NORMAN — Everyone knows Mardi Gras for the festive colors, elaborate costumes, decadent food, bead-throwing and of course, a giant parade.
But Oklahoma’s original Mardi Gras parade is about more than just fun. It’s about serving the community.
The Norman Mardi Gras Parade will take place at 7 p.m. on Feb. 18, but organizers are asking for donations prior to the parade to support the Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency food pantry.
Food donations can be dropped off at the Norman Public Library starting today through Feb. 17. The day of the parade, donations can de dropped off at the judge’s station at The Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave.
Stephanie Ingraham, client service coordinator for the Cleveland County offices, said any type of canned food or non-perishable items are greatly appreciated, but what the pantry needs the most right now is tuna and peanut butter.
These food items are healthy staples for the pantry that cost more than the average order, she said.
“When we get big donations, like through the parade, then we don't have to worry about running out of money to order food,” Ingraham said. “When we get donations like that it holds us over a lot longer.”
The agency is able to provide an average of 250 meals to individuals per month, she said.
The Norman Mardi Gras committee hopes the parade will promote community through art, music and human rights awareness. Ed Kearns, charity coordinator, said donating to the agency is a way to reach one of their goals.
“Well, there’s a lot of reasons,” he said, about why people should get involved. “It’s a celebration of arts and community spirit ... it’s also a lot of fun. The food drive is just a fun way that the community can help those that are in need.”
Parade entries for this year’s family friendly night-time parade, themed “Let’s Heat It Up!”, are still being accepted.
Registration, accepted no later than Feb. 15, is $25. Entry forms are available online at www.normanmardigrasparade.com or may be picked up at the Norman Library, 225 N. Webster Ave., or the Norman Arts Council, 122 E. Main St.
“This is a creative outlet. This is a creative parade,” Aimee Rook, parade coordinator, said. “This is your time to sing, dance, shine, have fun — it’s just totally about shaking off the winter blues and building community and creating this together.”
Hannah Cruz 366-3533 hcruz@normantranscript.com
