For Jeff and Marie Butler, the journey to the Royal Float was paved with resilience and a persistent “cupcake” quest. Recently crowned as the 2026 Lighthouse Krewe King and Queen, the couple sat down to share their story of moving to Crystal Beach, their deep-rooted love for community service, and what makes this year’s Mardi Gras celebration on the peninsula truly special.
A New Chapter in Crystal Beach
Originally from Baytown, the Butlers spent their working years deeply embedded in their local community, from Boy Scouts and church groups to the Baytown Little Theater. While they had purchased land on the peninsula years before, their transition to full-time island life was nearly derailed by Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
“The house here was finished in 2017, but Harvey ruined our house in Baytown,” Jeff recalls. With 42 inches of water in their primary residence, the couple lived in a small upstairs apartment while rebuilding, finally making their permanent move to Crystal Beach in December 2018.
Seeking the same sense of community they left behind, they were drawn to the Lighthouse Krewe by the welcoming nature of its members. “We like being involved in community things,” says Marie. “We didn’t have a community of friends down here yet… the Krewe changed that.”
The “Baby in the Cupcake”
Becoming Mardi Gras royalty isn’t just about a crown; it’s a game of chance and dedication. The Butlers ran for the titles five times before fate finally intervened at the annual royalty brunch.
“Finally found the baby in the cupcake!” Marie laughs.
The process is a local tradition: six couples (the Court) volunteer for the responsibility, and a local baker hides a small plastic baby in one of six identical cupcakes. Whoever finds the baby is named King or Queen. This year, Jeff found the prize, and naturally, he chose his wife, Marie, to reign alongside him.
More Than Just a Parade
While the popular Mardi Gras Parade is the crown jewel of their reign, the Butlers emphasize that the Lighthouse Krewe is a year-round philanthropic force. The organization’s expanding reach supports:
- Local Fire Departments: Donating to all three local stations (High Island, Crystal Beach, and Port Bolivar).
- Education: Continuing the Anne Willis legacy of High Island student scholarships.
- Community Icons: Supporting the Point Bolivar Lighthouse restoration and the local rodeo arena.
- Local Events: Volunteering at the Crab Festival and “Ghosts on the Coast.”
The 2026 Parade Highlights
- The Theme: A romantic nod to the calendar, as the Saturday before Fat Tuesday falls on Valentine’s Day.
- The Scale: Approximately 85 to 90 entries are expected, including a new “golf cart fleet” from Camp Margaritaville.
- Dignitaries: State Representative Terri Leo-Wilson is slated to join the procession in her Corvette.
- The Atmosphere: Jeff describes it as “the best-smelling parade in the world” thanks to the miles of tailgaters cooking briskets and ribs along the route.
Letting the Good Times Roll
The festivities don’t end when the floats reach Gregory Park. The Butlers invite everyone—members and the public alike—to join the Post-Parade Pub Crawl starting at 2:00 PM at Tia Juanita’s.
For Jeff and Marie, the titles of King and Queen are an “honor and a blessing.” As they prepare to lead the 2026 celebration, their message to visitors is simple: “Get there early, bring an appetite, and get ready to celebrate a community that knows how to “let the good times roll.”
Jim Denys
February 10, 2026 at 8:12 amGreat focus story on our beloved King and Queen perhaps the most persistent on our 35 year history.
Carlis Cole
February 10, 2026 at 10:43 amPerfect King and Queen👍👍