NATCHEZ — After parading in the rain last week, playing in the snow seemed a step up.

The Krewe of Phoenix rolled out approximately 25 floats in its 28th parade with about an inch of snow still on the ground.

“There is always a first for everything,” said Anthony Heildelberg, who was riding in the Krewe of Indians float. “But the only thing that will stop us is a hurricane or a tornado.”

Debby Ellis, who has lived in Wyoming, has experienced parades in the snow before.

“Typically, it is cold and exhilarating,” she said. “Very wonderful.”

Curtis Waller, who was claiming a good spot on the corner of Main and Pearl streets, said the snow would enhance the fun of the parade.

“The kids come out here to play in the snow, and at the same time they get to catch some beads,” Waller said. “It’s a two for one.”

Gayle Henry said she was looking forward to this parade, and a thinner crowd.

“I’m gonna catch more beads,” she smiled.

However, many people on the floats, including Mark Carter, who was on the Krewe of Mayhem float, said he would be looking for children first when he tosses beads.

“Especially the smaller ones,” Carter said.

Scanning the crowds for the smaller children was a philosophy shared by Yvette Hanes, who was part of a general entry float.

“But I’ll also look for people having a good time, being nice, with smiling faces,” she said.

Jamie Tyson said he was planning on catching the most beads, until he looked down at his friend’s 2-year-old daughter.

“Well, Ivy is going to be the bead leader tonight, but I’ll be a close second,” he said.

Originally from Natchez, Anna Saterstorm and Lucy Dixon, of Nashville and Gulfport respectively, view Natchez as a get away.

“We come here as often as we can for the parade,” Saterstorm said.

“It is absolutely worth it,” Dixon said. “Thanks to the weather, the parade is going to enhance all of the senses.”

Ellis said her daughter opted to stay home due to the cold.

“But I told her to stay there — I’ll go out and enjoy the parade and this beautiful day,” she said. “It’ll be a nice end to a lovely day.”