The Parade of Fools makes its way down Dickson Street

Staff photo

If you’re not careful, Mardi Gras is going to sneak up on you this year.

The festivities are coming a bit early in 2016, with the annual parade planned for Saturday, Feb. 6, and Fat Tuesday set for Feb. 9 on Dickson Street.

The fun begins with the Fat Saturday Parade of Fools, featuring floats by several area krewes and businesses making their way from the Fayetteville square down to Dickson Street beginning at 2 p.m. The parade is a family-friendly event, led this year by KNWA chief meteorologist Dan “Weather Dan” Skoff.

On Fat Tuesday, revelers will meet up at 7 p.m. at Farrell’s Lounge on Dickson Street, and will crown the royalty of the Demented Krewe of Dickson at around 8 p.m. After that, a pub crawl led by Billy Zydeco Band will visit several bars along the street starting at 8:30 p.m.

Organizers are still seeking groups who’d like to build a float or walk in this year’s parade. New krewes are always welcome as well.

For a bit more information about the local festivities, visit fayettevillemardigras.com.