By LEONARD GRAY

LAPLACE – Massive crowds poured out during last weekend to take advantage of the weather and the good fellowship to watch Carnival parades in the River Parishes.

Saturday saw the Krewe of Towahpahsah roll through the neighborhood streets of Reserve, at the same time as the Krewe of Lul in Luling. On Sunday, Krewe du Monde filled the streets of LaPlace, at the same time as Krewe of Allemands in Des Allemands.

Misty rain early Saturday cleared by parade time and children frolicked, while adults enjoyed renewing friendships along parade route locations staked out weeks before the parade date.

In St. Charles Parish, as well, “Mr. Peanut” preceded each parade, gathering donations of peanut butter for the annual food basket drive. The drive is co-sponsored by St. Charles Parish Hospital and St. Charles Social Concerns.

Crowd sizes were large for all parades, but sheriff’s offices were unable to report on any serious incidents until at least Wednesday.