On Saturday, Feb. 15, Galveston College students, faculty and staff will participate in the 33rd Annual Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Mardi Gras parade, which begins at 12 p.m. and runs from 57th and Seawall to the Strand Historic District.

Also on Saturday, students, faculty and staff will participate in the Krewe of Gambrinus’ 31st Annual King Gambrinus Lights Up the Night parade, which starts at 6 p.m. at 4500 Seawall Blvd. and proceeds downtown through the Strand Historic District.

Click here to view the parade route.

According to the City of Galveston, the island’s 109th Mardi Gras celebration begins Friday, Feb. 14, and continues until Feb. 25, or Fat Tuesday. Both weekends are packed with parades, parties and, of course, beads.

The 10-day event is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees for masked balls, balcony parties, parades and concerts.

This island-style Mardi Gras has plenty of personality. There’s the classic revelry found in the heart of Galveston’s historic downtown district, where the bulk of festivities takes place, and also family-friendly events and parades along the Seawall.

To view the concert schedule, confirm parade routes and times, purchase tickets for ticketed events and venues, or to become a vendor, please visit the official Mardi Gras! Galveston website at http://www.mardigrasgalveston.com/.

To view the complete list of Mardi Gras street closures, safety reminders and transportation information, visit the City of Galveston website here.

For more information on Galveston College’s participation in Mardi Gras activities, contact Associate Vice President for Student Services Ron Crumedy at [email protected].