News Summary
Shreveport is abuzz with excitement as the annual Krewe of Gemini parade approaches, scheduled for this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The enchanting theme, ‘Dreamcatcher’, promises a captivating day filled with community spirit and vibrant Mardi Gras culture. Attendees can expect a parade route stretching 5½ miles, broadcasting options for remote viewers, and a royal court leading the festivities. The event not only entertains but also significantly boosts the local economy, highlighting its importance for the Shreveport community. Join in the fun for a memorable celebration!
Shreveport Gets Ready for a Spectacular Krewe of Gemini Parade!
Get excited, Shreveport! The annual Krewe of Gemini parade is just around the corner, happening this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. With its delightful theme this year—“Dreamcatcher”—it promises to be a truly magical experience for everyone involved. This festival has become a highlight for the community, attracting tens of thousands of attendees and showcasing the vibrant culture of Mardi Gras in the heart of Louisiana.
What to Expect on Parade Day
Families, friends, and festive souls will gather along a 5½ mile route that begins near the Sci-Port Discovery Center and winds its way along Clyde Fant Parkway and Shreveport-Barksdale Highway, finishing at East Kings Highway Park. With an expected turnout of between 300,000 and 500,000 spectators, the atmosphere will surely be electric, filled with laughter, excitement, and a sense of community.
Broadcasting the Fun
For those unable to attend in person, don’t worry! The parade will be broadcast live starting at 5 p.m. on local television. Plus, for those who prefer online viewing, you can catch all the action on social media with live streaming available on Facebook. And if you miss the live broadcast, there will be a highlight show airing later in the evening, so you can still soak in the festivities.
A Royal Celebration
This year, the Krewe of Gemini’s royal court features some notable members, including Captain Tony Richardson, King Mike Goslin, and Queen Janie Boydstun. There are also Dukes and Duchesses representing neighboring states like Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. To add to the pageantry, Chief John Mark Davis, a safety specialist and Chief of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation, will take on the esteemed role of grand marshal, leading the parade with pride.
A Parade Filled with Throws!
Ah, the throws! Each year, the Krewe of Gemini parades delight spectators by tossing nearly 2 million throws, including fun beads, quirky toys, and special items. It’s always a thrill to catch something unique as the float pass by. So, get your catching hands ready! You never know what prizes might come your way.
Economic Boost for Shreveport
Let’s not forget the *positive impact* this event has on the local community. The Krewe of Gemini parade contributes significantly to the local economy, with estimates suggesting an economic impact of over $16 million from Mardi Gras events in Shreveport. Out of that, directly over $9 million can be attributed to the parade itself! So when you enjoy the festivities, you’re not just having fun, but also supporting local businesses.
Important Details for Attendees
If you plan to attend the parade, be aware that the route will be closed to traffic starting at 1 p.m., so make your arrangements ahead of time. Also, be mindful that setting up tents or saving parking spaces is not allowed before 7 a.m. on parade day, with violations potentially resulting in citations or towing. So, plan wisely to ensure a pleasant experience.
A Tradition Since 1990
The Krewe of Gemini is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich traditions of Mardi Gras since 1990. The float loading party has been scheduled for Friday evening, giving those involved a chance to add their final touches and get pumped up for the exciting day ahead.
As we gear up for the Krewe of Gemini parade, it’s clear this event will be a fantastic celebration. So put on your favorite Mardi Gras gear, grab your friends and family, and join in the fun this Saturday in Shreveport! It’s a day filled with joy and community spirit that you won’t want to miss!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- KTBS: Krewe of Gemini Ready to Roll
- KSLA: Krewe of Gemini Parade Takes to the Streets
- 710 KEEL: Mardi Gras Parade Rules
- KTBS: KTBS 3 Parade Tracker Activated
- KSLA: Shreveport Police Mardi Gras Safety Tips
- Wikipedia: Mardi Gras
- Google Search: Krewe of Gemini
- Google Scholar: Mardi Gras
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mardi Gras
- Google News: Krewe of Gemini Parade
