Mardi Gras Float Riders Spending Big for Festivities

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – The excitement of Mardi Gras weekend has enveloped Baton Rouge, as float riders prepare for the festivities by stocking up on colorful throws and decorations. Local businesses like Parties Start Here on Perkins Road are buzzing with activity as shoppers fill their carts with beads and trinkets in anticipation of the celebrations.

Owner Nelson Maddox noted the influx of customers, stating, “This is always one of the best times. Mardi Gras and then St. Patrick’s Day. When I arrived this morning, there were already 10 cars waiting in the parking lot for last-minute purchases.” He added that while turnout is typically high, this year’s numerous parades have drawn even larger crowds.

Danielle Harris, a second-time rider in the Spanish Town Parade, expressed concern about her spending. “This alone right here will be $200 just that, $75 for the cups, $40 for the beads depending on size, but we already bought $300-$400 worth, so it totals about $700 in beads, plus expenses for the float and being out there all day,” she said.

Another parade veteran, Clayton Mitchell, is with the Krewe of Boyd on one of the oldest floats. He highlighted the cultural significance of Mardi Gras: “It’s a fun day and this is what Louisiana is about. People participate across all of South Louisiana.” This year, Mitchell is spending nearly $2,000 on throws, reflecting the increased costs over the years. “Twenty-five years ago, it was just a lot cheaper. Now with inflated prices, it hasn’t stopped people from filling the floats each year,” he added.

Float rider Carolyn Cangelosi shared her own spending woes while prepping for the Southdown’s parade. “We buy hula hoops and stuffed animals, so we might have gone a little overboard, but it’s worth it,” she stated, revealing her total expenditure exceeded $1,000.

Despite rising costs, riders remain optimistic, knowing that the joy of Mardi Gras and camaraderie among participants outweigh financial concerns.

Mardi Gras significantly impacts Baton Rouge’s economy. Data from Visit Baton Rouge indicated that last year, hotel occupancy peaked at over 73%, with anticipations of even higher numbers this year. Visitor spending for the Spanish Town weekend also saw a year-on-year boost of around 5% in restaurants and retail shops.

As festival-goers take to the streets clad in beads and vibrant costumes, the spirit of Mardi Gras continues to thrive in this Louisiana city, promising a weekend of joy and togetherness amid financial choices.