ATHENS-On February 25, Athens Arts League will have its Mardi Gras Parade with a Purpose. Lowe’s is letting them use 15 buggies that groups can decorate for the theme “Fire Up The Night.” Groups push the buggies in the mini parade on Washington and Marion streets and collect canned food from spectators. The food will be donated to LCCI Food Bank.
In addition to the shopping cart floats, the block party will include a free Mardi Gras mask 
making craft and wagon decorating at High Cotton Arts, and the Athens State University Center for Lifelong Learning will host a bead-stringing booth. The parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Center with the carts, ARTHEADS, and all family friendly local organizations. All musical groups, walking groups, and individuals are encouraged to participate.
Last year the community donated about 400 cans of food. Events on February 25 will start at 5:30 with free mask and crown making for kids at High Cotton, and then the parade at 6:30.
