Mardi Gras got off to a soggy start but there was still fun to be had on Thursday.

Over at the Carl A. Parker Multipurpose Center several lone floats sat parked as rain fell. But inside the building, there was live Cajun music playing courtesy of Bayou Sounds band, free food and drinks, some dancing and a chicken toss — all of which were part of Lamar State College Port Arthur’s Mardi Gras Party.

Couples kicked up their heels to the beat of the music, including Linda Allen, who was at the Parker Center as a volunteer. She danced her way into the gym and soon had others dancing along with her to “My Toot Toot.” Ben Stafford with LSCPA donned a blue spiked hair wig and sunglasses while he danced with wife, Laura. Kenneth and Cynthia LaCour also hit the dance floor, not missing a step.

Joey Villemez brought along the chickens used in the annual chicken toss and with the rainy weather, the event was held inside the gym. Port Arthur News’ Ed Kestler did the honors and gently released the fowl, the first of which sat right down and didn’t want to move, which was all right with Robin Chester who “caught” the chicken.

A second toss with a different chicken led to a small but quick chase.

Although LSCPA’s parade was canceled due to inclement weather, the gates downtown opened on time, according to a city official.

Schedule

Gates open at 6 p.m. Friday and close at midnight. Tickets at the gate cost $15 each.

Parade schedule

7 p.m. — Golf Cart and ATV Parade

7 p.m. — Valero Krewe of Krewes parade will begin at Rosehill and the Seawall and proceed through festival gates

 

Entertainment schedule

Main stage

7 p.m. – Mike and the Moon Pies

10:30 p.m. – Koe Wetzel

Zydeco stage

7 p.m. – Gerard Delafose & The Zydeco Gators

10:30 p.m. – Keyun & the Zydeco Masters

Green stage

6 p.m. – Crossroads

8 p.m. – Randy Balsano

10:30 p.m. – Knotch