Galveston highlights Mardi Gras celebrations, parades

Mardi Gras! Galveston, the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, will be held Jan. 29 to Feb. 9. This 105th Mardi Gras celebration is expected to draw more than 350,000 attendees for 30-plus concerts, 24 parades, 20 balcony parties and several elegant balls.

Concerts

Texas country star Cory Morrow will bring his rollicking, soulful, feel-good sound to Galveston during a 10:30 p.m. concert Friday, Feb. 5, on the Budweiser Stage at Saengerfest Park, located at the corner of Strand and 23rd streets.

Other musical performances include Collective Soul (Saturday, Jan. 30, at 6 p.m.) in Saengerfest Park on the Budweiser Stage; a new Sounds of New Orleans tent that will feature Zydeco music, and for lovers of electronic dance music, “Electric Mardi Gras” will return with continuous concerts, beat-thumping DJs and laser light shows on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the celebration.

Family Gras

Sunday, Jan. 31 is Family Gras at Mardi Gras! Galveston, featuring live family entertainment, two kids parades, a coloring contest and more. Donations will be taken at the gate to benefit The Sunshine Kids and Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The family friendly activities will continue Sunday, Feb. 7, with the Krewe of Barkus & Meoux pet parade and Mardi Gras Children’s Parade on the Seawall, among other events. 5K Run

The official Mardi Gras! Galveston 5K Run is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. at the Entertainment District.

Run or walk through Galveston’s Downtown Historic District and follow it up with a day of celebrations. Parades Among the main parades you can attend the following: Krewe of Maximilian Parade. Friday, Feb. 5 at 9:30 p.m. (Entertainment District)

Houston Chronicle Neauxs Krewe Parade, Saturday, Feb. 6 at 2:30 p.m. (Entertainment District)

Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade. Saturday, Feb. 6 at 6:30 p.m. (Seawall and Entertainment District)

Mardi Gras Children’s Parade. Sunday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. (Entertainment District)

Krewe of Aquarius Fat Tuesday Parade. Tue., Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Entertainment District. This grand parade, featuring marching bands, dance teams and dozens of lighted floats, will mark the final hours of Mardi Gras! Galveston.

For a full schedule of activities and admission prices, visit www.mardigrasgalveston.com.