SUBMITTED PHOTO The Wimberley Valley Big Band brought the second line to Wimberley for Mardi Gras.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Twist and shout to the big band’s New Orleans’ sound.
SUBMITTED PHOTO A good time was had by all at the Big Band’s Mardi Gras.
Second-Line Celebrates Mardi Gras
A little bit of New Orleans came to the Wimberley Community Center on Saturday night, March 2, 2019, when the Wimberley Valley Big Band led the celebration of “Fat Tuesday” with a free gala dance party. More than 100 Wimberley Valley residents arrived, many in Mardi Gras costume, ready to dance, listen to big band music, and enjoy a small Dixieland group.
And, of course, there were “second lines.” A band member explained to the crowd that New Orleans is all about parades, not just at Mardi Gras. Following a New Orleans street band as they parade through the Quarter, the “second line” parades also, adding dance steps in as they go, and traditionally waving either an umbrella or a handkerchief. As the band struck up the State song of Louisiana, “You Are My Sunshine,” and later “When the Saints Go Marching In,” the band member led the entire assembly who followed her all around the Johnson Room several times, enjoying our very own “second line.”
The first Wimberley Valley Big Band Mardi Gras Dance was a great success, enjoyed by all who attended. The Wimberley Valley Big Band is a non-profit, all-volunteer, 21-piece group, dedicated to bringing the enjoyment of “big band” music to the Wimberley Valley. The Band was assisted in putting on this party by a group of loyal, hardworking volunteers, and through the support of the Wimberley Community Center and the Wimberley Chamber of Commerce.
For upcoming events, visit hillcountrycommunityband/jazzband or email the Band at [email protected] , or follow us on Facebook at Wimberley Valley Big Band.