Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!

Whether it’s ponies or the baddest bulls around, eagles or royalty, or maybe just a funny play, there’s plenty to see around the Tri-parishes this February.

Of course, it’s Mardi Gras time. We’re all wrapped up in purple, gold and green.

This issue is chock full of information on our area’s parades. The men and women in these krewes know how to throw a party – a free one at that.

Beginning with Hercules – Terrebonne’s biggest parade – on Jan. 25 through the last parade, Fat Tuesday, Feb. 5, the 12-day street party should be a memorable one.

In this month’s Gumbo, parade goers will find The Official Mardi Gras Guide, a pullout section detailing all of the krewes and parades set to roll in Terrebonne, Lafourche and St. Mary parishes. You’ll get a glimpse of the kings and queens, a rundown of the routes and a brief history of the krewe.

In addition, you’ll learn the low-down on Terrebonne Parish’s Krewe of Houmas, Lafourche’s Le Krewe Du Bon Temps and St. Mary’s Krewe of Amani.

For instance, did you know Amani has two kings and two queens this year? Or that Le Krewe Du Bon Temps is only three years old but already has grown to 300 members.

And Houmas parade captain Jackie Clement shared his second biggest fear on parade day. Here’s a hint: It’s not weather. Granted, that one is a biggie, especially for this bunch, since there’s no opportunity to reschedule the parade because of Lent.

We’ve also highlighted one King LVIII Tommy Hebert’s surprise when he was chosen a second-generation king for the Krewe of Terreanians – and crowned by his father, King XXII.

So, as you’ll see, there’s plenty to do. Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!