So here it is another Saturday on floor at the office and the streets of Benicia are beginning to be roped off for a Mardi Gras parade on April 28th. How does that happen? Well Benicia loves a parade! Any excuse for fun and festivity, and Benicians are there. Naming it the Gold & Gumbo Parade with a definite Mardi Gras theme brought out the crowds on Saturday morning.

Parade participants lined up early enough for the event to kick off promptly at 11:00 AM. Forty-five minutes later the last of the many colorful participants had passed by; throwing the numerous treasures that pleased the crowd. Children of all ages were covered in garlands of jewel tone beads and necklaces. Coldwell Banker Solano Pacific passed out the traditional free popcorn to the masses, and a good time was had by all. I've attached a few photos for you to enjoy the good time we shared. Does any other town get this excited about a parade??? I swear I think we must have almost a dozen or so throughout the year. The funny part is they never get old. I think that's part of our Benicia charm.

Of course the fun doesn't just stop there. At noon the festival began in City Park and lasted all day long. Shopping, games and good food. What could be better on a beautiful Spring day?