The city of Dothan witnessed a vibrant celebration on Saturday, March 1, as the Krewe of Kolosse (KOK) hosted its landmark 10th annual Mardi Gras Parade. This highly anticipated event, which has grown exponentially over the past decade, brought together thousands of spectators eager to participate in the bead-catching and MoonPie tossing. Featuring an impressive lineup of over 40 elaborately designed floats, more than 1,500 riders, and an array of contests and festivities, the parade brought the spirit of Mardi Gras to Southeast Alabama.

A Decade of Mardi Gras in Dothan

What began in 2014 as a spontaneous initiative among a small group of friends has since evolved into a premier event in Dothan’s social calendar. The first parade, consisting of just five floats and two antique cars, has expanded to include an extensive procession that now winds through the city, culminating in a grand finale downtown.

The Krewe of Kolosse has played a pivotal role in fostering this tradition. Established to uphold the customs of Mobile and New Orleans, the organization has grown to encompass more than 180 members from diverse backgrounds. In addition to organizing the parade, KOK hosts an annual Mardi Gras Ball, where debutantes are formally introduced to society, and a King and Queen of Kolosse are crowned. This year’s milestone 10th anniversary was particularly significant, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Krewe and its contributions to the community.

2025 Parade Highlights

The 2025 parade was marked by a spectacular array of floats, each showcasing intricate designs and thematic elements. Grand Marshal Sean Dietrich, the esteemed Alabama-based writer known as Sean of the South, led the procession.

“With his deep love for Dothan and his incredible storytelling talent, we could not think of a better person to ask to be the Grand Marshal for the Krewe of Kolosse’s tenth anniversary,” Krewe of Kolosse representatives said in a press release. “His passion for our community shines through the many works he has created focusing on Dothan, Alabama, and we can’t wait to see how he brings this unforgettable experience to life in words.”

Sean detailed his experience at the 10^th annual parade in a recent feature on Sean of the South. Speaking to the palpable excitement of the record-breaking celebration, he counts the day as one to remember and ends his post with a notable endorsement, “I’d tell you of the many other parade experiences and surreal encounters that shall stay with me. But for now I will simply say that there truly is no place on earth like Dothan, Alabama.”

Beyond the spectacle of the floats, beads, and Moon Pies, there were a variety of activities prior to the parade such as the Mardi Gras Mile, king cake eating contest, Kelley Sausage Toss, and a Mr. and Mrs. Mardi Gras costume contest. Downtown Dothan was also filled with an array of food trucks and VIP experiences for participants.

Following the excitement of the parade, the festivities continued at the official afterparty featuring the beloved Southern band, Trotline, at The Plant in downtown Dothan.

A Commitment to Community

While the Mardi Gras Parade is synonymous with celebration, the Krewe of Kolosse remains steadfast in its dedication to charitable endeavors. Each year, KOK selects local organizations to support, partnering with its sister group, the Order of the Black Dress (OBD), to conduct fundraising initiatives. These efforts ensure that the festive season contributes to meaningful causes, reinforcing the Krewe’s commitment to community engagement and support.

The Krewe of Kolosse has firmly established Mardi Gras as a cherished tradition in the city of Dothan–with each passing year, the event continues to evolve, offering greater spectacles and deeper connections to the community. The 10th anniversary was a testament to the Krewe’s dedication to the event.

Mark your calendars for next year’s parade, which will take place on February 14th, 2026. Laissez les bons temps rouler!