JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Saturday's biggest attraction for the City of Jackson was the 30th edition of the Mal's St. Paddy's Parade.
This year's theme was "That's What I Like About the South."
There were kilts, green plaid, green beads and everything Irish, combined with a Mardi Gras feel.
In 1983 parade founder Malcolm White started this celebration in the capital city. What began with a few people three decades ago has grown into crowds in the tens of thousands.
Last year more than 65,000 people partied in the streets of downtown Jackson. Up to 70,000 were expected this year.
"People have been sort of going outwards for a while and they're coming back in so it's one day to get families together, get people downtown, see what it's all about and have some fun," said one parade-goer.
"It's always a family event ... simply for the love and the love that we show everyone for Jackson, Mississippi. So we just come out and just have a good time," said another parade goer.
"We're here with the rude man rude women Krewe telling what we love about Mississippi. I'm a jailbird. Whoo shake a tail feather," added Clair Harvey, parade goer.
"Diversity in Jackson Mississippi is a beautiful thing. When northerners we think of the south we don't think about diversity. I think of diversity when I come here and have a good time a the parade," said parade goer, Spencer Corbett.
The fun didn't end after the parade the annual street festival is going on right now in front of Hal and Mal's on Commerce Street.
Copyright 2012 WLBT. All rights reserved.
WLBT 3 - Fox 40
