by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer
PASS CHRISTIAN (GG) — Pass Christian? More like Party Christian!
As Mardi Gras made its way toward the coastal town on Sunday, February 15th, cars with tags from Louisiana to Florida, with even a Georgian Peach in the mix, lined Scenic Drive for the 96th annual St. Paul’s Carnival Association (SPCA) Parade in downtown Pass Christian. The party began long before the parade rolled at noon, with attendees gearing up with food and fun, locking down prime throw territory. For those who arrived right on time, a thirty-minute walk through a sea of glittering faces awaited.
The St. Paul’s Carnival Association (SPCA) Parade was one of three that took place on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Sunday, but its presence was unmistakable. From sidewalks to balconies, the crowd was ecstatic, waving grandly as decorated floats rolled past. Beads flew alongside heart-shaped throws, a subtle nod to a weekend split between romance and revelry.
Leading the way was the St. Paul’s Carnival Association’s familiar royalty, King Christian XCVI Andy Purchner and Queen Christiana 2026 Natasha French, setting the tone for a day steeped in tradition and celebration.
Amidst the partying crowd, Pass Christian’s Ward 3 Alderman Kirk Kimball was found giving high praise to the event.
“This year’s St. Paul’s Carnival Association ‘Pass Parade’ was a success. I’d like to give a special thank you to our Mississippi Public Safety Commissioner, Sean Tindell, for allowing the use of the state’s resources. Thank you to Harrison County Sheriff Matt Haley, who offered his deputies and resources. We appreciate all of the first responders who came to assist us from many municipalities across the state. Pass Christian Police Chief Freeman and Pass Fire Chief Woodman did an excellent job helping us logistically plan the event and providing their services and support. Pass Christian Public Works Director Kirk Ladner and his staff worked tirelessly before, during, and after the parade, along with Beautification Director Brad Manus with his team, who made the City parade-ready. Lastly, thank you to all the residents of Pass Christian who made all the visitors feel welcomed and showed them how the good times roll.”
Pass Christian Police Chief Daren Freeman echoed the sentiment, noting that the large crowd was managed without any serious incidents.
“We had 8 misdemeanor arrests, 2 motor vehicle accidents and 1 DUI arrest. Overall the event was a success. We did not have any serious injuries or major incidents occur. We can’t thank the outside Agencies enough for their assistance because we couldn’t have done it without them.”
From love in the air on Saturday to beads on Sunday, the weekend was one for the books, full of tradition, teamwork, and just the right amount of sparkle. Mardi Gras proved to be Pass Christian’s Valentine.
(Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette)
