35th annual African American History Parade

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – The African American History Parade returns to downtown Shreveport on Saturday.

The 35^th annual parade kicks off at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium, located at 705 Elvis Presley Boulevard, on Feb. 4 at 11:00 a.m. Bands, cheerleaders, dance groups, drill teams, social clubs, and more make this parade representative of many communities in Northwest Louisiana.

This free family-friendly event began in 1988 and is a place for all citizens to celebrate Black History Month.

And yes, there will be Mardi Gras beads and candy.

The SPD will close the parade route to traffic beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Feb. 4.

SPD has also provided a list of upcoming parades in Shreveport and tips for how to stay safe when you’re out and about on parade routes.

Upcoming parades:

African American History Parade

Feb. 4; parade route closes at 9:00 a.m. The parade begins at 11:00 a.m.

Krewe of Centaur Parade

Feb. 11; parade route closes at 1:00 p.m. The parade begins at 3:00 p.m.

Krewe of Gemini Parade

Feb. 18; parade route closes at 1:00 p.m. The parade begins at 3:00 p.m.

Krewe of Highland Parade

Feb. 19; parade route closes at 1:00 p.m. The parade begins at 2:00 p.m.

Parade safety tips from SPD

• Once streets on a parade route are closed, only emergency vehicles will be allowed to drive through.
• If you leave after the streets on a parade route are closed, you will not be allowed to return in your vehicle until the streets reopen after the parade.
• Glass bottles and containers are not allowed on parade routes.
• You are not allowed to cross parade barricades during a parade.
• Only service animals and animals in the secured yards of residents who live along the parade route are allowed within 200 yards of the parade route.
• Silly string is not allowed on parade routes.
• Dangerous objects are not allowed on parade routes.
• No one is allowed to throw anything at a parade float.
• No large flags or banners are allowed within 50 feet of the parade route, as they may obstruct the view.
• No one underage may possess alcohol.
• No public nudity is allowed.
• No motorized recreational vehicles are allowed along the parade route, including the grassy areas and on city streets.
• No firearms are permitted along parade routes.
• No unmanned aircraft systems (drones) are permitted over parade routes.
• Children are not allowed to be left unattended.
• Talk with children about a meeting place in case of accidental separation.
• Do not fight over Mardi Gras beads.
• Stay a safe distance away from parade floats.
• Leave your valuables at home.
• Keep your keys secure and secure your vehicle before the parade.
• Do not bring purses or wallets to parades.
• Keep money, keys and identification secure.
• Do not dump hot cooking coals on the grass.
• Obey all directions from law enforcement officers.
• Obey all traffic signs.
• Have fun and stay safe!