BEAUMONT, Texas — From parades to live music, Mardi Gras Southeast Texas has plenty of events that organizers expect will draw in a crowd.
The four-day event is set to bring in a lot of business to the Beaumont area.
The gates opened at 6 p.m. Friday. Despite the chilly temperatures, people from all over made their way to Beaumont to enjoy the rides, food, and spirit that Mardi Gras Southeast Texas has to offer.
Organizers believe the festival will draw thousands to downtown Beaumont as attendees look to enjoy an unforgettable weekend of music, food, and Mardi Gras spirit. A great deal goes into making the event successful.
“The whole festival is in our downtown, so we work really hard to make sure that downtown stays safe and clean, and then the grounds of the event center are operated by our team ” Emily Wheeler, with Beaumont Events, said. "So we're jut out there making sure everything's set up nicely and taken down nicely."
Planners started advertising Mardi Gras Southeast Texas across the state six months before the event taking place. Planning for the festival started even earlier.
Christina Lokey works with the Convention and Visitors Bureau. She feels Mardi Gras Southeast Texas is getting a positive reputation around the state.
“We have had credit card zip codes come through as far as Dallas,” Lokey said. “Many times it's not just about the five-hour drive they take, but the unique experience of being able to take and experience Mardi Gras.”
The annual festival has taken place for the past 30 years, and to organizers, it seems to get bigger each year. One sponsor anticipates this will be their biggest event yet.
“The lineup is great,” Jeff Wheeler said. “The weather is going to be great. A little cold, but nice and sunny. The stage is huge this year. We are excited to see what happens tonight and tomorrow night.”
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