Family Mardi Gras

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - This is a really fun time of year!  It's Mardi Gras!  We have parades, beads, moonpies, balls and all kinds of fun stuff.  And, a lot of that is great for our kids.  We talked with a local carnival expert to get the low-down on doing Mardi Gras kid-style.

Judi Gulledge is the Executive Director of the Mobile Carnival Association.  Mardi Gras has been a tradition in her family for years.  She says the best thing we can do as parents is to focus on the magic of it all!  Judi explains, "when the parade comes, it's like a storybook coming to life.  Make sure your child knows that the theme will be announced at the beginning of the parade with the theme float.  And, then each particular float that passes brings that storybook to life.  It's like a chapter in the book."

And, while we're enjoying all that magic and make-believe, there are some things we should do to make sure the experience goes smoothly.  That starts with parking.  It's always best to park as close as possible.  We know our little ones can get pretty tired walking blocks and blocks.  Judi recommends parking in well-lit, family friendly areas like the garage next to Riverview Plaza or the Civic Center lot.

Also, we need to make sure our kids know the rules of Mardi Gras.  Stay behind the barricades.  And, here's something neat that could be really helpful during the Mardi Gras experience.  Get to know the police officer at your location.  Judi says that often times the same officer is at the same location for the whole season.  It's fun to get to know them, and if they know your kids, that could really help if there's a problem.  There is lots of good fun to be had during Mardi Gras.

You can get a hands-on look at the history and magic of Mobile's Mardi Gras at the Mobile Carnival Museum.  For more information, click here http://www.mobilecarnivalmuseum.com/ .