03/01/2026
We’re listening, we’re learning, and we’re excited about what’s next.
Today marks two weeks since the inaugural Zachary Mardi Gras parade, and as we reflect and look ahead to planning for 2027, we want to clearly invite constructive community feedback.
As we enter our debriefing and planning phase, much of the feedback we’ve received — particularly across Facebook and TikTok — has centered on parade throws. That feedback is heard and appreciated.
With an estimated crowd of nearly 8,000 attendees, turnout far exceeded expectations. For perspective, Zachary’s Christmas parade typically attracts 2,000–3,000 people. This year, we tripled to quadrupled that number — and growth at that scale brought both excitement and important lessons.
This celebration was produced by a brand-new nonprofit organization, Our Beloved Community United Inc., a 501(c)(3), and executed by a 100% volunteer-led committee. The founder, Jamar Hebert, personally underwrote a significant portion of the event, alongside generous sponsors who stepped up — some at the final hour — to support the celebration.
As we look ahead, our focus is on scaling responsibly, strengthening sustainability, and improving the parade experience to meet the level of community support Zachary showed is possible. If you have thoughtful feedback or ideas, we welcome you to share them directly with us at [email protected].
Growth brings lessons, and we’re embracing them.
Zachary showed us what’s possible — now we build on it.
cc: The City of Zachary
cc:Zachary Police Department
cc:Zachary Chamber of Commerce
