Snowbirds flock to beach parade

GULF SHORES, Ala. (WALA) - SNOWBIRDS FLOCK

There were bands, floats, beauty queens, beads, and MoonPies.

But the Gulf Shores Mardi Gras parade is different. You can tell by just one look at the crowd.

Snowbirds flock to this parade. From their condos, they swarm and proudly show off where they're from on their hats and sweatshirts.

“We love the beach. We love the people, the people are so friendly here and just the atmosphere, I think,” a woman from Michigan told us.

Some are first-timers and getting their initial taste of Mardi Gras excitement.

“I’m excited to see the first Mardi Gras parade!” exclaimed another woman from Michigan.

“To see the warmth and hospitality. It’s really wonderful down here,” a woman from Wisconsin said.

FOR SOME, AN ANNUAL TRADITION

Others come back, year after year, to enjoy the fun. After all, it’s a celebration unlike anything back home in Wisconsin or Michigan.

“We love Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and the parades and all the people. It’s a super place to come,” another woman from Michigan told us.

Of course, the best thing about Mardi Gras is that it doesn’t matter if you’re a novice, or where you’re from, or how many birthdays you’ve seen. The only requirement required is to have a good time.

“Well we like the beach and I need one MoonPie and then we’re good to go. Yeah that’s it… and a lot of laughs,” a happy man from Wisconsin said.