The Bossier-based Krewe of Gemini knows how to entertain Mardi Gras lovers.
Their annual parade Saturday, themed “Gemini Loves Television,” saw float designs such as “The Flintstonesm” “Gilligan’s Island,” and “Happy Days” all march through east Shreveport.
The parade began at the corner of Clyde Fant Parkway and Lake Street in downtown Shreveport, proceeded down Clyde Fant Parkway and turned onto Shreveport-Barksdale Highway, ending at the intersection of Preston Avenue and East Kings Highway near Duck Pond Park.
Their theme revolved around a commitment to be family friendly in order to share the excitement of Mardi Gras with people of all ages.
Reigning over this year's historic krewe is Brad Graff, King XXIV, and Kim Hoover, Queen XXIV. As royalty, Hoover said their job takes them beyond the parade routes each season and into the community.
Her fondest memories since joining the krewe in 2000 have come from visiting the children at Shriner’s Hospital, meeting members of the community at various events and establishing friendships along the way. Gemini’s Captain, Mary Louise Stansell, agreed, adding that there’s plenty of fun in store for local Mardi Gras fans — from the glitz and glam of royal balls until the last beads are thrown.
Krewe of Gemini is the oldest parading Krewe in the Shreveport-Bossier area and puts on the largest free show to the public. Krewe of Gemini is now in their 24th year being a premier gathering not just during the month of February, but all year round.
The Krewe of Gemini is a nonprofit volunteer organization made of people who enjoy promoting the spirit of Mardi Gras locally. The krewe began in 1989 as an idea by the Bossier Chamber of Commerce president to generate interest and revenue in the community.
The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau estimates that 400,000 people will experience Mardi Gras in Shreveport-Bossier this year.
