Lassiez les bone temps roulez!

Mardi Gras has Gone to the Dogs

In 2010 a lively bunch of animal-loving folks in the small, coastal town of Apalachicola, Florida, decided to renew an old tradition...with a twist, or rather a tail.

At the dawn of the 20th Century, Apalachicola celebrated Mardi Gras in much the same way as other cities - there were three days of brass bands, costumed characters, and boisterous parades. Mardi Gras royalty arrived by boat and floats were pulled by mules were decorated with Palmetto fronds and Camellias. The serious years of World War I put a complete stop to the celebration...until the Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers re-energized the enthusiasm.

Now Mardi Gras has made a comeback in the form of a “Barkus” Parade, a procession of costumed canines and their owners, Zydeco music, and lots of beads.

Each year the Krewe chooses a theme and a local celebrity to be Grand Marshal. There is always a special place in the parade for the Canine King and Queen, shelter animals in need of their forever home. Past themes have included “Bark Side of the Moon”, “Furry Tails Come True”, and “Bur-Bone Street Blues” and “GIT ALONG LI’L DOGGIES”. This year's theme is "GAME OF BONES...THE CANINE KINGDOM RULES" and is sure be just as much fun! PLUS - we're now hosting a 2-day event! check out the schedule for fun activities Friday & Saturday.

After winding through downtown, the parade ends at a Fais Do-Do, a public party with live music, dancing, delicious food, local seafood, auctions, arts and crafts vendors and more beads.

Our volunteers have worked hard to become a Florida registered 501c3 nonprofit organization. Proceeds from all Krewe events are for the benefit of the animals in need along Florida's forgotten coast. Donations are MULTIPLIED to by our FUNdraising efforts and since 2014 we have donated over $100,000.00! Our beneficiaries are Franklin County Humane Society and Florida Wild Mammal Association. We also help support Apalachicola Dog Park.

Join our Krewe and let the fun continue! The Krewe participates in other parades and private events. Membership is open to anyone who loves animals and likes to have fun.

Mystic Krewe of Salty Barkers (registration #CH50443) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Florida Division of Consumer Services by calling 1-800-435-7352 (calling from within Florida) or 850-410-3800 (calling from outside Florida). The department’s website is www.fdacs.com. Registration with the State does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the State.

2026 Apalachicola Mardi Gras Barkus Parade & Festival

Friday Feb 27, 2026 12-6 pm & Saturday Feb 28, 2026 11-4 pm