Paige Raun.

The Knights of Momus, Galveston’s oldest krewe, kicked off the first weekend of Mardi Gras with the President’s Welcome Reception and Cocktail Party at The Tremont House in the Davidson Ballroom on Feb. 2 and the Coronation Ball on Feb. 3. Highlighting the weekend was the presentation of 24 duchesses at The Grand 1894 Opera House as Momus saluted “Galveston Island: Queen City of the Gulf.” The crowning of King Frivolous CIII James Elliott McLean, owner of an accounting practice in Bellaire, and Momus Queen Arielle Lisette Brown, a senior at Rice University, marked the special occasion. Photos by Rhea’s Photographic Art

Knights of Momus Queen Ari Brown and King Frivolous CIII James McLean.

Lauren Hogan and Robert Hogan.

Bryan and Michelle Ritchey.

Knights of Momus President Scott Livanec and his wife, Martha.

Abbie Johnson, Haley Honroe, Katelyn Ellis and Molly Fix.

Scott and Margie Kusnerik.

Joan and Doug McLeod.

Quincy Seigel, Melissa Crowder, Ari Brown, Kaleigh Coltzer and Alexanne Aldape.

Cara Koza, Hayley Hardcastle and Carrie Zendeh Del.

Jonathan and Carrie Zendeh Del and Macy and Mayes Middleton.

Jocelyn and Billy Sullivan, Eryn Ebaugh and Joanie Kirksey.