Twelfth Night traditionally signals the end of the Christmas season, but as the appearance of King Cakes in some stores will testify, it also celebrates the beginning of the Mardi Gras season. To kick off those festivities, San Marcos’ only Mardi Gras Krewe, the Mistick Krewe of Okeanos, is holding its 9th annual Twelfth Night Carnival Ball on Saturday, Jan. 11, with music by The Dirty River Dixieland Band, the presentation of four debutantes and the crowning of the King and Queen Okeanos IX.
The debutantes that will take their bow into society at the ball are: Grace Baker, daughter of Ginny and Brian Baker; Dani McNabb, daughter of Monica Malorgio and Billy McNabb; Victoria Frances Polhemus, daughter of Rocio and Myric Polhemus; and Breonna Snead, daughter of Trish Bode and Bryan Snead. The King and Queen are chosen by the Krewe’s Board because of their contributions to the community. Their identity is kept secret until the night of the ball.
The Krewe of Okeanos was formed in 2012 to bring Mardi Gras festivities, with a Texas twist, to San Marcos. Traditionally, Mardi Gras Krewes take their names from Greek mythology and Okeanos, the Krewe’s namesake, is the Greek god of rivers, a perfect fit for San Marcos.
In addition to social activities, the no-profit organization produces a Mardi Gras parade on the Saturday before Mardi Gras that winds through the historic districts in town. This coming year the annual parade will be on Saturday, Feb. 22. The theme of the parade will be, “Okeanos Salutes America’s Heritage” and will feature floats, bands, and a variety of other units. The Krewe of Okeanos also supports the arts in several ways. The official poster for this year is designed by local artist Rene Perez and is a beautiful work of art. When able, the Krewe also helps provide musical instruments to children who cannot afford them.
For more information about the Krewe of Okeanos and the parade please go to their website.
