UPDATE 2/18/2012: Due to the major rain in Natchitoches the Krewe of Dionysos has BEEN CANCELED & will not be rescheduled. Krewe of Waguns will roll on Sunday February 19, 2012 at 2pm.

Are you ready for Mardi Gras? Natchitoches Krewe of Dionysus is ready for you! Formed in 1995 the Krewe of Dionysus has over 300 members and a dozen or more super float set to hand out thousands of beads, cups, and medallions while local marching bands keep the beat. Natchitoches Louisiana is a family oriented community that offers all the celebration and spectacle of a Mardi Gras parade without the dangerous crowds and packed surroundings of New Orleans. Natchitoches, also known for its world famous Christmas Festival, has been highlighted in several films and television movies and strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment to celebrate this unique holiday and celebration of life.

The parade will take place on February 18th 2012 around 5:30pm. The Dionysus Krewe will gather on Hwy 1 South Drive for their floating party earlier in the day and families are encouraged to join them and gather and tail gate with friends. The route continues down Hwy 1 South Drive and then cuts across the Keyser bridge to continue onto Jefferson St. and head into the Historic Downtown of Natchitoches. The Parade will continue through the Historic district and offer families, tourists, locals, and out of towners a perfect vantage point to raise your arms and chant “Throw me something mister!”

The day will kick off with the unique Wag-uns Parade, which will highlight local pet lovers and their family friends as they stroll down the street and throw their own brand of beads and treasures to cheering observers. The Wag-uns Parade will begin at 1:00pm at the Bank of Montgomery on Washington Street and wind through the historic downtown areas. Children and pet owners are encouraged to attend and even participate with a minimal $5 registration fee. After the main Dionysus Krewe parade the party will continue on Front street and the river bank as the Jazz Cats, sponsored by Natchitoches Main Street, will provide music and fun suitable for all ages. If your are hungry or in need to shop, Front Street provides a wide variety of food and unique shops that will provide items only found in our heritage rich community. So come out and join us in our celebration of fun and excitement. Join in our all day event and celebrate our love for life as you experience original Louisiana music, food, and heritage at the Krewe of Dionysus parade February 18th 2012!

Other Bicentennial events include small celebrations, speakers, open houses, exhibits, concerts and more. For a complete list of all Bicentennial events in Natchitoches contact the Natchitoches Area CVB at (800) 259-1714.

The Bridal Affair will feature over 45 exhibitors representing top wedding professionals who offer the newest ideas in ceremonies and receptions.  Exhibitors including photographers, videographers, caterers, florists, wedding coordinators, beauty consultants, and shops offering designer bridal gowns and tuxedos will all be under one roof, so bring your entire wedding party!

Brides will have the opportunity to meet with local and regional vendors.  Imagine the convenience of securing necessary rentals and services, finding the dress of your dreams, choosing a beautiful tuxedo for your groom and groomsmen.  But, don’t stop there — You can also select unique invitations, wedding party favors, view photographers’ portfolios and best of all, sample cakes and cuisine from participating bakers and caterers.  Having all of these options in one location can save you valuable time and money!

In addition to great exhibitors, the Bridal Affair will host a fantastic fashion show at 3 p.m. giving you and your wedding party the opportunity to see the latest bridal attire trends including casual wear, flower girl dresses, mother-of-the-bride dresses, tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses, wedding gowns and much more.

Ladies, don’t forget to stock your purses with as many ‘everyday items’ as you can in order to be prepared for the “What’s in your Purse Contest”, plus listen for many chances to win wonderful door prizes including hotel accommodations, wedding consultations, spa packages, gift certificates, honeymoon packages and much more! You cannot miss the grand prize drawing at 4 p.m. to be held one block away in beautiful Beau Jardin, the brand new riverfront water garden.  Beau Jardin is the perfect venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, or setting for any intimate outdoor event. You will not want to miss this event that is guaranteed to make your wedding day everything you have dreamed of and more!

Like us on Facebook at Natchitoches Events Center to be included in a mystery drawing soon!

Limited exhibit booth space is still available.  For more information about the show call the Natchitoches Events Center Director, Chris Post at (877) 238-7502 or email cpost@natchitochesla.gov.

Krewe of Wag-uns Parade

On festival day, the streets of Natchitoches will be swarming with purple, green and gold.  The Krewe of Wag-uns Parade, featuring children, pets, Mardi Gras music and costumed interpreters will kick-off activities at 1 p.m.

Anyone interested in participating in the Krewe of Wag-uns parade should meet at the Bank of Montgomery parking lot, located at 814 Washington Street, at 12 pm.  Pets should be on a leash and owners must be present at all times.  No ATVs are permitted.  Golf carts are permissible if driven by an adult.  Children may ride scooters, bicycles, wagons, etc, and must be accompanied by an adult.  Decorations and candy will not be provided.  Some throws will be provided and participants are encouraged to bring their own; however, they are not required.

For more information on the Krewe of Wag-uns Parade call Arleen Mayeaux at (318) 352-5834 or the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 259-1714.

Krewe of Dionysus Parade

The Krewe of Dionysus, one of the local Mardi Gras Krewes, will host their annual Mardi Gras Parade. The parade will begin on the east side of Natchitoches in the River South Commons Shopping Center at 5:30 p.m. and continue throughout downtown Natchitoches ending at the intersection of Second Street and Church Street.

The parade consisted of approximately 40 units with 8 super floats. The floats carry costumed riders who throw trinkets, beads and candy.  Lights and music add to the excitement of the parade.  Grand marshal for the parade will be former New Orleans Saints quarterback, Bobby Hebert.

Downtown businesses will be open for meals and shopping. So stop, shop and say hello to all the shop owners and staff.

For more information about Mardi Gras events or other upcoming events, contact the Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at (800) 259-1714 or find it here at www.natchitoches.net.