beads. They tossed beads and coins to the back row, the taller adults who had their hands up, while gently handing out items to the little ones in the front row.

Walkers with their prettiest parasols

Enthusiasm holds strong as the parade continues 

There was a equal dispersal of walkers and riders, avoiding the "endless lineup of cars" pitfall that many parades fall into. Many Krewes still held enthusiasm for the job even when they had been at it for 10 blocks by the time they reached where I was set up.

Straight To Ale's awesome bikeman

This guy is just awesome. Also, check out the headcam! Anxiously waiting to see the results.

Straight To Ale's skeleton crew

While keeping it family friendly, they still managed to bring a little of the feel of a classic Mardi Gras, such as these dancing girls dressed as skeletons.

Giant beer cans - enough said

The parade was made up of more than just people riding in an undecorated car, waving. 

Many flatbeds had some cute decorations like tea-tables, balloon hoops, electric lights, and even a pirate ship.

Theatre Huntsville makes a scene

The crowd anxiously awaits the pirates

Who are these fantastic ladies in pink?

There was good variety among the Krewes. Not all the groups were business related. 

The Cotton Candies

These fantastic ladies outdid themselves with their costumes, and had lots of fun!

Many folks made the parade special for everyone, working both sides of the street and crossing frequently.

Dixie Derby girl zooms in

There were no horses (which I always loved as a kid), but people on roller skates is pretty durn cool.

Krewe du Pride

I am extremely proud of Huntsville that this Krewe made such a splash on my parade block. While it may not have been true for some of the parade route, the loudest cheer from everyone around me was for equality.

J.O. Johnson Highschool Marching Band rockin' it

The streets were packed and several dance and band Krewes kept us pumped with some great jams.

Doggies enjoy showing off in the parade, too

Krewes made sure our furry friends were represented in the parade, too. The dogs were calm and confident and available for a quick pat as they marched by...or rode.

Wagon ride

David Blackwell Music

There was great music, and not just marching bands. Using the marvels of modern technology, many flatbeds housed musicians who need amps.

Shiny stuff brought to you by Tim's Cajun Kitchen

Participants of all ages, sizes, colors, and viewpoints cooperated to make this parade.

Thanks for the pose, girls!

While it may not be able to be said of absolutely everyone who participated, most of the Krewes were enthusiastic and hamming it up for the crowd. That makes ALL the difference in a parade.

Fox's Mad Hatter Krewe - this lady was into it

This lady below, shown getting ready to shower the crowd with special items, was sooo into her performance I was hit again with the excitement I felt at the start of the parade - even though they were the last float.

Oh, what's coming out of the bag?

And just where else in Huntsville can you see all this crazy stuff?

Jester from Encore Pub and Grill

The Doublehead Krewe multiculturalizes 

This is just the beginning. Check back for more crazy photos as the evening wears on and the colors get brighter. Also hear what I'd like to see in the parade next year. What would you like to see?

And so many things were happening at once that I didn't get the names of many of the Krewes or their sponsors. If you see your Krewe's photos and I haven't given you credit, please let me know so I can correct this blog and add you name to the upcoming posts. Leave a comment here or get in touch with me on Facebook, Twitter, or Google+