LAKE CHARLES, La. (February 27, 2020) – Visit Lake Charles recently held a community-wide Mardi Gras Shoebox Float Contest. Those entering ranged from school groups, clubs and organizations to professional divisions and residents of all ages.

Throughout the Mardi Gras season, visitors to the Welcome Center, 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive, cast their votes for the “People’s Choice” award. Nearly 300 votes were cast, and the winner of the contest was awarded to Christi Touchet’s third-grade class at Prien Lake Elementary School in Lake Charles. Ms. Touchet’s students were extremely creative and captured the imaginations of visitors who were intrigued by the details of the three floats, which depicted a pirate ship at sea, zoo animals at the “Lake Charles Zoo,” and a traditional Mardi Gras float with a mask, beads, and various colorful décor.

“During this festive time of the year, we enjoy showcasing our culture to visitors who are stopping at our welcome center as they are driving along Interstate 10. Mardi Gras has worldwide recognition, and it is also a tremendous boost to the local economy, bringing in $22 million to Calcasieu Parish through visitor expenditures. We hope that the display will entice those visiting during the Mardi Gras season to come back to experience our family-friendly celebrations,” said Kyle Edmiston, President/CEO of Visit Lake Charles.

For more information on Visit Lake Charles, visit www.visitlakecharles.org or call 337-436-9588.