Mardi Gras Upriver
Festivals Around the World
Jefferson- Celebrate Mardi Gras upriver this year! Jefferson’s annual Mardi Gras Upriver celebration is just around the corner. Mardi Gras has been celebrated in Jefferson, Texas for many years. The tradition goes back to the old steamship days of Port Jefferson, when the boats would travel up from New Orleans. Today, the festivities last an entire weekend and feature parades, bands, food, frosty beverages, and of course, beads!
Historically, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in Jefferson since the 19th century. This is a sign of the city’s cultural ties with New Orleans via the waterways of the Big Cypress Bayou, Caddo Lake, Twelve Mile Bayou and the Red River. Legends of the parties thrown in Jefferson appear in area newspapers of the throughout history, noting particularly the galas, including the Queen Mab Ball, held in Jefferson, and other events thrown aboard boats plying the waterways between Jefferson, Texas and Shreveport, Louisiana.
Up to 25,000 revelers have been known to converge on the City of Jefferson for Mardi Gras, so book your rooms soon because the bed and breakfasts are known to fill up fast. Many rooms are booked a year in advance, so it’s important to make your reservations early.
Meanwhile, get ready to sink your teeth into a slice of King Cake, grab your mask, a handful of beads, and get ready for Mardi Gras Upriver in Jefferson, Texas this February 17, 18, and 19.
The Krewe of Hebe’s Queen Mab Ball will be held Saturday, February 4, from 8:00 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are available for $40 per single and $300 per table for 8 people. For more information Call Eddy Williams (903-796-4378 / 903-277-2418) and Robin Howard (903-665-7738 / 903-240-6809).
Laissez les bon temps rouler, mes amis!
(Let the good times roll, my friends!)
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2012
6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.- Main Stage
DAZED
Hailing from Whitehouse, Troup and Mineola, this young group amazes the crowd everywhere they play. They bring back memories of the great bands of the past from Chuck Berry to Jimi Hendrix to Van Halen and many more. They have been referred to as young men with old souls. From the opening, you know these kids are special.
DOO DAH PARADE – 7:00 p.m.
Wild, wacky and zany parade where everyone is invited to dress in the craziest Mardi Gras costume and join in the parade. Revelers begin at Lion’s Park; and weave their way throughtout downtown and arrive at the Main Stage for the Alley Dance. Doo Dah Theme: “Light Up the Night” – For more info contact: Betsy or Becca / 903-238-1145
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2012
LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY
11:00 a.m. – 2:00p.m. Main Stage
Jeff Taylor Band
An exciting 9-piece contemporary and classic variety music experience that includes two female vocalists and the famous “Horns from Hell,” including signature trumpeter Jeff Taylor.
MOTORCYCLE PARADE – 1:45 p.m
GRAND PARADE – 2:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Main Stage
Jo-El Sonnier
“King of Cajun,” his French speaking and American lyrics combined with infectious fun loving musical energy is displayed through his spirited accordion virtuoso abilities.
4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Main Stage
Awards Ceremony
7:00 p.m. – 10 p.m. Main Stage
Me & My Monkey
Beatles Tribute Band Me & My Monkey is a must-see attraction featured in three evening performances. Tribute to The Early Beatle years, Sergeant Pepper Beatles and Abbey Road Beatles.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Main Stage
The Night Hawk Band
Hailing from Hope, Arkansas, this band plays a variety of gospel, Cajun, progressive country to name a few.
Children’s Parade
2:00 p.m.
Children’s Activities – Otstott Park/ Gazebo
Join in the fun with the Children’s Costume Contest, Ugly Dog Contest, Pet Look-Alike and Best Pet Costume Contest. Award Ceremony begins at 3:00 p.m.
ALL DAY ATTRACTIONS
LIVE MUSIC
CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL
ARTS & CRAFTS VENDORS
FOOD VENDORS
For more information log on to mardigrasupriver.com.