BEAUMONT, Texas — The start of Mardi Gras is only days away starting with the chicken toss on Thursday.
This year, organizers say it's going to be bigger and more kid friendly than ever before. Mardi Gras Southeast Texas has expanded the fun to bring in more kiddos.
"The fundraising that we do during the year, always helps the overall budget to bring in better acts, more kid friendly items," said Mardi Gras Southeast Texas President Laura Childress.
Mardi Gras SETX is planning for over 20,000 people to join this year's festivities.
"We are proud that we have a sponsor for that, that allowed us to have 10 to 12 free attractions, that kids can come and play on," Childress said.
This includes a gaming area and inflatable bounce houses and slides. Parents will also have a place to relax.
"Which will be a tent, with picnic tables, and chairs and some patio furniture out there, so in case, those parents get tired, while those little ones are having fun. They'll have a place to go sit, or eat and drink something and relax," said Childress.
The Beaumont Police Department is preparing to keep the crowds safe.
"And we're working to continue making it a great experience for everybody who attends," said BPD PIO Carol Riley.
BPD will have metal detectors staged at the entrances and dozens of officers will be patrolling the grounds inside.
"Know that there are gonna be delays, there are gonna be detours, do not bring your gun. We're gonna have enough security for you. And know that your bags will be searched," Riley said.
Mardi Gras kicks off on Thursday, Feb 8 with the chicken toss attended by Mayor Roy West at 5 p.m. and ends Sunday, Feb 11 with live music.
"It is important to Mardi Gras to provide something for everybody. So between Zydeco, Cajun, rap, oldies we're just try to do all of it," said Childress.
The kid's area will be open Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For a full list of parade and concert schedules as well as pricing check out our list here.