Mardi Gras revelers flock to Downtown Mobile before sunrise for Fat Tuesday

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Hours before any parade rolled through the streets of downtown Mobile, many locals set up their lawn chairs, snuggled up in blankets at 7 a.m.

“Because it’s Mardi Gras!!!” Screamed Dr. Shelly Bates as her friend, Johnelle Kelly chimed in, “Yes…to get a good spot!”

They were two of those who showed up bright and early for the fun, playing lots of good music to keep them awake. When asked their thoughts on the Super Bowl halftime show after playing Usher and Alicia Keys, Kelly said, “It was great. My knees still hurt from dancing.”

“Can’t nobody do it like Alicia Keys. She’s epic,” Bates added.

I caught up with a couple of other early birds, including some who came to the Port City from Baldwin County for ONE thing.

“Moon pies. I love moon pies,” said Luke Garrett.

Others were eager for something else -- “Catching beads,” said little Kalynn Wade.

With so many kids in attendance, some parents like Haylee Hanks went the extra mile to ensure her little one stayed safe. Hanks brought their baby crib along to the parade.

“It’s Fat Tuesday, anything goes,” said Hanks.

She and her husband are among the many people who say celebrating Fat Tuesday in Mobile is an annual tradition.

“I’ve been coming here all my life, ever since I can remember. I love it here,” said Larry Bartlett.

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