Mardi Gras, Bend-style: Friday marks Day One of first-ever Bendi Gras

(Update: Adding video, comments from organizers)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- Friday marked the first day of Bendi Gras, bringing Mardi Gras to the High Desert.

"Mardi Gras in general is a community-wide effort," organizer Ruth Vernotico said Friday. "And it's something that I think really helps establish a sense of levity and fun and celebration in the entire community."

The inaugural Bendi Gras combines New Orleans culture and Bend's mountain culture, with events spanning from the Central District to Mt. Bachelor.

For Vernotico, the celebration has a special place in their heart.

"I lived in New Orleans for 20 years, and I understand intrinsically how special that celebration is and how much it brings the community together. And I think right now, more than ever, we need something that's going to bring us all together. "

According to Visit Bend, this year's three-day-long events will bring in over $800,000 in revenue for local businesses, as the organization looks to revitalize new districts in the city.

"Visit Bend is thrilled to welcome the inaugural Bendi Gras and proud to support it through the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund,” said Zavier Borja, Visit Bend’s Director of Destination Stewardship. “Bendi Gras brings a fresh, vibrant energy to Bend. Think Mardi Gras meets mountain town, while creating an inclusive space for locals and visitors alike."

Sean Lawrence, General Manager of Dogwood at the Pine Shed says they're excited to be part of revitalization in Bend. "It's really cool to be on the forefront of bringing, new and exciting things to different areas of Bend."

The first day of Bendi Gras ends with a party at Dogwood, the recently opened bar in Bend's newly revived Central District. The area has been at the center of the city's homeless crisis in months past.

"Come experience it here for yourself. Don't you know, feed into the fear-mongering of a certain neighborhood or what you read or see - like, just come hang out and experience it," added Lawrence.

And the big event, a huge dance party with special guest Big Freida.

"That cultural heritage of New Orleans bounce music is pretty exceptional, and to be able to bring that here, it just feels like a no-brainer," added Vernotico.