Beads on parade – A quick guide to the Mardi Gras madness ahead

Sure New Orleans—or even Mamou—is not a far drive, but here in Baton Rouge, we have eight popular events where you can get your parade on this Carnival season.

KREWE OF JUPITER AND JUNO
Founded in 2003, Krewe of Jupiter and Juno was the first Baton Rouge nighttime parade to offer singles and couples to ride together by featuring both co-ed, all-male and all-female floats. This year’s theme celebrates “Romancing the Ages.” 6:30 p.m., Government St. at St. Philip St. kreweofjupiter.com

MYSTIC KREWE OF MUTTS
Wagging tails, mini floats and pups in costume are typical sights at this CAAWS-sponsored parade. This year’s edition honors man’s best friend and The Marines with the theme of “Semper Fideaux.”1:30p.m., North Boulevard Town Square. caaws.org

KREWE OF ARTEMIS
Celebrating its 12th year as the Red Stick’s first and only parade with an exclusively female krewe, parade-goers are invited to dance, sing and “Come Rock and Roll with Artemis” this year.7 p.m., Baton Rouge River Center. http://kreweofartemis.net

KREWE MYSTIQUE DE LA CAPITALE
The city’s longest-running parade, this daytime event indulges in family-friendly fun and helps promote local businesses, too. 2 p.m., Baton Rouge River Center. krewemystique.com

KREWE OF ORION
This parade pays homage to cultural monuments and historical figures with it’s 14th annual celebration, “Legends and Landmarks.” 6:30 p.m., Baton Rouge River Center. kreweoforion.com

KREWE OF SOUTHDOWNS
For more than two decades, this neighborhood favorite has brought a taste of the “Big Easy” to Baton Rouge with fiery walking displays, live music and family entertainment. 7 p.m., Pickett Avenue. southdowns.org

KREWE OF SPANISH TOWN
Proud supporters of all things delightfully kitschy and satirical, this raucus day parade takes on the topical theme of “Flamingo Dynasty” for its 33rd anniversary. Noon, Spanish Town Road. spanishtownmardigras.com

BEAUREGARD TOWN WALKING PARADE
The neighborhood revelry of one of the city’s oldest areas continues for its eighth consecutive year. This unconventional parade is open to anyone who wants to join in on the unique Carnival experience. Noon, Old Governor’s Mansion on North Boulevard. downtownbatonrouge.org/playmardigras