Olive Branch Mardi Gras parade returns for fourth year
OLIVE BRANCH, Miss. – The spirit of the French Quarter is returning to North Mississippi as the Olive Twig Humanitarian Group prepares to host its fourth annual Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, Feb. 7.
What began as a localized celebration has evolved into a major community staple, expanding significantly in size and impact. Organizers Taylor Wiles and Jaime O’Bar noted that the event has doubled its participant count and vendor presence since its inception, becoming a vital fundraiser for the Olive Branch community.
“The number of participants has grown year over year,” said O’Bar. “Even the number of people wanting to make donations and be contributors has grown. We put all the money raised to great use, helping community schools and providing scholarships for seniors.”
A Day of Festivities
While the parade officially kicks off at 1:00 p.m. near Olive Branch High School, festivities begin at 11:00 a.m. at the City Hall parking lot and the Weston House. Early arrivals can enjoy:
- Live Music: The Ryan Hayes Band will perform at the Weston House.
- Family Fun: A dedicated kids’ zone featuring balloon artists and face painting.
- Food Trucks: Local vendors will be stationed at City Hall starting at 11:00 a.m.
- Entertainment District: The city has extended the entertainment district from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., allowing adults to carry beverages in designated cups between local establishments like the Mississippi Ale House and Ash’s Irish Pub.
Parade Highlights and “Bead Etiquette”
The 2026 lineup includes local businesses, high school dance teams, the Memphis Grizzlies dance team, and law enforcement agencies. Mayor Ken Adams is also expected to participate, riding in a Public Works vehicle.
Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional purple, green, and gold. For those looking for the best view, organizers recommend the Old Towne downtown area near City Hall and Pigeon Roost.
“The judging station is right in front of the Chamber,” O’Bar said. “If groups are going to perform, that’s where they’ll stop. It’s a big, fun time.”
Wiles also reminded attendees of “bead etiquette”—encouraging float riders to throw beads below the shoulder for safety. Additionally, residents along the route are invited to participate in a house-decorating contest, with the winner receiving a $200 Lowe’s gift card.
Impact Beyond the Parade
The Olive Twig Humanitarian Group utilizes parade proceeds to fund various local initiatives throughout the year. These include:
- Senior Scholarships: Available to any student with an Olive Branch address.
- School Support: Filling food pantries, providing clothing (leggings and coats), and stocking feminine hygiene products in local schools.
- Emergency Assistance: Aiding families affected by house fires and providing medical necessities, such as vision care and glasses, for children in need.
“It really brings a ton of people down into this area that maybe don’t usually come down here,” Wiles said. “It’s a hand-in-hand project with the city.”
The event will proceed rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather, updates will be posted to the City of Olive Branch and Olive Twig Humanitarian Group Facebook pages.
