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With 2024 now underway, the Mardi Gras Society of Southwest Georgia is gearing up for the new year’s Mardi Gras festivities. This year will see several new events added to the line-up, beginning with the Mambo Grand Slam Tennis/ Pickleball Tournament and the Let the Good Times Roll Golf Tournament, both on January 20, at the Bill Reynolds Tennis Center and Bainbridge Country Club, respectively. Other new festivities include Mardi Gras Yoga and Arts & Crafts. Last year’s PAWrade of Markus, Run for the Beads 5k and Fun Run and Mardi Gras Parade will be returning as well.

The Mardi Gras Society is a non-profit organization, with all funds raised being donated to charities. According to new Society member and parade line-up coordinator Summer Confer, the charities for this year have yet to be determined. Last year, donations were made to The Friendship House, the Bainbridge-Decatur County Humane Society, The Friends of Lake Seminole and the Seminole/,iller County Animal Rescue Alliance.

Confer stated that last year’s parade 22 golf carts participating, adding they “would love to see that number double or even triple this year.”

“The Mardi Gras Society of Southwest Georgia is one of the many groups that bring our community together,” Confer said. “We celebrate Mardi Gras, but our goal is to raise money for our communities. We definitely try to put the FUN in fundraising.” She encouraged people to consider purchasing a sponsorship and to participate in this year’s events.

Any businesses interested in buying a sponsorship can reach out to Society President Elect Jennifer Cannon. Registration for events can be found on their website, mgsswg.com