Fridley seniors let the good times roll as they celebrated Mardi Gras at the Fridley Community Center on Tuesday, February 13. More than 75 seniors attended this year’s event, hosted annually by Fridley Community Education’s Senior Program.

“You could really feel the joy in the room,” said Stephen Keeler, director of Fridley Community Education. “It’s just a fun time with our beloved senior citizens in Fridley.”

Fridley High School’s jazz band kicked off the event performing New Orleans jazz standards while seniors enjoyed sweet treats and refreshments. After the performance, attendees had the opportunity to play bingo or blackjack, with local officials like Fridley Mayor Scott Lund and Fridley Police Chief Ryan George acting as dealers.

“There was some gentle ribbing about losing fake money at blackjack,” Keeler admitted. “But it was all in good fun. I would say it was one of the best Mardi Gras events yet.”

Since becoming director of Fridley Community Education in 2018, Keeler has been encouraged by the increased attendance at senior program events, from annual celebrations like the Fall Kickoff and the Holiday Dinner, to weekly activities like Movie Tuesdays and Bingo Thursdays. The program’s growth has been led by input from seniors, with Community Education staff welcoming feedback to ensure they continue to offer activities and events seniors enjoy.

“We are always looking to see and hear from more of our seniors,” Keeler said. “Please come to the Fridley Community Center and give us a try. You’ll be glad you did. We want to see our seniors thriving in Fridley.”

To learn more about senior programs in Fridley Public Schools, please visit https://commed.fridleyschools.org/adults-seniors/senior-program