MANDEVILLE, LA – More than 25,000 people attended the 23rd Annual Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws Parade on Sunday, March 5, bringing in thousands of dollars for local charities and providing free, family-friendly entertainment on the Mandeville Lakefront.
Mardi Paws is the Northshore's premier dog parade, held on the Saturday after Mardi Gras each year for nearly a quarter century. Costumed canines and their human companions march for about half a mile along the lakefront, and the low $15 entry fee raises money for Scott's Wish, which provides financial assistance to people facing difficult health issues, and for the Ian Somerhalder Foundation, which promotes causes that benefit the environment and animal welfare.
"Although we're still tallying income from participants, sponsors, donors and concessions, we're excited by the success of this year's parade and we know we've raised thousands of dollars for these important causes," said Denise Gutnisky, who founded Mardi Paws 23 years ago. "We're grateful for the cooperation of the City of Mandeville and local businesses, which also benefit from the incredible crowds we draw each year."
Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser reigned as 2017 Celebrity Grand Marshal along with his wife Cher, and one of their dogs, Toby.
"We really enjoyed being part of such a family-friendly event that attracts thousands of people to the beautiful Mandeville Lakefront, one of the gems in our state," said Nungesser.
