Mardi Gras is a go in the City of Lake Charles, and it begins today, Jan. 6, at 5:30 p.m. The Honorable Mayor Nic Hunter will officially open the season on the steps of the Lake Charles Civic Center and lead the Second Line Parade around the grounds. The public is invited to attend.

“People are ready for it,” said Anne Monlezun, Mardi Gras Museum Board president. “This is a Mardi Gras kickoff everyone will enjoy.”

The original 12th Night Krewe of Revelers, the reigning 12th Night King and Queen and their Royal Court of lords and ladies will be sporting their purple, green and gold, along with the Parade of the Krewe Flags with area Krewes presenting their court of arms.

Billy Rose and his Dixieland Band will bring the right music to make the atmosphere lively.

Friday, Jan. 7 at 7 p.m. more festivities commence at the Lake Charles Civic Center Coliseum with the Costumed Parade of the Krewes and entertainment.

Admission fee is $5 per person and entitles the guests to a Mardi Gras “Hankie” to wave during the 12th Night Second Line to be staged on the floor of the Civic Center.

Dancing music from Swamp Pop to well-known dance favorites will be provided by T.J. Gautreaux and Louisiana Soul for this special 12th Night Celebration themed, “A Night at the Museum Live.”

Food booths around the edge of the floor will be open to all and the public is invited to take photos after the event with Mardi Gras royalty. Krewes and dignitaries will be dressed formally. Attendees will be in dressy casual attire.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Ticket locations include Uniformly Fit, Party Time Store, Joseph’s Electric and Adventure Point (Sulphur). Navarre Auto Group and Phillips 66 are sponsors.

The Street Dance scheduled for Saturday night has been cancelled due to the forecast, an 80 percent chance of rain, according to Craig Guillory, dance event organizer.