GALVESTON, Texas – Mardi Gras partiers will see increased security at Galveston's Fat Tuesday parade.
"We always increase security for the Tuesday parade," said Lt. Michael Gray of the Galveston Police Department. "We have extra officers guard the parade route. We always do to make it safer for people."
Mardi Gras partiers got out of control Saturday night, throwing bottles, trashcans and metal barricades. People who were there at the time said police acted fast and quickly got a handle on the situation.
"Beads came falling and hit two officers," witness Oscar Gonzales said. "The officers got hit pretty hard, and I got hit in the back. To me, all the streets were well patrolled."
Revelers said they feel safer with increased security and the weekend's Mardi Gras mayhem won't stop them from enjoying the Fat Tuesday parade in Galveston.
"I'm not letting that scare me away or anything," said Laura Prata. "I'm still excited."
Mystic Krewe of Aquarius "Fat Tuesday" parade kicks off at 6:30 p.m. in the Strand District and historic downtown. Each year, this family-friendly grand parade draws in big crowds for the locals living on the island. In the final hours of Mardi Gras, the Krewe's of Gambrinus, BABALU, Thalasar, Baccus and Z Krewe join Aquarius for the revelry. The parade will feature marching bands, dance teams and dozens of lighted floats.