Barefoot Mardi Gras returns to the island for the 2026 parade on Saturday, Feb. 28
North Padre Island’s sand will transform into a parade route at Barefoot Mardi Gras Saturday, Feb. 28, bringing locals, Winter Texans, and visitors to one of the island’s biggest events of the year. This year’s beachfront event is anticipated to attract one of the biggest audiences ever due to record participation, an expanded route, and increasing attendance. The event, an annual fundraiser hosted by the Padre Island Business Association, supports local nonprofit organizations each year with a portion of the proceeds. “To our knowledge, we are the only parade that runs entirely on a beach in the country,” said event…