There’s nothing more quintessentially Louisiana than Mardi Gras — the vibrant, time-honored celebration of joy, culture, and community that precedes a season of fasting and reflection. While this tradition has deep roots in South Louisiana, northwest Louisiana has embraced its own Mardi Gras spirit for nearly four decades, thanks in large part to the Krewe of Gemini.

Founded in 1989, the Krewe of Gemini brought the pageantry of parading Mardi Gras to the Bossier-Shreveport region. As the area’s first parading krewe, it was created through a collaboration between the Bossier Chamber of Commerce and the City of Bossier City. Since then, it has grown into a dynamic nonprofit organization fueled entirely by volunteers with a shared passion for celebration and service.

Each year, the Krewe of Gemini hosts elaborate themed parades that draw thousands. The 2025 parade theme will be officially announced on June 21 — and excitement is already building. But behind the glittering floats and festive music lies a deeper story: one of dedication, camaraderie, and community impact.

Cole Guthrie, captain of Gemini XXXVII, said he is proud to represent the ArkLaTex as the region’s original parading Mardi Gras krewe, formed to bring the spirit and celebration of Mardi Gras to both cities on the Red River. 

Guthrie emphasizes that the Krewe is made up of people from all walks of life, spanning not only Louisiana but also Texas, Arizona, Florida, and beyond. What unites them isn’t just the love of Mardi Gras, but a shared desire to uplift and connect with their community.

“It’s the work behind the scenes that fuels my involvement,” he said. “Building floats, working with our board of directors, organizing events, and community involvement is what I enjoy the most. I have developed long-term friendships working alongside some amazing individuals from all walks of life.”

The term “krewe” itself, rooted in Old English, refers to a group that hosts Mardi Gras festivities. But the Krewe of Gemini is far more than a party-planning committee. It’s a tight-knit, purpose-driven network — a second family built on shared values of service, inclusivity, and joy. 

“You’re surrounded by people who are just as passionate and dedicated as you are, and over time those relationships grow to become a second family,” Guthrie said. “It’s the kind of camaraderie that lasts beyond parade season.”

That year-round commitment is a defining feature of the Krewe. Members of Gemini are active in civic and charitable initiatives well beyond the Mardi Gras season. Whether volunteering with Toys for Tots, Operation Santa Claus, or supporting local schools, food banks, veterans’ groups, and festivals like Mudbug Madness, their impact extends throughout the region. 

“We believe in using the Mardi Gras platform to do good, which is why many of our members are deeply involved in civic and charitable organizations far beyond parade season,” he explained. 

He added that you’ll find Gemini members volunteering year-round by supporting organizations like Toys for Tots, Operation Santa Claus, Mudbug Madness and other city-wide festivals, Bossier and Caddo schools, local food banks, and veteran groups. 

Beyond the festivities — the grand Bal, the float-loading party, the parade — lies a profound sense of purpose. For the Krewe of Gemini, Mardi Gras is more than tradition. It’s a vehicle for building stronger communities and celebrating the spirit of unity and generosity.

“Bossier City will always hold a special place in our hearts,” Guthrie added. “It’s where we found our home, our supporters, and our identity. We’re proud of that partnership and the role Bossier has played in our journey.”

For the Krewe of Gemini, the parade may roll through once a year, but their mission resonates all year long.