Mardi Gras memories of Avoyelles

Mardi Gras has long been a cherished tradition across Avoyelles Parish, bringing communities together through parades, pageantry, music and shared celebration. From town queens and kings to school festivities and nursing home parades, Carnival season has always reflected the spirit and joy of parish life. As we look ahead to Mardi Gras 2026, we take a step back in time to revisit how Avoyelles residents marked the season 40 years ago, as captured in the pages of The Marksville Weekly News, Thursday, Feb. 27, 1986. To submit any Avoyelles Parish history from the past, email photo, information and contact news@avoyellestoday.com or come by the newspaper office at 208 N. Washington St. in Marksville.

Mansura Mardi Gras royalty

Elster Scallan (left) was crowned King and Velma Scallan was crowned Queen during the Mansura Mardi Gras celebration.

Hessmer Mardi Gras royalty

Wilfred Ducote (right) was crowned King and Elda Gauthier was crowned Queen during the Hessmer Mardi Gras celebration.

Avoyelles Senior Center Mardi Gras royalty

Cliff Guillot (right) was crowned King and Grace Aymond was crowned Queen during the Avoyelles Senior Center Mardi Gras celebration in Marksville.

Moreauville Mardi Gras royalty

Whitmore Desselle (right) was crowned King and Mary Agnes Coco was crowned Queen during the Moreauville Mardi Gras celebration.

Mardi Gras at Colonial Nursing Home

Residents at Colonial Nursing Home did not let the cold weather dampen their spirits on Mardi Gras Day. Residents and employees dressed in Mardi Gras-style costumes and held their own parade inside the facility. To conclude the festivities, all gathered in the dining area to enjoy music, dancing and wine.

On Valentine’s Day, employees elected residents as Mr. and Mrs. Sweetheart. Mrs. Edna Cato, age 81, was voted Mrs. Sweetheart, and Mr. Harvey Dauzat, age 65, was voted Mr. Sweetheart. Both were presented with a crown, flowers, candy and fruit.