GOACC’s Mardi Gras festivities underway

The Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce held their 9th Annual Mardi Gras Grande Ball at the VFW on Hwy. 87 in Orange. The members of the 13 krewes, dressed in their finest Mardi Gras attire, were in attendance.

This year’s theme is “Wonders of the World,” and Randy and Kathy Brown were named the King and Queen of this year’s Mardi Gras festivities.

The parade, to be held on at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, is free and open to the public. It will start on the corner of Green Ave. and Simmons Drive in Orange, and will wind it’s way through historical streets in downtown Orange.

The parade will showcase the dukes, duchesses and the new 2012 King and Queen, the Browns. Many local businesses and political candidates will join the 13 krewes in the parade. Each float will be illuminated and decorated to celebrate this much anticipated event.

The community is encouraged to come out and enjoy Historic Downtown Orange and the spirit of Mardi Gras.