Mardi Gras Mania hits Pensacola Beach
BY LISA NEWELL Gulf Breeze News lisa@gulfbreezenews.com

By now, the krewes have readied their floats and the throws are at the ready for the big Mardi Gras Weekend on Pensacola Beach.

The early date didn't dampen the island's enthusiasm for the event which will bring thousands of revelers to the island for different activities, including the annual Double Bridge Run on Saturday and the Krewe of Wrecks parade on Sunday.

"We're squeezing everything in," said Sandy Johnston, Executive Director of the Pensacola Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Those who are experiencing Mardi Gras for the first time should be patient as there are usually traffic delays, watch your alcohol intake as deputies will be patrolling, park safely to avoid having your automobile towed away, and bring snacks, drinks, seats and umbrellas to accommodate everyone in your crowd, especially youngsters.

Here's a list of some of the activities for all to enjoy:

Saturday, Feb. 2:

Street Dance at Sandbar -- following the Krewe of Wrecks Breakfast.

Double Bridge Run - The 2008 race kicks off Mardi Gras weekend on the Beach.

Sunday, Feb. 3:

Island Steel Drum Band -- PensaCola Steel performs live at Crabs Sunday Brunch from noon 'til 3 p.m.

Mardi Gras Parade -- starts at 2 p.m. Route goes from SpringHill Suites west on Via De Luna to Sidelines, where they turn into Casino parking lot.

Post-Parade Party at the Sandshaker, featuring the Astronauts, begins after the Beach Mardi Gras Parade.

Monday, Feb. 4

Red Beans & Rice --Served under the tent in the Casino Beach Parking lot from 11 a.m. 'til. Free of charge.

Tuesday, Feb. 5:

Krewe of Coma Coronation at the Sandshaker. The Sandshaker's Final Mardi Gras Party starts at 6pm. Krewe of Coma Coronation followed by Lighted Hat Parade, with a prize for the most original lighted hat !