Krewe of Nereids rolls along with legacy of family, fun

It’s Carnival season in Waveland, home of the annual Krewe of Nereids Mardi Gras parade.

Grand Marshal Nancy Gex said Nereids was established in 1966, making the krewe 55 years old. The first parade was held in 1967.
“we established the Nereids in 1966 so this is 55 years. We had the first parade in 1967.”

The parade has become a tradition in Hancock County that continues to gain popularity.

“It’s bigger and better than ever. it’s amazing how it has grown since 1966 believe me,” Gex said.

Every year, Nereids attacts some familiar faces and is welcoming to newcomers.

Kumiko Robertson, a first-time paradegoer, said at 89, Nereids was her Mardi Gras parade.

Robertson moved from Japan to Waveland to be closer to her daughter. Family is part of what makes the Nereids parade so popular.

On our parade route and in our crew, you will have two or three generations of family members riding in that parade together. So it’s just a wonderful way for families to come together in a enjoy the season,” said Dina Hitt Rosetti.

Dr. James C Crittenden said many people bring children to the parade.
“A lot of people bring their kids,” he said. “We’ve always brought ours. Our grandkids are with us today from Boonville and got two here in Hancock County they’re here, too.”

The legacy of the Nereids parade is one that Hancock County holds close to their hearts.

“It was started in Waveland on Coleman Avenue by a group of ladies and one of them who is the grand marshal today, Nancy Gex, I think she might be the last remaining original member of Nereids,” said Waveland Mayor Jay Trapani. “So it makes it special to the people of Waveland because it started on Coleman Avenue in Waveland.”

Gex may be keeping the legacy of the Krewe of Nereids alive, but she said she’s not alone.

“I’m the last surviving founder,” she said. “It makes me feel very happy that I’m still here but you know it’s strange I can feel the others here with me I know they’re here, too.”

It’s safe to say that this celebration is definitely one for the ages, but it does come with some twists — including a throw that could be dinner.