Mardi Gras in Mobile predates New Orleans celebration. Founded in 1866, by Joe Cain, immortalized for his one man parade marching amid Union soldiers. The 'family parade' held on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday features a series of floats with revelers throwing beads and the traditional Moon Pies to and at the crowds lining city streets. Everyone, including the police and firemen of Mobile share in the spirit of the parade. Less raucous than New Orleans, Mobile offers a most excellent time had by young and old.