Parades roll in Baton Rouge

Revelry abounds

Carnival revelers turned out in droves Saturday for two separate Mardi Gras parades in downtown Baton Rouge.

In the morning, was Krewe of Mystique, which has been rolling for the last 35 years, making it Baton Rouge’s oldest parading Mardi Gras krewe. Featuring Red Stick Roller Derby Girls and elaborate regal floats, Mystique members generously showered the crowd with multicolored beads, stuffed animals and other throws. The Krewe of Mystique honored Queen Jessica Taylor Kennedy and King Kevin Hudson Himball.

In the evening, Krewe of Orion rolled. Orion’s theme this year was “Celebrating 200 Years of Louisiana,” reflected by each float’s depiction of an area landmark. The Krewe of Orion honored for 2012, its 13th year, Queen Robin Williams and King Tommy Means.