“Laissez les bons temps rouler” has been “laissez les bull temps rouler” on the streets of Durham for the past six years. “We are a grass-roots community organization that encourages free expression and creativity,” said Rhiannon Kincaid, Durham Mardi Gras vice president.The event started in 2011 as a small gathering of neighbors and friends for Fat Tuesday and has grown into a party for the community. The idea behind a Durham Fat Tuesday celebration was to bring the vibe of the New Orleans revelry to the Tar Heel state, making sure to infuse just the right amount of North Carolina into the evening while introducing folks to the concept of gathering a krewe together and hosting themed floats for the parade. “Individuals are encouraged to dress up, show up, and enjoy the free entertainment,” said Kincaid. The event has been free throughout its six-year run and is able to remain that way because of sponsorship. Kincaid said, “Because of the generous support from our host venues, sponsors, and individual donations, we were able to provide free entertainment on five stages this year, including seven bands, a drag show, and a break dancing act.”
Bull City Mardi Gras
