Parade goers say watching Endymion was worth getting drenched

wwltv.com

Posted on February 18, 2012 at 10:25 PM

Updated today at 10:25 PM

Monica Hernandez / Eyewitness News

NEW ORLEANS - Heavy wind and rain pounded into tents set up along the Endymion route Saturday afternoon, pushing the parade back over an hour. But die-hard revelers continued to stake out their spot and make the most of it. Some made a make shift "Slip 'n' Slide" out of a blue tarp. Other played soccer on the neutral ground or danced beneath porches.

 Some huddled together beneath lowered tents.

"We got family, we got shelter, we got food, we [are] good," said Lynn Cochran, of Gonzales.

And then came the parade that thousands braved the weather for. With 2,500 members and massive floats, revelers said they didn't mind the spotty showers as as the parade began. 

"I got my survival kit and my poncho and my drink. I'm good, I'm good, this is wonderful. I've got beads, this is my first one, my very first Mardi Gras catch, so I'm very excited about that," said Angela Martinez, from Houston, pointing to her first set of beads.

"We rode our bikes, we got soaked, threw our stuff in the drier, and now we're here," said Sarah Hubley, of Mid-City.

Mid-City neighbors said they're relieved the area's only parade rolled despite the rain. Last year, wet weather pushed the event back to Sunday, when it rolled Uptown behind Bacchus.

"Endymion's the best parade of the season and that's why I'm out here in the freezing weather," said Tricia Schiro, of Metairie.

And so, thousands lined the Mid-City cheering, catching throws, and enjoying the spirit of carnival.

"The state of Louisiana has a lot to offer, happy Mardi Gras, nothing but fun," said Walter Falls, of New Orleans.

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Parade goers say watching Endymion was worth getting drenched