Clarendon-Courthouse Mardi Gras Parade Returns Tuesday

The 15th annual Clarendon-Courthouse Mardi Gras Parade kicks off at 8 p.m. Tuesday -- Fat Tuesday -- along Wilson Boulevard.

The event, which bills itself as "the Washington area's largest Mardi Gras celebration," is free.

The parade route runs along Wilson from North Barton to North Irving Street.

This year's parade features more than 40 groups from across the region, including the Batala Washington, the Jim Moyer Circus Club and the DC Rollergirls.

The Clarendon Alliance, which organizes the event, has 25 cases of Mardi Gras beads on order, according to a news release.

"We are really pleased that so many local businesses and community groups have signed up to participate this year," Clarendon Alliance Executive Director Matt Hussmann stated in a release.

"Our participant level is up by 40 percent over last year, so we really hope that people come out and let the good times roll next Tuesday."

Visitors are encouraged to walk or take the Metro to the parade area.

Street closures will be in effect from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Click here to see Patch's video from last year's event.