Cities Host Celebrations for Annual Mardi Gras Events

Mardi Gras celebrations took place across multiple cities, showcasing community spirit and festivity. In Aransas Pass, Texas, the fourth annual Saltwater Mardi Gras featured a gumbo cook-off and live music, drawing locals together for a day of fun. Meanwhile, the 15th annual Mardi Gras Columbia Festival in South Carolina attracted over a thousand attendees with a parade, live performances, and a focus on charitable donations in memory of its late founder. New Orleans is also experiencing heightened security measures for Mardi Gras, with increased law enforcement presence following recent public safety concerns, although traditional parade routes remain unchanged. Additionally, Mardi Gras events globally serve as a vital space for the LGBTIQ+ community, fostering pride and acceptance through public celebration. These festivities emphasize joy, community, and resilience, reflecting the diverse ways Mardi Gras is honored.