The Children's Mardi Gras Ball is a vibrant, family-friendly event that captures the festive spirit of Mardi Gras while catering to the younger crowd. Held in conjunction with the Miss Mardi Gras Pageant, this event offers a delightful mix of celebration and tradition for families.Upon arrival, attendees are greeted by the colorful, lively atmosphere that defines Mardi Gras. The venue is adorned with festive decorations, including purple, green, and gold—the traditional Mardi Gras colors. There’s usually a grand display of masks, feathers, and streamers, setting the stage for a fun-filled evening.A key highlight of the ball is the king cake, a traditional Mardi Gras treat. This sweet, colorful cake is often served in a variety of flavors and is decorated with vibrant icing and sprinkles. Each slice might contain a hidden plastic baby figurine, and finding the baby is said to bring good luck and a special prize, adding an extra layer of excitement for the children. At the children’s ball, the lucky person who finds the baby will win a fun Mardi Gras Gift Basket!Beads are a central feature of the celebration. Much like the parades, beads are thrown from a stage by our newly crowned queens, creating a lively, interactive experience for the kids. Children delight in catching the beads and exchanging them, adding to the carnival atmosphere. A fun Mardi Gras Themed Costume/Dance Contest will be held for the chance to be crowned the King or Queen of the Ball!The dance floor is always a hub of activity, where families can join in the fun. Music ranges from upbeat, family-friendly tunes to classic Mardi Gras songs, encouraging everyone to get up and dance. Whether they’re showing off their best dance moves or simply enjoying the lively music, children and parents alike can immerse themselves in the celebratory vibe.Overall, the Children’s Mardi Gras Ball is a joyous event that combines the tradition of Mardi Gras with activities and experiences tailored for younger attendees. It’s a great way for families to enjoy the festivities together in a fun, inclusive environment. Tickets are $10 per person and can be picked up at our sponsor location:Flip City Academy 9332 Hard Drive, Foley, AL 36535 or through a Flip City Dance Team Member.Attire: is Formal Dress or Mardi Gras Themed Costume or Outfit for Girls, Mardi Gras Themed Attire or Costume for Boys, Mardi Gras colors for parents.For reservations to purchase tickets, please message us! Space is Limited

Bring your family and friends to watch the spectacular Lighting of the Mardi Gras Tree from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, January 16. Experience the fun, music, and magic that marks the beginning of this festive season! Check out the order of events below:  The Excelsior Band kicks off the event at 6 p.m. Mayor Stimpson will light the tree at 6:30 p.m.The Jukebox Brass Band will perform at 6:30 p.m. The Blow House Brass Band will perform at 7:20 p.m. Plus, there will be food trucks! You won't want to forget this Carnival celebration in Mobile, the birthplace of Mardi Gras. Learn more at www.cityofmobile.org/events.

Join us on January 18th from 2pm to 4pm for the special closing celebration of The Amazing Castle and Framed: Step into Art. During this limited time, families/teams can participate in the Great Dinosaur Race around the Exploreum to try and win a 3D printed dinosaur egg containing a secret surprise ranging from Gift Shop gift certificates to admission passes. The first family/team to complete the race will win a Mini Plus Family Membership. All participating families/teams will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win other great prizes. Starting at 2pm, participating teams will receive a list of different exciting STEM activities they must race to complete all around the Exploreum. From STEM challenges in the AM/NS STEM lab to chemistry fun in the Science Squad Headquarters, guests will explore the wonders of science learning as they rush to the finish line. There will also be special magical challenges in the Amazing Castle and Framed: Step Into Art. The Education team will be stationed around the building leading the different experiments and activities. The first five families/teams that complete the entire list of STEM activities win a dino egg! Admission for the event (2pm-4pm) is $12 for non-members and free for members. * At the conclusion of the race at 4pm, there will be a special showing of Jurassic Park in the PCI Digital Dome Theater. Seating in the film is first come, first served. Do you think you can win the Great Dino Race?

Unlimited rotational bowlingShoes included2 admissions to Laser tag$10 Bonus Arcade Card All for only $22 pp

Meet at the Gulf State Park Pier for a guided exploration of the sky, stars, planets, and constellations (Weather dependent). The program is free and pier entry for this program is waived. Please note there is a $10 parking fee, if you do not have a GSP parking pass or decal. Please use the link below to register for this FREE. Pre-registration is preferred but not required.https://reserve.alapark.com/register/stargazing-at-the-Pier

Join us at Rosedown Designs for a fun Mardi Gras door hanger class! Choose between these 4 designs, all door hangers are etched for easy painting. Must register by January 10th; register by going to www.rosedowndesigns.com Grab your girls and BYOB and snacks we are going to have a fabulous time!

The Gumbo & Alabama Slammer FestivalRETURNS to Heritage Park - Sat, Jan. 25th200 N. McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535Don't miss this day of Family Fun!Wear your comfy pants for TONS OF GUMBO!!!With The BEST Food Trucks--The BEST LIVE BANDS--10:30 AM- Mandy As Miranda (Lambert)1:00 PM - Keith as Kenny (Chesney)*Bring A Chair-Bring A Blanket-Bring A Friend*-Huge Kid Zone -Pony Rides -Petting Zoo-Large variety of Art & Craft vendors-ALABAMA SLAMMER'S & Other Mixed Drinks-Craft & Domestic Beer & Wine-Contests for CASH & MORE!$5 Entry - 12 & under FREE EntryTickets in advance or as you arrive!https://www.beachlifeevents.com/gumbo_tickets.php•No Outside Food or Drinks•

Join us for OWA’s 5th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, in Downtown OWA! This family-friendly festival features a variety of local artists, vendors, and small businesses showcasing their handmade goods. Take your time browsing the unique booths, enjoy live music, and find something special to take home. Bring the whole family and join us in supporting the talent and creativity of the community! The Arts & Crafts Festival is free to enjoy.