Los Angeles, California (February 16, 2025)- Galveston Island is gearing up for a vibrant Mardi Gras celebration from February 21 to March 4, 2025. With over 20 parades, live concerts, balcony parties, and family-friendly activities, Mardi Gras! Galveston promises an unforgettable experience. This year's festivities boast an impressive lineup of Grand Marshals, exciting entertainment, and the return of the coveted Golden Bead Prizes, offering chances to win a luxury cruise, international travel, and more.  

Grand Marshals to Lead the Celebration Mardi Gras! Galveston welcomes a diverse group of Grand Marshals to lead its signature parades:

• Mike Doherty and Kenneth Shelton: These distinguished honorees, who played a key role in reviving the Krewe Knights of Momus, will lead the George P. Mitchell Award Honoree Parade.

• Eric Berger & Matt Lanza of Space City Weather: Beloved for their reliable weather reporting in Houston, they will serve as Grand Marshals of the Ben E. Keith Parade on Saturday, March 1, at 4:00 p.m.

• CityCast Houston Podcast Hosts: Bringing their unique Houston perspective to the festivities, they will lead the lively 9:00 p.m. Parade on Friday, February 28.

Golden Bead Prizes: A Chance to Win Big! Lucky parade-goers have the chance to catch exclusive Golden Beads tossed during select parades. These beads unlock incredible prizes, including:

• Grand Prize Cruise: $1,000 towards a cruise departing from Galveston, offering an unforgettable voyage to stunning destinations.

• AeroMexico Getaway: Two roundtrip AeroMexico tickets to anywhere in Mexico, perfect for an international adventure.  

• Galveston Island Wine Festival VIP Weekend Package: VIP access to the Galveston Island Wine Festival for the ultimate wine lover's experience.

• Island Pass Adventure: Six Island Passes, valued at $1,200, granting access to Galveston's top attractions for a fun-filled island getaway.

Parade and Event Highlights

The Mardi Gras! Galveston celebration kicks off on Friday, February 21, with the Opening Night festivities, including the George P. Mitchell Award Honoree Parade and the Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade Parade.

Super Saturday, February 22, is packed with events, including the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade, the Zaniest Golf Cart Parade, the Krewe D’iHeart Media Art Car & Jeep Parade, and a live performance by Bret Michaels.

Sunday, February 23, features Fiesta Gras! with the Fiesta Gras Parade, a performance by La Fiera de Ojinaga, and the Fiesta Gras Golf Cart & Jeep Parade.  

Friday, February 28, is Salute to Texas & First Responders Day with free admission for veterans, active service members, and first responders. The day includes the Danny Weber Memorial Fire Truck Parade, the Krewe Babalu "All Krewe Parade," and a performance by the Cameron Sacky Band.  

Grand Parade Day on Saturday, March 1, is a highlight of the celebration, featuring the Ben E. Keith Parade with Space City Weather Grand Marshals, the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade, and a performance by Kevin Fowler.

Family Gras! on Sunday, March 2, offers free admission and family-friendly fun with the Shriners Hospital for Children & Sunshine Kids Parade and the Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Parade.

Finally, Fat Tuesday on March 4 concludes the celebration with the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Fat Tuesday Parade.  

Experience the Magic!

Mardi Gras! Galveston is a unique blend of Texas hospitality and vibrant carnival tradition. For tickets, parade routes, and the latest event updates, visit www.mardigrasgalveston.com.