Arc of Acadiana’s Mardi Gras Bead Drive in Lafayette

LAFAYETTE, La. - (KMDL-FM) - After the Mardi Gras parades sweep through Lafayette, the fun often leaves behind piles of colorful beads. Instead of throwing your beads away, you can donate gently used Mardi Gras beads to a local program that benefits the community.

(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

What The Bead Drive Is All About

The Mardi Gras Bead Drive organized by Arc of Acadiana collects used beads from parade goers. These beads are then cleaned, sorted, banded, and packaged by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who participate in Arc of Acadiana programs. This gives them valuable work experience and helps reduce waste.

How To Donate Your Mardi Gras Beads

There are several easy ways to contribute to Arc of Acadiana's bead drive.

Drop off after parades: Look for the brightly colored donation bins placed around Acadiana following Mardi Gras parades.

Year-round drop-offs: You can bring beads to donation points any time of year, not just during Carnival season.

School or community collections: Some local schools partner with Arc of Acadiana to collect beads as part of service projects.

(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Why Your Donation Matters

Reusing beads keeps them out of landfills and reduces environmental impact after the Carnival season. Adults served by the Arc of Acadiana are actively involved in the processing and preparation of beads for reuse, which supports skill development and employment.

Cleaned and sorted beads are stocked in Arc of Acadiana resale stores or used in throw bags for Mardi Gras balls and future celebrations.

Whether you have a few strands or boxes of beads to give away, your contribution supports sustainability and meaningful community work. Keep an eye out for donation bins throughout Lafayette Parish and consider participating in local collection efforts to make Mardi Gras celebrations even more impactful.

Find out more at arcofacadiana.com.

The 10 Commandments of Louisiana's Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras Season is here, and let’s face it—finding a bathroom on Mardi Gras Day is like spotting a unicorn. But there’s a lot more to navigating Carnival season than just bathroom logistics. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are the essential “10 Commandments of Mardi Gras” to make sure your celebration is as smooth as a second-line parade.

Gallery Credit: Michael Scott

Source: Support Arc of Acadiana’s Mardi Gras Bead Drive in Lafayette

Filed Under: Mardi Gras, arc of acadiana, Mardi Gras Beads

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