Plaucheville Elementary School will roll out the beads and celebrate Mardi Gras with its 2026 Mardi Gras parade on Friday, Feb. 13, beginning at 1:30 p.m. The parade will start at the school, with line-up beginning at 12:30 p.m.

School officials announced the Avoyelles Parish School Board IT Department will serve as the 2026 Parade Grand Marshals. Honorees include Becky Spencer, Kenya Chavez and Alex Frank, recognized for their continued behind-the-scenes support of students, staff and schools across the parish.

Pre-checkout forms will be sent home Friday, Feb. 6, and must be returned by Thursday, Feb. 12. All student check-outs after the parade will run through the car rider line only, with students released from the gymnasium.

No check-outs will be allowed through the school office after the parade.

Local businesses interested in participating in the parade are encouraged to contact Ron Washington at ron.washington@avoyellespsb.com or (318) 269-0828.

Kids’ Mardi Gras parade planned Feb. 14 in Echo

St. Frances de Sales Church will host a Mardi Gras Children’s Extravaganza on Saturday, Feb. 14, inviting families from Echo and surrounding communities to enjoy a full day of Mardi Gras fun designed especially for children.

Activities will begin with sign-up at 10 a.m., and children must be registered by 11 a.m. to participate in the day’s activities. The parade lineup is set for 1 p.m., followed by float judging at 2 p.m. with the parade rolling at 3 p.m., following a traditional chicken run.

Organizers note that ATVs and horses will not be allowed and all floats must be decorated to participate in the parade. A $20 entry fee applies for floats, with cash prizes awarded for Best Float and a prize paddle for second place.

Food will also be available throughout the day, including all-you-can-eat gumbo for $10 per bowl, as well as hot dogs and hamburgers.

The event will be held at 104 Echo St. in Echo. Community members are encouraged to bring the family and enjoy a festive Mardi Gras celebration centered on children, tradition and fellowship.

For more information, contact Brian Hickman at (318) 794-3982, Angela Hickman at (318) 290-4470, Austin Ducote at (318) 264-2816, or Kerstion Ducote at (318) 305-9974.