Audrey Janette puts another strand of beads around her neck as the floats make their way past the row of students. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Emily Carol Loy and Ella Grace Heflin pull their Mike the Tiger float along the parade route. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Queen Ali Haile and King Daulton Harveston lead the parade and set the tone for the celebration. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

Drake Cox pulls his float complete with a sculpture and sound system. (Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)

(Ben Hillyer / The Natchez Democrat)