After two straight years of disappointing turnouts because of bad weather, Albany’s annual Mardi Gras music street festival once again saw thousands descend on the city’s downtown Saturday to enjoy good music, good food and — in typical Mardi Gras fashion — good times.

The party kicked off at noon beneath blue skies and ideal temperatures in the mid-60s as the Evergreen Family Band, one of nine musical acts that performed throughout the day, welcomed those who arrived early.

By mid-afternoon, the 100 block of Pine Avenue was filled with visitors and families who were strolling and dancing in the streets as a bright spring sun shone down and a myriad of musical styles filled the air.

“It’s great, we couldn’t have asked for better weather,” said volunteer Teresa Smith of Albany’s Thronateeska Heritage Center as the sky turned toward dusk. “All the vendors have been very happy and there’s so much to do. It’s just great to be downtown.”

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