*In best Professor Farnsworth voice* Good news, everyone! The Mardi Gras Parade is officially back!
 
We confirmed the news earlier this week with the band tasked with keeping the parade moving. Local percussionist-about-town Dylan Bassett has been gathering a crew of musicians in his studio this month for rehearsals to ensure the parade happens.
 

2017 Mardi Gras Parade / Photo by Fally Afani
This is one of the most joyous musical expressions in Lawrence, and became a staple after Truckstop Honeymoon’s Mike and Katie West introduced it to the community. The parade persevered even after the band’s departure to Wales, continuing right up until the pandemic shutdown.
 
That’s right, the last time the parade officially happened was in 2020, about a month before the shutdown, with many unsuspecting Lawrencians unaware of how much their lives would change in just a month. COVID vaccines emerged in 2021, but not in time for a parade. In 2022, a small gathering was held with a modest stroll down Mass. But 2023 is our year! The Mardi Gras Parade will be back in full force!
 
Anyone wanting to take part can gather in front of Lucia (RIP Aimee’s, you were a great parade starting point for many years, much respect) promptly at noon on Tuesday, February 21!

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Fally Afani is an award-winning journalist with a career spanning more than 20 years in media. She has worked extensively in radio, television, newspapers, magazines, and more.

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