By Shannon Wright
More than 26 years ago a small-town pastor had the idea for a wholesome Mardi Gras parade to be led by the church and held right in their own community.
That idea sparked what is now the 26th Annual Doyline United Methodist Church Mardi Gras parade that is hosted by the Lake Bistineau State Park each year.
The ladies of the church have kept this tradition alive by word of mouth for more than a quarter of a century.
Vicky Pullig remembers when it first began.
“It was just, more or less, a lawnmower parade with kids on bikes,” she said.
Since then, it has grown into quite a production – some years more than others. There have been firetrucks, classic cars, boats on trailers, home-made trailers, golf carts, four-wheelers, alligators on scooters, El Karubah Shriners in their mini-cars, riding clubs on horses, political figures of Webster Parish and the Webster Parish Library participates as well.
The parade is led by walkers to keep the pace of the parade slow then followed by the Webster Parish Fire District Three in Doyline. But it takes on a mind of its own since there is no registration, per se.
People are encouraged to be a part of the parade if they would like. Just show up on the morning of the parade at the Rally Site for float decorating.
Their motto is “if it rolls, it’s a float”. However, they do allow horses, but they bring up the rear, for obvious reasons.
Tanya Loftin is often one of the lead walkers who carries the banner and keeps the parade’s pace. “Walking the parade route and really getting to see the joy on everyone’s faces is priceless,” Loftin said.
This parade is a family-friendly parade – a safe and fun atmosphere for adults and kids. Many people reserve their campsites for the weekend and decorate their campsite areas, as well.
The parade will roll promptly at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 1 at Lake Bistineau State Park through the campsite area. Revelers are encouraged to come early and find an empty campsite, set up their spot and enjoy the day.
Everyone is welcome to join for fellowship and a potluck dinner provided by the ladies of the church in the Rally Pavilion after the parade.
