No one likes being left out — especially during holidays and special events, and Mardi Gras is no exception.

But for many special needs children and adults, the loud noises, large crowds and inaccessibility of traditional parades make it difficult to join in the festivities.

That's why SHOW Baldwin Inc. is launching a new Mardi Gras tradition in Baldwin County: the inaugural Show Baldwin Mardi Gras Parade, also known as the Parade of Possibilities, set for Sunday, March 2, at 1:30 p.m. in the Orange Beach Methodist Church parking lot.

The event, hosted by the nonprofit SHOW Baldwin Inc. – Special Humans Outreach & Wellness, aims to provide a sensory-friendly and accessible parade experience.

"The Parade of Possibilities is doing just that – making it possible for people of all abilities to experience Mardi Gras in their own way this year," SHOW Baldwin Social Chair Crawford McWilliams said.

Participants are encouraged to decorate their own "floats," which can be anything from wagons and adaptive strollers to golf carts and bicycles. Walking participants are also welcome. Beads and throws will be provided, and light refreshments will be available.

Elizabeth Gates, president of SHOW Baldwin, said the idea stemmed from parents and caregivers who felt traditional Mardi Gras parades were not accessible for their loved ones.

"A lot of us have children or loved ones who have never been able to attend or participate in a parade because of the loud noises and large crowds, as well as due to the inaccessibility," Gates told Gulf Coast Media. "This seemed to be common among many special needs moms in the community, and this is how SHOW's Mardi Gras Parade was formed."

SHOW Baldwin Secretary Lauren Hardy echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming experience.

"We wanted to give both special needs kids and adults the opportunity to join in all of the Mardi Gras fun while still feeling comfortable and safe," Hardy said. "The parade is fully inclusive and sensory- friendly, with low noise and lots of space and accessibility. This parade means so much to so many in our community. Laissez les bon temps rouler!"

The event welcomes not only participants but also friends, family and community members to enjoy the festivities as spectators. Those joining the parade should arrive by 1:15 p.m. for lineup.

Following the parade, a special needs-friendly church service, called the Joy Service, will be held at 2 p.m. in the Orange Beach Methodist Church sanctuary.

McWilliams said support from the church has been instrumental in making the event possible.

"We are so thankful that our Social Committee was able to bring this idea to life," McWilliams said. "It is also amazing that Orange Beach Methodist Church has so generously offered up their property for our parade. This church is so special to SHOW, and we are all extremely grateful for their kindness and support."

For more information or to sign up as a participant, visit https://tinyurl.com/4jdnzznu.

To see more about what SHOW Baldwin Inc. is doing in our community as well as their upcoming events, follow them on Facebook at SHOW Baldwin Inc. - Special Humans Outreach & Wellness.