Saraland never had a mystic society or Mardi Gras parade that anyone can seem to remember. So when one person posed the possibility on social media, response was swift and positive. Suddenly the person who proposed the idea became the founder and president of the Saraland Mardi Gras Society in 2018, and that spawned the Krewe of Sparta, a co-ed mystic society. Named after the Saraland High School Spartans, the Krewe of Sparta has an emblem, known simply as The Messenger, and has a king and queen each year. The cap on membership is 200. The organization emphasizes community service and has already taken on several projects, from donating supplies to local schools to taking part in the Adopt-a-Mile program.
In 2026, the krewe is represented by King Robert, Queen Jennifer, Shield Maiden Carol, Shield Maiden Niki, Valkyrie Jamie, Jarl Jim and Jarl Jeremy. Costumes are by Angelia Ramskog. The 2026 parade theme is “Born to be Wild.” Expect 45 units, including three floats rented from the Mobile Mystics, plus dance teams, military marchers, baton twirlers, marching bands, classic cars and more.
The 2025 Krewe of Sparta parade was held on March 1 at noon. It included four floats rented from the Mobile Mystics. Grand Marshal was University of Alabama football phenom, Ryan Williams.
