The first Mardi Gras parade of the season rolled last weekend and now February is upon us. The next month is filled with balls, parades, beads and revelers. For those that aren't keen on Mardi Gras fun there is still plenty to do from the beach to Blakely and everywhere in between. Check out our favorite events this weekend.

Helping Hands Silent Auction
What: Helping Hands Gulf Shores (Kids Helping Kids) is holding a silent auction to benefit 6-year-old Ankitha Valdez who was diagnosed with a very rare primary immune deficiency. She is the ninth person and first child worldwide to be diagnosed with Bare Lymphocyte. The silent auction will feature live music and auction items from Nick Cantrell, Glow Yoga and more. All money raised with go to Valdez's family to assist with expenses.
When: Friday, Feb. 4 from 2-7 p.m.

Where: Big Beach Brewing, 600 East 24th Ave., Gulf Shores

King Cake-Off
What: The fourth Annual King Cake-Off will decide who has the best King Cake on the Gulf Coast. Area bakeries, eateries and grocery stores will compete to see who has the tastiest King Cake and King Cake-inspired treat. The family-friendly event will feature live music, local vendors, kids' activities, specialty cocktails, King Cake tastings and more.
When: Friday, Feb. 4 from 5-7:30 p.m.
Where: The Temple, 351 St. Francis Street, Mobile
Price: Adult tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Children's tickets are $5 for ages three – 12 years old, two and under are free. Visit kingcakeoff.com for tickets and more information.

Battlefield Blitz 5K and Fun Run
What: Blakeley's annual Battlefield Blitz 5K and Fun Run is a fundraiser directly benefiting park programming and special projects. Held on the grounds of Alabama's largest Civil War battlefield, the Blitz is a unique community event.
Where: Blakeley State Park
When: Feb. 5, 8 a.m.
Price: Adults $20, Youth 12 and under $15, Blakeley Supporters $15. Visit blakeleypark.com to register.

"Thoroughly Modern Millie"
What: The city of Orange Beach Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents the Tony Award winning show. "Thoroughly Modern Millie" will take you back to the height of the Jazz Age in New York City in 1922. Filled with flappers and dashing gents, come prepared for a fun evening.
Where: Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Road, Orange Beach
When: Feb. 4, Feb. 5, Feb. 11, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 6 and Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
Price: Tickets are $15 for all ages and can be purchased orangebeachal.gov.

Mardi Gras Parades this weekend
Feb. 5 – Dauphin Island People's Parade, 1 p.m.