NEWS RELEASE

Media Contacts

Melissa Small, Communications Coordinator

Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau

msmall@sbctb.org

318-213-8266                                                                                                

November 10, 2016

Book Your Next Group's Tour to the 11th Annual Red River Mardi Gras Bash in Shreveport-Bossier

Red River Mardi Gras Bash is an exclusive party for groups to enjoy one of the largest parades in Louisiana

SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, LA – Book your next group on a fantastic Mardi Gras adventure at the 11th Annual Red River Mardi Gras Bash in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana. The party, an American Bus Association Top 100 Event, starts at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 18, 2017 and is hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Groups will enjoy this exclusive party and front row experience to the Krewe of Centaur parade – one of the largest Mardi Gras parades in Louisiana. The climate-controlled party tent is located along the riverfront, and tickets to the bash include live entertainment, savory Cajun/Creole food, king cake, a commemorative Mardi Gras bead and t-shirt and several hands-on experiences.

Once the parade takes off, groups can see brightly colored floats, marching bands, outrageous Mardi Gras personalities, and, of course, catch some beads. The parade route features alcohol-free zones and plenty of excitement all-day long.

"The Red River Mardi Gras Bash is a wonderful event, and our group enjoys all the benefits of the VIP tent party including the prime viewing spot on the parade route,” said Greg Windsor, member of American Eagle HOG Chapter in Corinth, Texas. “We return to Shreveport-Bossier every Carnival season because we enjoy the southern hospitality of the Tourist Bureau, casinos, accommodations and food."

Groups looking to add additional Mardi Gras experiences to their itineraries can attend the free Krewe of Centaur Float Loading Party on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, take a behind-the-scenes tour at Julie Anne's Bakery to see how an authentic king cake is made, shop for Mardi Gras souvenirs and parade essentials at Tubb's Cajun Gifts, Mardi Gras Supply and King Cakes, tour the Krewe of Gemini Mardi Gras Museum or visit one of the six riverboat casinos.

Tickets to the event are $40 per person. Must be 21 years to attend. For more information about hotel discounts and group rate information in Shreveport-Bossier, contact Erica Telsee, group sales manager, at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau, at 1-800-551-8682 ext.104 or etelsee@sbctb.org or visit www.shreveport-bossier.org/mardigras.

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