YOUNGSVILLE, La. (KLFY) — The city of Youngsville kicked off their season today with their annual Mardi Gras Parade. The parade began at 11 a.m., with the route beginning at Chemin Metairie Road and ending on Iberia Road near the clock roundabout.

As floats came down the road, people threw beads, danced and partied. Jarron Stansbury said he and his family recently moved to Youngsville in October. He said today was not only a special moment because of the parade, but also because it is his son’s first birthday.

“I’m good, I’m straight, it’s my son’s birthday, he turned one today, so you know we excited, we’re having a lot of fun at the moment,” said Stansbury.

Stansbury’s best friend, Kendale Thomas, said he is from New Iberia, but came to the parade to see what it had to offer.

“It’s always a joy to spend time with the family, this is my best friend, but it’s like blood, we’re like family, I’m originally from New Iberia so the Youngsville Parade it’s right down the street, so it’s all love,” said Thomas.

As a part of the Mardi Gras season, the city of Youngsville is also hosting the Mardi Gras Mambo, a collegiate softball tournament. Ten teams were all selected to participate, with one of those teams being Southern University in Baton Rouge.

Softball players, Keira Tilford and Chakirrious Parker, said they are happy to embrace the culture of Mardi Gras.

“I’m not from Louisiana, I’m from California, and this is my second year experiencing this, I remember last year we were on a float, and it was so fun,” said Tilford.

Parker said, “I usually go to parades in New Orleans, so I’m really interested to see y’all do things here because y’all do things different and I’m just open to see what it’s like.”

Tilford advised people who did not yet attend any Mardi Gras activities to step outside their comfort zone and enjoy themselves.

“If you’re not feeling well and you’re in some sort of isolation I think you should just take some time to step outside, even if you’re not around people, just step outside, take a breath and enjoy yourself,” said Tilford.

For a list of upcoming parades you can attend in Acadiana, click here.

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