AUGUSTA, Ga () – Mardi Gras is only a few days away and Augusta is giving members of the community many ways to celebrate.

Dozens lined the streets of downtown Augusta in anticipation for the Mardi Gras parade.

Lucy C. Laney High School kicked off the parade.

Community members lined the streets decked out in purple, gold and green excited for the festivities to finally begin.

Tiffany Henry, Augusta resident says, “Being from the south and not being able to get to New Orleans all the time, this was really nice to see.” 

There was a mobile petting zoo, many jeeps and corvettes, floats and princess Tiana and Sleeping Beauty even made a special appearance.

With many different clubs represented residents Pierre Lamont and Tiffany Henry say what their favorite parts of the parade were.

“I really loved all of it but the skaters, those really topped it for me.” Lamont says.

Henry says her favorite part was, “Watching the little girls dance, and definitely the motorcycles.” 

Mardi Gras has been celebrated throughout the country for hundreds of years and the community members of Augusta are excited to be a part of it.

“The colors, it’s festive, it’s a good time. We love to dance and have a good time.” Henry says.

Lamont, Mardi Gras and carnival enthusiast says the turnout for the parade was amazing.

“I’m pleasantly surprised in Augusta’s pride for Mardi Gras.” Lamont says.

The parade ended with some of our first responders.

If you missed the parade, there will be other events happening all weekend long.