The much anticipated Mardi Gras season has arrived. On February 17th the Lafayette Mardi Gras parade will travel through the streets of downtown Lafayette, in celebration of Fat Tuesday. Although that day is weeks away, the official first day of the season kicked off on Tuesday with a traditional flag raising ceremony in Lafayette.

“It’s just the official kick off where the people who worked so hard to put this together all year long, this is the beginning where the fun part begins. They still work hard but now the fruition of their work comes to pass.” said Lafayette city Parish President Joey Durel

Durel says he has enjoyed riding in the Mardi Gras parades for the past twelve years. Now he’s looking forward to watching the parade from the other side with his family. Durel is finishing his final term as city-parish president.

“It’s my last parade as city parish president, we’ll continue to bring our family to the parades obviously. We’ll bring all the kids and grand kids as a farewell to Lafayette for giving us this opportunity for the past twelve years .” said Durel

The Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association President Cliff Lane says his group works year round to prepare for the Mardi Gras season in Lafayette.

“We are currently putting together what we feel like will  be a fantastic Mardi Gras. A very family friendly Mardi Gras that will be fun for everyone including the people who come into Lafayette for the occasion.” said Lane