by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer

PASS CHRISTIAN (GG) — The city of Pass Christian knows how to party as all family were invited to attend this traditional 95 year old Mardi Gras event, better known as the “Pass Parade.”  The St. Paul Carnival Association (SPCA) held the event Sunday, March 2, 2025 with thousands of attendees being a part of the town.

Previously, on Friday, February 28th, St. Paul’s Carnival Association held its 95th Royal Coronation and Ball at the St. Vincent De Paul school. The event left attendees in oz, with the theme “Welcome to Emerald City.” Flying monkeys showcased their fly moves as witches made a wicked spectacle. 

First-time Mardi Gras Ball attendee Austin Comeaux stated: “It is definitely much more than I expected. I have been to many military balls, and this is much better than I expected.” He explained how the beginning of the ball differed immensely from others due to the fun atmosphere never tainted with boredom. 

All hail King Christian XCV James Butcher and Queen Christiana 2025 Rebecca Reed Koenenn! Even neighboring royalty from the Long Beach Carnival Association attended the coronation.  Long Beach Carnival Association King Scott (Nate Stiratt) expressed: “It is different to attend as a spectator. It is less stressful.” 

Following the royal spectacle, live music and dancing commenced. Hands raised, feet turned, and voices shouted as the “No Idea Band,” hailing all the way from New Orleans, entertained the crowd with classic hits. 

A good time for all! Ward 3 Alderman Kirk Kimball explained: “It is a great turnout, great for the court of Pass, and great for the carnival association. All of the funds made go back to St. Vincent De Paul, and some will be distributed to local Pass Christian charities.” The party did not stop there. On Sunday, March 2nd, Pass Christian held its annual, notorious Mardi Gras Parade. 

The Pass Christian Police Department released a statement thanking all of the other agencies assisting with public safety during the parade.  “We would like to thank the following Agencies who assisted and made our parade event successful” :

  • Harrison County Sheriff’s Department
  • Biloxi Police Department
  • Gulfport Police Department
  • Long Beach Police Department
  • Mississippi Department of Public Safety
  • Mississippi Highway Patrol & Mississippi Bureau of Investigations
  • Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
  • Mississippi Alcohol Beverage Control
  • US Customs and Border Protection
  • Hattiesburg Police Department
  • Poplarville Police Department
  • Bay St Louis Police Department
  • Waveland Police Department
  • Wiggins Police Department
  • Pass Christian Fire Department
  • Acadian Ambulance Service

There were a total number of 9 arrests during the parade, 2- Minor in Possession of Alcohol, 1 – Possession of marijuana and carrying a concealed weapon, 1- Public Drunk, 5- Disorderly conduct and simple assault.

The Pass Parade is the biggest and best Mardi Gras parade along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, attracting tens of thousands of party animals each year. The only worry is not to get hit in the face with beads and Pass Christian knows how to keep the good times rolling!

(Photos by Ezabelle Janssen & Darian Alexander)