Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — Laissez les bons temps rouler Gulf Shores. The city is going to "Let The Good Times Roll". Gulf Shores is poised for a significant expansion of its Mardi Gras celebrations following a recent informal special work council session focused on parade proposals and the future of long-standing local traditions.

Mayor Craft's opening statement emphasized that the meeting was to consider a Saturday night parade but would "NOT preclude a Tuesday morning parade".

The central theme of the session was the proposal to introduce a Saturday night Mardi Gras parade, a move organizers believe will revitalize the season and attract greater participation. The Pleasure Island Revelers, a non-profit organization, proposed a Saturday, January 23rd parade, aiming to draw families and working professionals who may be unable to attend traditional weekday morning events.

Proponents argue that adding a Saturday night event—featuring lighted floats and community engagement—will not replace the traditional Fat Tuesday parade, but rather expand the local Mardi Gras season. Supporters noted that this approach could help Gulf Shores compete with surrounding areas that see significantly higher parade attendance, while also avoiding scheduling conflicts with events in Orange Beach.

While enthusiasm for the new Saturday proposal is high, city officials and community members emphasized their strong commitment to preserving the historic Fat Tuesday parade. The Fat Tuesday event, a 47-year tradition, remains highly valued for its economic impact and cultural significance.

Some final questions remain before a finalized plan is released: How much control will the city have over the event? What will be the exact route map of each parade? What will the increased cost be for the events and who will pay for those?

City officials noted that the Saturday night proposal will undergo careful review, and that any further expansion of the event would require future council approval. As the city looks toward the 2027 season, the council remains focused on ensuring that both the established tradition of Fat Tuesday and the proposed Saturday event are managed in a way that prioritizes public safety and community benefit.

APPROVED:

In the following council meeting, the City Council approved Resolution 7161, a memorandum of understanding with the Pleasure Island Revelers Mardi Gras crew to support a parade scheduled for Saturday, January 23rd.