Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez, Galveston-Style!

Break out the beads and the bands! The official Mardi Gras season in Galveston -- which dates all the way back to 1867 -- kicks off tomorrow, February 13th, and runs through February 24th.

The island's residents, merry visitors and stalwart Krewes aren't ones to let anything get them down, especially the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike. Festivities for 2009 Mardi Gras will proceed the same as they have in previous years, with only a few minor changes along the way (the most notable change being that many parades will be held along the Seawall this year).

While most of tomorrow's events are open only to the Krewes or to those willing to fork over a good amount of their weekly paycheck for a gala ticket, Saturday's parades will be open to the public and full of free, festive fun. If you're looking for a cheap and cheerful Valentine's Day activity, Mardi Gras in Galveston is where it's at.

Saturday's parades will feature the following Krewes and their floats:

• Mystic Krewe of Aquarius: This lively Krewe will kick off the 22nd annual parade season at high noon with a Valentine's Day themed flotilla of 80 floats and 15 marching bands. The parade begins at 14th Street and Seawall Boulevard and continues west all the way to 59th Street.
• Fire Truck Parade: Hosted by the Galveston County Firefighter's Association, this young but popular parade (this will mark its third year) features fire trucks and fire fighters galore. Come out and show your support! Parade begins at 3:00 p.m. at 14th Street and Seawall Boulevard and continues west to 61st Street.
• Krewe of Gambrinus: The first of the parades to take place at night, this huge extravaganza of lights features King Gambrinus himself and a fantastic fireworks display to end the evening. Serious bead collectors will want to hit this one; the Krewe promises a whopping 650,000 throws! Parade begins at 6:00 p.m. and runs along the Seawall from 22nd Street to Central City Boulevard (63rd Street).

If you stay overnight for Mardi Gras, make sure to check out Sunday's New Orleans Style Brunch that the Hotel Galvez is serving in honor of the festivities. From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Sunday during Mardi Gras season, the hotel is offering a buffet of Cajun and Creole favorites along with Bloody Marys, champagne and mimosas in their popular restaurant, Bernardo's. Brunch is $35 per person and reservations are strongly recommended.

Aside from parades and buffets, other Mardi Gras festitivies will be in full swing in the historic Strand District and Saengerfest Park in downtown Galveston. You can check out the full list of activities online.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user mrp1001.