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Padre Island celebrates 14th annual Barefoot Mardi Gras parade

Spectators told 3News that they look forward to the exciting Coastal Bend tradition every year.

PADRE ISLAND, Texas —

Hundreds of people made their way to Padre Island to celebrate at the Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade. Everyone at the beach was decked out with beads, costumes and plenty of purple, gold and green. 

First time parade goer, Roger Waldrop says the event was nothing like he’s ever seen before. 

“I found out about it at the Stripes on the Island, and I was looking forward to coming out here and enjoying myself. I think it’s dramatic. It’s fantastic! There are all sorts of different activities and people with costumes. It’s really fun" Waldrop said.  

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The nearly one-mile-long parade route stretched from White Cap Beach to the Brisco King Pavilion. Rob Witherington says this is something his Mardi Gras crew came prepared for, and he always comes dressed for the occasion. He showed up to the parade wearing a Mardi Gras themed suit paired with matching purple, gold and green shoes.

“I’ve been coming here for eleven years to Mardi Gras. This is one of our favorite events on the island. We come at 5:30 in the morning and set up camp," Witherington said.

For him, this event is all about spending time with family. 

“Mostly, it’s about friends, family, the kids having a good time. It’s a special event,” he said.

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