Mardi Gras! Galveston Kicks Off with Parades and Honors Tutu Live Krewe

GALVESTON, Texas (Feb. 20, 2025) – Celebrations commence as Mardi Gras! Galveston dazzles with five vibrant parades from Feb. 21 to March 4, culminating on Fat Tuesday. The festivities began with the George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Parade, where the Tutu Live Krewe received the prestigious Newe Krewe Award for their significant contributions to the local Mardi Gras culture.

The award presentation took place at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 21 at The Tremont House, just ahead of the George P. Mitchell Parade. Tutu Live Krewe founder, Donna Swartz, accepted the accolade on behalf of the krewe, which includes 80 dancers and 45 supporting members known as Tiaras, Tuxedos, and Top Hats.

“Receiving the Newe Krewe Award is an honor that recognizes our krewe’s contributions to local Mardi Gras culture. It also represents the time and effort each member contributes to our krewe, to each other, and the community – whether they are practicing, networking at events, volunteering, or parading in support of our krewe mission,” Swartz stated.

Established in 2024, the Newe Krewe Award acknowledges the exciting new krewes that have emerged since 2011. The recipients are honored each year with a ceremony at The Tremont House, where their names are inscribed on a plaque displayed in the lobby.

During the 2025 Mardi Gras season, Tutu Live Krewe will participate in several themed parades, including the Krewe of Gambrinus Parade on Feb. 22, the Krewe Babalu “All Krewe Parade” on Feb. 28, the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade on March 1, and the Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade on March 4.

The Tutu dancers, women aged 25 and older, have dedicated thousands of hours to practice since August 2024 to perfect their routines. According to Swartz, new members have learned over nine choreographed dances for the upcoming parades and other events, including the 2024 Galveston Blue Santa Parade and the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Houston.

Tiaras, Tuxedos, and Top Hats play essential support roles during the parades and events. The mission of Tutu Live Krewe is to foster a sisterhood among women through inclusive practices, welcoming members of all sizes, races, and backgrounds.

“Confidence, happiness, humor, and kindness are the core values that bind us together as a krewe,” Swartz added.

The Mardi Gras festivities continue over the next two weekends, drawing visitors to enjoy elaborate costumes, festive music, and lively parades. Mike Doherty and Kenneth Shelton received the George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Award during the opening ceremony, recognizing their efforts as part of the Knights of Momus.

The Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade also took the spotlight, showcasing vibrant costumed groups carrying intricately decorated umbrellas. As festivities unfold, Galveston remains a focal point for Mardi Gras celebrations in Texas.

For a complete schedule of events and further details, visit www.mardigrasgalveston.com/parade-schedule/.