Costumed revelers and some music by Ken Marvel and Swamp Rock band helped kick-off the celebration during the Lamar State College-Port Arthur Mardi Gras Kick-off event on Thursday.

LSC-PA student Joshua Cuccio modeled a decorated 1970’s sports coat over a jesters unitard complete with a purple, gold and green umbrella while skating around the Carl Parker Center parking lot the band played the zydeco song ‘That Butt Thing.’

Fellow students Corbin Winston and Grant Rowland opted for white tuxedo jackets over their clothes and sports masks.

“This is a good way to get the party started,” Winston said. “When people see you having fun they want to join in.”

Megan and Jake Leverett brought along their children, Zaine, 4, and Avery, 5.

“It’s really fun,” Megan Leverett said of the event. “Last year there were students dressed up like New Orleans Mardi Gras and me and they kids danced with them. We had so much fun.”

The kick-off party was just the beginning of the celebration Thursday. At 6 p.m. the LSC-PA parade began its roll toward downtown.

Mardi Gras Southeast Texas continues Friday. Gates open at 6 p.m. and close at 1 a.m. on Procter Street in downtown Port Arthur.

The Golf Cart and ATV Parade begins at 7 p.m. leading the Valero Krewe of Krewes Parade. The parade begins at Rosehill/seawall, travels down Procter Street ending at Houston Avenue.

Main stage entertainment includes Cody Jinks at 7 p.m. and Aaron Watson at 10:30 p.m.

For more information, go to mardigrasportarthur.com

 

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