While colorful lasers cut through a warm clear sky, the largest crowd in local Mardi Gras history enjoyed the 9th annual Fat Tuesday celebration along University Avenue just west of the Hillcrest sign. The festive party featured a boat load of talented drag queens including superstar Jackie Beat; the hilarious Chico’s Angels (at right) who wowed the appreciative crowd; the Dreamgirls; and hometown favorites, Tootie & the Lips Girls.
As predicted, this year’s VIP tickets sold out prior to the event, but general admission tickets were available for $20 into the evening. Nearly 3,000 
revelers created a diverse mosaic as the community came together for a fun evening collecting beads, dancing and eating & drinking to excess. Complimentary beignets were served by the Big Easy located at 127 University Avenue. (FYI…enjoy their sweet treats for free this weekend with the purchase of a cup of coffee).
Organized by the GSDBA Foundation and the Hillcrest Business Association, Mardi Gras proceeds again benefit LGBT youth scholarships and neighborhood improvements.
Many thanks to all the volunteers who made this year’s event another great success.
