FAIRHOPE, Ala. - Students are encouraged to wear Mardi Gras beads during the next “smart walk” to school outing in Fairhope.

Kindergarten and elementary school students and their teachers, parents and friends can participate in the March 4 event, according to a news release by Smart Coast, the nonprofit group that helped start the monthly program.

“We are happy with the enthusiastic response to our third year of walks to school,” stated Charlene Lee, Smart Coast program director. “We’re looking forward to these last three monthly walks and anticipate the program spreading to other communities around Mobile Bay.”

Lee said hundreds of children have taken part in the program.

Walkers are encouraged to wear Mardi Gras beads, sunglasses, hats, and bring noisemakers and other regalia to show the festive spirit of the Mardi Gras season.

“Fairhope families really get the message,” Lee stated. “It’s about living in a healthier, connected fashion and getting out with your community to interact.”

The walks will begin by 7:20 a.m. and take place rain or shine.

FES students will meet at 7:15 a.m. at the Fairhope Public Library, and Fairhope K-Center students will meet at 7:15 a.m. at the Fairhope Civic Center.

The ongoing Smart Walks are sponsored by Smart Coast in partnership with Baldwin County Schools and the Fairhope Planning Department.

For more information contact Charlene Lee at 928-2309 or visit www.smartcoast.org.