DECATUR-Prepare for the much-anticipated return of North Alabama’s beloved Mardi Gras-style celebration as the Carnegie Visual Arts Center brings back its thirteenth annual Carnegie Carnival on February 10, 2024. Downtown Decatur embraces the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras as this event promises a day filled with parades, culinary delights, entertainment, and family-friendly activities, all while championing the cause of art and creativity. Moreover, the carnival serves as a significant fundraiser benefiting various arts and non-profit organizations in Decatur and Morgan County.
The festivities commence at 7 a.m. with the Carnival Frolic, featuring a 13.1-mile race, relay
team competitions, and a 5k run through the historic districts, along the picturesque Tennessee River, and into Point Mallard Park. Registration for the Carnival Frolic is available via the signup page on the Carnegie Carnival website.
For the younger attendees, the Carnival Midway sponsored by Mosaic Mentoring kicks off at 11:00 a.m. at the Decatur Morgan County Farmers Market on 1st Avenue. Kids can engage in carnival-style games and win exciting prizes, with each activity requiring tokens available for purchase on-site—10 coins for $5 or 25 coins for $10. Additionally, the Carnival Creation Station, sponsored by Kiwanis of Decatur, offers free hands-on art projects for children, also located at the Farmers Market.
At The Brick, attendees can enjoy the spirited atmosphere of “Mardi Grass” starting at noon, featuring live music and an assortment of delectable dishes and drinks. This family-friendly event is free to attend during food service hours, with expenses only for food and drinks.
The day continues with the Carnival Prince and Princess Parade sponsored by CASA of North Alabama at 12:30 p.m., where local children and teens parade on foot, bike, and float through Founders Park to 2nd Avenue, culminating at the Farmer’s Market on 1st Avenue. The coronation for the Prince and Princess follows at 2 p.m. at the Princess Theatre.
Furry friends take the spotlight at 2:30 p.m. as dogs of all sizes, dressed in their finest Mardi Gras attire, embark on a vibrant parade through historic downtown Decatur. Before the canine parade, the Carnegie Carnival 2024 Sir Bow Wow and Lady Barks-a-Lot will be crowned! Proceeds from the parade benefit Decatur Animal Services.
The Canines on Parade is currently accepting registrations that are available for $10 plus $5 for each additional dog. You can register your pets for the parade here. Registration will also be accepted the day of the event starting at 12:00 p.m.
Later in the afternoon at 3:00 p.m., head back to the Princess Theatre for a complimentary screening of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog presented by the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.
The pinnacle of the day arrives with the Carnegie Carnival Parade, commencing at 6 p.m.
Crewes will march through the streets in traditional Mardi Gras style, showcasing themed floats, costumes, throws, and lively music. The parade route winds along Bank Street, Lee Street, and 2nd Avenue. Secure your spot early for optimal viewing pleasure, and immediately following the parade, witness the coronation of King XIII and Queen XIII at the Princess Theatre.
Throughout Carnegie Carnival, downtown restaurants and merchants will be open, offering an array of locally crafted and unique items for festival-goers to explore. In line with the eco-friendly spirit, parade attendees are encouraged to participate in the Catch and Release bead-recycling program, supporting the initiative to collect and recycle beads from past Carnegie Carnival parades in collaboration with the Decatur City Schools Developmental Program.
For those eager to partake in a sweet treat, don’t miss the Cake Shake on Friday, Feb. 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Princess Theatre. Join Queen Lindsey Faulkner, Queen Holly Whitt, King Doug Maze, and King Wade Dinsmore for an evening filled with an assortment of cakes, dancing to the tunes of Lydia Britton and the Royal Family, and a cash bar.
For additional details, please visit www.carnegiecarnival.org, follow Carnegie Carnival on Facebook and Instagram, or contact the Carnegie Visual Arts Center at 256.341.0562.
Media Release/Danielle Gibson, President & CEO/Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
