Opinion: Mardi Growl is cute fun for a good cause
Jolin Baker recaps the ninth annual Mardi Growl Parade held on Saturday, March 5.
// Photo by Jolin Baker
[title_box title=”Opinion: Mardi Growl is cute fun for a good cause”]
On Saturday, March 5 humans and dogs alike began to flood Willow Avenue, at 9 a.m. to begin the ninth annual Mardi Growl Parade.
The event allows owners and their precious pups to dress up in brightly colored costumes of green, yellow, purple and UT Orange. Mardi Growl was presented by Radio System Corporation-Home of Petsafe, Invisible Fence and Sport DOG Brand. All proceeds from Mardi Growl went to the Young-Williams Animal Center.
The Grand Marshal rode in a red convertible at the front of the parade with a smile of joy under his bushy mustache. The Fulton High School Marching Band followed behind him and led the parade of dogs and their owners.
Costumes ranged from feather boas in Mardi Gras colors to a dog dressed up as spaghetti and meatballs. One dog owner even dressed up as Chef Boyardee. It was definitely a sight to see.
This colorful parade started at Willow Avenue in the Old City, took a right onto S. Central Street, a left onto W Jackson Avenue and then another left onto S. Gay Street. The parade ended in Market Square, where a huge party erupted. The pet party went from 12-2 p.m. and Market Square was crawling with colorful dogs.
There were many vendors covering Market Square during the celebration. Contest winners were announced during the pet party as well, available to all dogs big and small. Some of the contests included Best Vol Spirit, Pet/Owner look-a-like and Best Costume. There was even a dog adoption agency set up in Market Square.
Mardi Growl could definitely be labeled as a fun and furry event, and one that is enjoyable for participants and viewers alike. I loved all the amazing costumes that each dog wore and can’t wait to go to the event again next year!
Photos by Jolin Baker
Edited by Taylor Owens
Looks and sounds like a lot of fun!!!!