Well over 1,000 area residents turned out for Wake Forest's first-ever Mardi Gras Street Festival on Saturday, Feb. 9. Sponsored by the Town of Wake Forest, this free, family-friendly event was designed to showcase the new and improved South White Street in historic downtown Wake Forest and bring together our entire community for a one-of-a-kind celebration.
The Mardi Gras Street Festival offered fun-filled activities for children and adults, including a children’s parade, face painters, strolling entertainers, live music, inflatables, entertainment, games and much more.
Children's Parade and King & Queen Costume Contest
One of the highlights of the festival was the Mardi Gras Children’s Parade led by Freddie Greene and percussionists from the Wake Forest-Rolesville High School Band. Hundreds of participants flexed their creative muscles by dressing up in their best Mardi Gras garb, making a mask, and taking advantage of the free face painting that was offered in the town hall lobby.
Dozens of children ages 12 and younger also participated in the King & Queen Costume Contest prior to the start of the Children's Parade. The contest winners were Skyla Woodard, age 6, from Raleigh, and Nolan Heinrich, age 8, also of Raleigh. Skyla and Nolan were appointed the grand marshals of the children's parade and rode in a horse and carriage at the head of the procession.
Best Mask Contest
Several art studios in downtown Wake Forest offered mask making workshops during Art After Hours on Friday evening, Feb. 8, in preparation for a "Best Mask Contest" held as part of Saturday's festivities. Prizes were awarded in three categories: ages 13 and under; ages 14-18; and ages 18 and over. Best Mask Contest winners were Jordan Jamison, age 10, from Wake Forest; Taylor Sferrazzo, age 17, of Wake Forest; and Julianne Rowan, also of Wake Forest.
Thanks to everyone who participated in the Mardi Gras Street Festival!