As a warm-up to the many energetic and colorful downtown Pensacola Mardi Gras festivities, the Palafox Market is offering a special must-see event of its own.

On Saturday, February 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Palafox Market is hosting a special Mardi Gras-themed market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A highlight of the morning's activities includes a special musical performance by the 9th Avenue Brass Band Second Line.

The band's colorful musical parade will start at 11 a.m. near Wright Street. From there it will wind its way through Palafox Market and continue south to the market's second home at Plaza Ferdinand.

Free trolley service will be available between the Palafox and Plaza Ferdinand markets, with Mardi Gras beads provided to riders.

The more than 200 vendors at the two markets will be offering Mardi Gras-themed merchandise, king cakes and decor, along with fresh produce, jewelry, books, hot foods, drinks, beauty and health items and much more.

For the kids, a special make-your-own Mardi Gras mask booth will be open at Plaza Ferdinand.

City on-street parking will be free throughout the day.

Please note: Palafox, between Garden and Main streets, is closed to all vehicular traffic due to construction.  Pedestrian sidewalk access to Palafox storefronts is open.