GULF SHORES, AL - The words “Mardi Gras” bring many images to mind — colorful floats, moon pies and beads, sequined ball gowns, jazz bands marching as they send scintillating notes into the air... Traditions of Mardi Gras run deep and organizations spend plenty of time and money to make each year’s festivities memorable.

But if you’re in the mood for a more laid-back approach, you might check out Saturday’s parade down the main campground road of Gulf State Park.

Anyone is welcome to join the parade, and no floats or fancy vehicles are required. Bicycles, cars, walkers and most any form of parade participation will be welcome, according to Brittney Bagley, Gulf State Park Special Events Manager.

Interested participants need only arrive with a few throws at 11:30 a.m. to line up at the Park’s camper storage area, she said.

You can view the full season's schedule of Baldwin & Mobile Mardi Gras Parades HERE

Gulf State Park Superintendent Lisa Laraway explained the relaxed atmosphere of the fourth annual event.

“We don’t want to oversell it because it is pretty simple: random cars, bikes, four wheelers, etc., and no floats, maybe some walkers that go down the main road and throw beads, trinkets and candy,” she said. “It’s nothing fancy but the campers love it.”

She said the Park offers a simple option for those who want to join in the season’s fun, without all the planning, stress, and financial obligations.

“The campers wanted to do something they could participate in and not have to pay fees and put too much work into it,” she said. “The snowbirds love Mardi Gras and ... we might have something bigger each year. For now it’s just a simple way to spend an afternoon at our campground.”

The parade will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday on the Gulf State Park’s main campground road. The public is welcome to participate or watch the parade.

For more information, email brittney.bagley@dcnr.alabama.gov or call 948-7275 extension 2127. Gulf State Park is located at 20115 Alabama Highway 135, Gulf Shores. For more information on the Park, visit AlaPark.com.