Just after the ice storm in mid-January, the Noxapater Community Chamber Alliance began preparing for the possibility of inclement weather on February 10. A few social media rumors fueled the idea that there would be another ice storm set to move in that weekend, and, of course, there’s always the threat of rain during January and February in Mississippi.
However, the rain – which never developed, coincidentally – didn’t stall the enthusiasm for the Small Town Mardi Gras event. At least 2,500 attended despite the dreary weather.
Individuals from Starkville, Philadelphia, and even Macon joined in the first annual 5K. The fun run and 5K benefitted the Noxapater High School football team.
Tanner Allen, who played on the 2021 National Championship Mississippi State baseball team, spoke, giving his testimony. He also signed autographs prior to taking the stage.
The Noxapater Community Chamber Alliance had decided to hold the parade, originally scheduled for 3 PM, at 1 PM. Even so, the schedule ran closely to the one initially planned. Winners of the Chili Cookoff talent show performed between activities, and headlining acts such as Take 12 and Jodie Ross took the stage to provide entertainment.
People began lining up for the parade around noon, and not only were elected officials represented in the parade, but also two local volunteer fire departments, school clubs, ATV/UTVs, and even a few classic cars made up the participants.
Yes, the threat of rain may have tried to put a damper on the festivities in Noxapater, but the day still offered, food, fun, and fellowship.
