Jefferson celebrates Mardi Gras with ‘Mythology Madness’ parade

JEFFERSON, Texas (KLTV) - Louisiana isn’t the only state celebrating Mardi Gras this weekend. Jefferson put on the purple, green and gold as community members gathered for the annual event.

This is the city’s 33rd annual Mardi Gras put on by the Krewe of Hebe, the organizers of the event. This year’s theme is Mythology Madness.

The celebration started in 1989 to promote tourism in the city.

“Jefferson thrives on tourism, and this is usually a slow time of the year because it’s right after Christmas, so that’s why in 1989 a group of individuals got together and created Mardi Gras right here in Jefferson, and it helps us during those slower months,” said the Krewe of Hebe vice president.

The festivities began Feb. 16 and ended with Sunday’s children’s parade. Decorative floats and even golf carts drove down Austin street. And of course, you can’t forget about the beads.

“I like catching beads, and I like where all the fire trucks and cops come down and stuff,” said event attendee Paisley Riddell.

“You know, I love my hometown, Jefferson, and I love Mardi Gras even more, and so it’s really fun to get to see all these people downtown,” said Zack Baldwin, another event attendee.

Many community members said they’ve attended for years, making this event a tradition.

Krewe of Hebe President Amanda Powell said, “I do remember coming from very early on. Streets were always packed, always busy, and I was always wanting to be a part of it, and then you know you get older and you get to help as well.”

Now, it’s become a tradition for the next generation with many children in attendance Sunday afternoon.

With a population of almost 2,000 people, celebrating Mardi Gras continues to thrive in this small town.

“A little town is so much more fun. Big, big towns are fun too. We know Shreveport, Louisiana, has great Mardi Gras, but we love our little town atmosphere. It’s like a family. The whole town’s like a family,” said event attendees Melanie Knight and Sheila Smith.

The Krewe of Hebe members said next year’s theme will be the roaring twenties.

Copyright 2023 KLTV. All rights reserved.