It's Mardi Gras Time! Tips for taking Children to the Parades

Here in the Panhandle, we’re gearing up to celebrate Mardi Gras.  It’s a pretty family-friendly event, and people enjoy coming out to the parades with their children to enjoy seeing the floats and catching some beads.  Of course, when you add children to the mix it’s best to be prepared!  Here are a few tips to make your Mardi Gras a success:

1. Wear layers.  Even if it’s warm when the parades start, it could start to get cold by the time they are over, especially if you are in a shady area.  Bring things that are easy to take off and put on so you can stay comfortable.
2. Bring sunscreen.  It’s not hot yet, but that sun is still shining!  Be sure to make sure you and your little ones are wearing sunscreen so you don’t feel the burn later!
3. Bring plenty of drinks and snacks.  We always pack a cooler full of drinks and snacks when we go to the parades.  Depending on where you are, food may or may not be available for purchasing.  Most places have limited menus during this time, so even if you find something it may not be very healthy.  We like to pack fruit, crackers and peanut butter, and other relatively healthy snacks.  Not only do we have food right when we want it, but it saves money as well!
4. Try to set up near restrooms.  Now where the restrooms are, and try to take your child before they HAVE to go.  Lines can be long!  This will be the first year that Little Miss won’t be in a diaper for the festivities – it could be interesting! 
5. Be prepared to walk.  Parking can be difficult, and you may find yourself walking a long way.  We have a wagon that we load up with Little Miss and all of our gear and that works out well.  It has all-terrain tires, so navigates just about anything! 
6. Bring chairs.  It’s not necessary, but chairs are so nice to have!  We carry ours, since we have everything else in the wagon. 

Have fun and be safe!  Make sure your children have a good idea of where you are, so if you get separated for some reason they’ll know how to get back.  Maybe point out a store where you can meet if that happens.