Where should you set up to see enjoy local Mardi Gras parades?

It’s turning purple, green and gold along the Alabama Coast and that means just one thing: Mardi Gras season.

Get your nets and baskets ready as the good times start rolling at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 2, with the area’s first parade, the Krewe de la Dauphine on Dauphin Island.

The following Saturday, Feb. 9, brings two more Dauphin Island parades: the People’s Parade at 1 p.m., followed by the kids’ Krewe of Riviere du Chien parade on St. Andrews Loop at 2 p.m.

Mobile parades begin Friday, Feb. 15, with the Conde Cavaliers. Many more parades roll during the next couple of weeks, including the Pharaohs on Feb. 16, Order of Polka Dots on Feb. 21 and Maids of Mirth on Feb. 23.

Other cities along Alabama’s Coastal Connection also host parades during the Carnival season. Fairhope, home of the Knights of Ecor Rouge, kicks off its celebrations on Saturday, Feb. 23.

Orange Beach hosts the Mystical Order of Mirams parade on Friday, March 1. The next day features the Foley Parade at 11 a.m., then the Shadow Barons parade is slated for 6 p.m. in Daphne.

This year, a new event – the Krewe du Cirque – is set for 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, at OWA in Foley.

Fat Tuesday (March 5) parades continue the tradition, with the Gulf Shores Parade rolling at 10 a.m. and the Orange Beach Parade at 2 p.m.

For a full schedule, check out the Mobile Mask website.

The lineup offers plenty of opportunities for catching beads, moon pies, go-cups and all the throws your heart desires. Mark your calendar now and get ready to let the good times roll!