The Red River District will let the good times roll this Saturday, February 7, from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM as SPAR and the City of Shreveport throw the first Pre-Parade Party of the Mardi Gras season. Partygoers will enjoy food, music, and street entertainers as well as browse through Louisiana-themed products offered by local vendors in the Mardi Gras Market.
“Downtown will be full of people, locals and visitors alike, enjoying the African American Parade and strolling along Clyde Fant, looking at the amazing floats set to roll for the Krewe of Centaur’s parade. We want to offer one more location where visitors can get into the Mardi Gras mood, with music, food, and items for sale with that Mardi Gras flair,” says Marissa Carbine, event coordinator for the Red River District. Carbine adds, “We even have a special Red River District bead, so come down and check out the fun.”
Smooth sounds from local band “What the Funk?!” and DJ Will Rushing will fill the air while Spinner Entertainment will keep participants amused with their pin-juggling, balloon-twisting, hula-hooping, stilt-walking street performers. Kids are invited to create a craft with Mardi Gras beads and learn about Mardi Gras bead safety.
Also included in the event will be a mini “Mardi Gras Market.” Local artisans and vendors in the Red River District will be offering everything from Louisiana-Made products to Man Made Soap to FleurDeCreme Ice Cream. There will also be pralines, Mardi Gras themed wreaths and other products, as well as personalized items by Appli-K’s, recent winner of Downtown Shreveport’s PopUP Project. “The Red River District represents what Downtown Shreveport is all about,” says Chris Graham, owner of Man Made Soap. “It’s about promoting a sense of community and supporting locally owned small businesses in a fun and family-friendly environment.”
Food offerings will include mobile food vendors Jesters Catering and Rib Tip Express, along with RRD tenants Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant and Fully Stacked Bar and Grill. Bartenders at Fatty Arbuckle’s and Fully Stacked will have drink specials all day.
The Red River District is under the Texas Street Bridge, conveniently located next to the Eldorado parking garage with handicapped accessibility on both the west and east ends of the district.