Galveston, Texas… No one needs to miss out on the Mardi Gras experience in Galveston. Moody Gardens will host the Mardi Gras Ball for Special People on Sunday, Feb. 7. Annually celebrated by thousands of people with special needs, this free event is hosted by Moody Gardens and made possible by hundreds of volunteers who contribute their time, supplies and services. 

This year’s theme is Masquerede, and entertainment will include a local Galveston band Mid-Life Crisis.  To make the event free to all attendees, contributions have been made by numerous volunteers, Moody Gardens and other local businesses. Participants can enjoy donated food, refreshments, plenty of beads, clowns, face painters and a dance contest. This year, there will also be a costume contest and costumed characters.

Event volunteers are always welcome to assist with the table set-up, decorations, ushering, serving food and dancing with the guests, Moody Gardens Volunteer Coordinator Maria Miller said. “It’s a win-win situation, because it’s fun for everyone,” she said.

Moody Gardens and the Hope Therapy Program were established by the Moody Foundation in 1982, changing the lives of thousands of people since its inception. In addition to hosting special events such as the Special People’s Ball, SportsFest and Camp Discover Nature, Hope Therapy has focused on Horticulture Therapy, through which individuals with disabilities can improve sensory awareness and motor abilities, regain confidence, and learn new skills to prepare for employment opportunities. The massive greenhouses and the Rainforest Pyramid® at Moody Gardens have been tended in large part by these special clients.

The event is scheduled for 12 noon to 4 p.m. at the Moody Gardens Convention Center Expo A and B. For event registration and volunteer information, please contact Moody Gardens® at 800-582-4673, ext. 4108.

At a Glance

What: 24th Annual Mardi Gras Ball for Special People
When: Sunday, Feb. 7
Where: Moody Gardens Convention Center, Expo A&B
Who: People with special needs and their immediate family or caregivers

RSVP & Information: Must RSVP at 409-683-4108

Volunteers Need: Contact 409-683-4108 to volunteer  

Moody Gardens® is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.