Rockport Area Happenings

Now celebrating its 15th year, the annual La Mardi Gras fundraising celebration is once again fast approaching and that means one of the most popular Mardi Gras celebrations outside of New Orleans, Texas style! Held every year since its inception at the Lamar Volunteer Fire Department Station, just 9 miles from the heart of Rockport along the Lamar Peninsula, this family-friendly celebration raises funds to help support the costs required to run the volunteer fire department including training, equipment and the operations of the facilities.

This year’s La Mardi Gras takes place starting Friday, February 10th from 5pm to 11pm and continues on Saturday from 10am to 11pm with celebrations promising to live up to the excitement and entertainment of previous years by putting on a fun-filled, festive few days of fundraising. As usual, food and beverages will be available throughout the weekend and includes favorites like BBQ pork ribs, fried shrimp and seafood, red beans and rice and what would a Mardi Gras celebration be without the staple dishes gumbo and jambalaya, both of which will be abundantly available at a variety of locations throughout the festival grounds and event.

Friday's La Mardi Gras Events

Friday evening kicks off with live music and the vote for the 2017 La Mardi Gras king and queen followed by the ever popular Chinese Auction where $1.00 provides you with the chance to win incredible prizes and the casino that will be open between 6pm and 11pm that also includes the casino auction.

La Mardi Gras' Saturday Schedule

Saturday morning things get off to an excellent start with food and beverages available from 10 o’clock on followed by the main attraction, the La Mardi Gras parade full of floats and revelry where you can snag a few souvenirs and even try to catch a string or two of colorful beads! The Chinese Auction continues throughout the day with the big draw taking place at 8pm as does the casino that will present its auction draws at 10:45 to close out the day. Also, don’t forget to stop by the live auction from 6 to 7 and bid for your favorite items. Remember to bid high since all the proceeds go to the Lamar VFD!

Many of us here at Rockport Properties have fond memories of attending all of the La Mardi Gras celebrations over the years (and some not too clear memories if we must admit) and are looking forward to another fun time on the Coastal Bend. What are some of your favorite memories of past La Mardi Gras festivities? Are you planning on going to this year’s celebration? Let us know…we’d love to hear from you!