FAMILY-FRIENDLY MARDI GRAS ON SLATE FOR Feb 13. 2010 ST. MARYS, GEORGIA February 12, 2010

ST. MARYS, GA—Children’s rock wall climbing and baby strollers will be just as much a part of the St. Marys Mardi Gras festival as are the iconic beads and masks. Presented by the St. Marys Downtown Merchants Association, the 16th Annual Mardi Gras Festival and Parade will showcase decorated floats and dazzling costumes designed around this year’s theme “Romance Through the Ages.” Festival organizers said that the festival has always been family-oriented, contrary to its more famous counterpart in New Orleans. * * *

“St. Marys is a family kind of town,” said Roger Rillo, President the St. Marys Downtown Merchants Association. “We’ve orchestrated a parade and festival that will appeal to all ages making sure there are plenty of activities for the younger set.” * * *

A 10 a.m. parade will launch the festival followed by a full day of entertainment, arts and crafts, and amusements, all lining the St. Marys waterfront and the main street that runs through the historic district. * * *

When the sun goes down and the lights come up, adults will continue the celebration at the Mardi Gras Ball where a new King and Queen are chosen each year. Prizes will be awarded for costumes that best depict the “Romance” theme, and dance music will be provided by one of the region’s most sought after bands, A Touch of Grey. * * *

*** 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. *** Street festival with amusements that include the world’s tallest inflatable slide, bungee jumping, a climbing wall, a trackless train, and numerous arts and crafts displays

*** 10 a.m. *** Parade with lots of floats, costumes, and bead throwing

*** 12 noon *** All-day entertainment begins at waterfront stage

*** 7 p.m. *** Mardi Gras Costume Ball at J’s Restaurant & British Pub * * *
Tickets for the ball are available at the St. Marys Welcome Center and Once Upon a Bookseller in Downtown St. Marys. Beads are also available at the bookstore on days leading up to the festival.

*** For more information, call 912-882-7350 or 912-552-0072.