[2/18/04]Downtown Vicksburg will be awash with green, purple and gold Saturday as organizers stage two events to celebrate Mardi Gras.

First up is Downtown Vicksburg’s third annual Mardi Gras Masked Parade, including 38 floats that will roll up Washington Street.

A nightcap to the festivities will be the Mardi Gras ball from 8 until midnight at Vicksburg Convention Center.

“It’s going to be a fun party,” said Ann Roberson, who is co-directing the ball with Molly Procell. “We just hope everybody will come out and have a good time.”

The parade is free, but the ball, while open to the public, costs $25 per person in advance or $37.50 at the door.

What has become the city’s most popular parade begins at 2:30 p.m. at Belmont and Washington streets, follows Washington Street and ends at Jackson Street.

Last year’s Mardi Gras parade drew about 4,000, making it the most well-attended of parades sponsored by the Main Street Program, said Rosalie Theobald, executive director.

The Christmas parade, sponsored by Main Street and the Vicksburg Jaycees, typically has close to 70 entries, and last year’s Mardi Gras parade had 29. The crowd at the 2003 Christmas parade was estimated to be in the thousands as well.

Each of the krewes signed up for the parade was responsible for coming up with its own float theme.

“I think it can sometimes stifle the imagination when you put a theme to a parade,” said Theobald.

In its second year, the Mardi Gras ball is black-tie optional, meaning guests can wear a tuxedo or gown if they like, but a suit or cocktail dress is acceptable.

Roberson stressed that the only requirement is that guests’ attire be festive.

“People can wear masks, beads and feather boas,” she said. “It’s really just a fun party.” Some of the Mardi Gras wear will be sold at the door.

Live music will be performed by a Mobile, Ala., band, the Tip Tops, and a cocktail buffet and cash bar will be available. Reserved seating is also available. Proceeds will benefit the Vicksburg Foundation for Historic Preservation.