(MOBILE, Ala.) - Thousands of you enjoyed last Friday's Conde Cavalier parade.
And they were a feisty bunch.
But did you know there is a parade before the parade?
And the energy level at the morning processions is, just perhaps, even stronger than what the krewe finds downtown.
How did this tradition begin?
Well in 1977, a Cavalier's family member was in the hospital and the guys paid him a visit.
When they saw they joy they could bring, it was decided.
Every year, they would visit nursing homes and select schools to share carnival with those who might not make it to their big parade.
This year we caught up with the krewe at Augusta Evan School and the place went wild .
"These are the kids that can't get out and go to a parade," says one masked reveler. "We're here, this is what we're doing for them and this is what we want to do. I mean, it makes their day all day long, and they look forward to it. The smiles that hit their faces when we walk through the door is unbelievable!"
"It gets 'em riled up!," says Augusta Evans Assistant Principal Asha Kidd. "We have crazy fun, and the children look forward to it every school year."
But these guys aren't through.
Next up?
Little Sisters of the Poor... rock solid fans of carnival, and especially, the Cavaliers!
"Especially the ones that are chair and bed confined," says one worker at the senior care center. "They can't get out. And when you all come in and show them the spirit of the Mardi Gras, it's enjoyable!"
When it comes to carnival, the Conde Cavaliers believe no one should go without .
