Outdoor Mardi Gras beads and mask on light post in sunshine
Real Event Stories

Mystery, Mayhem, and Mardi Gras: The Epic Krewe de Hou & Thrive Gala at The Woodlands Resort

Jimmy Enloe
January 25, 2026
14 min read
Proud to Support: Thrive Center for Success - A Montgomery County Charter School

What happens when you combine a James Bond heist, iconic 80s and 90s pop culture characters, a laser show, a boat gun battle, and Mardi Gras beads flying through the air?

You get the Krewe de Hou & Thrive Gala at The Woodlands Resort, and honestly, it was one of the most wildly entertaining events we've ever had the privilege of being part of.

But beyond the spectacle, this wasn't just a party—it was a mission. The KREWE de HOU Foundation partnered with Thrive Center for Success, a Montgomery County charter school supporting children and families in need, to raise funds for autism education and support services. Every over-the-top moment served a greater purpose.

If you've ever wondered what luxury event entertainment looks like when it's cranked up to eleven while also making a real difference, this gala gave everyone in attendance a masterclass. Let's break down how this night unfolded, because trust us, you're going to want to hear about this one.

The Setup: Mardi Gras Never Dies

The KREWE de HOU Foundation threw their Third Annual Mardi Gras Ball on January 24, 2026, and this year's theme was "Mardi Gras Never Dies", with a high-stakes, James Bond-inspired twist.

The Woodlands Resort served as the perfect backdrop for an evening dripping with glamour, intrigue, and philanthropy. This wasn't just a party. It was a full-blown theatrical production designed to raise funds for Thrive Center for Success—and raise funds it did.

Here's what guests walked into:

  • Open bar flowing all night long
  • No food (yes, really—liquid courage only)
  • State-of-the-art production with DJ Supa Dave keeping the energy electric
  • A mystery plot that would make any spy movie proud

And that plot? Someone stole the key to the vault containing the check for Thrive. The mission for the evening: figure out who did it while being entertained by some of the most iconic characters in pop culture history.

Act One: The Ceremony and the Crime

The evening kicked off with the National Anthem, setting a tone of pride and celebration before the real chaos began.

Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the crowning of the King and Queen. The 2026 Royal Court took their places, and beads started flying through the crowd. Classic Mardi Gras energy. Pure joy. Absolute celebration.

But here's where things got interesting.

The announcement dropped: someone had stolen the key to the vault. The check for Thrive was locked inside, and without that key, the entire purpose of the gala—supporting children and families through Thrive Center for Success—was at risk.

Cue the investigation. Cue the characters. Cue the entertainment that had every single guest glued to the unfolding drama.

Carmen San Diego Enters the Chat

First up? Carmen San Diego herself, flanked by a full dance crew.

The iconic thief-turned-educator (depending on how you remember the franchise) made her entrance with the energy of someone who definitely knows where in the world the key might be. Her crew performed to "Thief to Know a Thief" vibes, and honestly, if anyone was going to crack this case, you'd think it was her.

The choreography was tight. The costumes were on point. And the crowd? Eating it up.

Ace Ventura: When the Dog Ate the Evidence

If you thought Carmen San Diego was entertaining, the Ace Ventura skit might have stolen the whole show.

Here's the story: Charlie told the Angels that the dog ate the key to the safe.

Yes. The dog ate the key.

The performer channeling Jim Carrey's legendary pet detective absolutely nailed it. The physical comedy, the facial expressions, the absurdity of it all—guests were crying laughing. This wasn't your typical gala entertainment. This was luxury event entertainment that understood one thing: people want to be surprised, delighted, and thoroughly entertained.

Secret Agents, Laser Shows, and Boat Gun Battles

Just when you thought the night couldn't get more cinematic, the secret agents arrived.

We're talking:

  • Airplane drop entrance (yes, really)
  • A full laser show that transformed The Woodlands Resort into a spy thriller set
  • Guests boarding boats for a gun battle sequence

This wasn't a gala. This was an experience. The kind of immersive, theatrical entertainment that makes guests talk about your event for years.

If you're planning a wedding or corporate event in Houston and you're thinking "I want something different"—this is the level of production that's possible. As a wedding DJ in Houston, Texas, we see firsthand how couples are craving unique, memorable entertainment. Events like this prove that the bar can be raised way higher than most people imagine.

Inspector Gadget and the Theme Song Dance

Inspector Gadget showed up next with his own dance crew, and they performed to the classic theme song that had every 80s and 90s kid in the room singing along.

Go-go-gadget dance moves? They delivered.

The nostalgia was real. The execution was flawless. And the energy in the room kept climbing higher and higher.

Austin Powers: The Moment Everyone Lost It

Let's talk about Austin Powers.

This performer came out swinging—funny, charismatic, and completely committed to the bit. The theme song dance was solid. The comedy was on point.

And then?

He stripped down to his boxers.

The crowd went absolutely wild. Women were screaming. The energy was through the roof.

But wait—it got better. Girls came out after him in a full "Studio 69" moment, transitioning into a Beyoncé-style performance that had every single person on their feet. This is what we mean when we talk about luxury wedding entertainment that goes beyond the ordinary. This is the kind of production that creates moments. Real, unforgettable, "did that really just happen?" moments.

Charlie's Angels Take Charge

The final act brought out Charlie's Angels to close the mystery.

Their message was clear: if no one else was going to solve this, they'd do it themselves.

The performers transitioned the crowd seamlessly from theatrical entertainment into open dancing on the floor. The investigation was over. The key was recovered. Thrive Center for Success would get their check—funds that will go directly to supporting children and their families in Montgomery County.

And now? It was time to party. DJ Supa Dave took over, and the dance floor exploded. Mission accomplished.

Watch the 360 Videos from the Gala!

Want to see the energy in action? Check out our exclusive 360 video gallery from the Krewe de Hou & Thrive Gala.

View 360 Video Gallery

Why This Matters for Your Next Event

So why are we—a wedding DJ in Houston, Texas—writing about a Mardi Gras charity gala?

Because events like this showcase what's possible when you invest in entertainment that tells a story. When you hire vendors who understand production, pacing, and the art of keeping a crowd engaged from start to finish.

Whether you're planning:

  • A luxury wedding at a Houston-area resort
  • A corporate gala that needs to wow clients
  • A fundraiser that actually gets people excited to give (like raising money for Thrive Center for Success)

The principles are the same. Great entertainment isn't just music. It's experience design. It's theatrical moments. It's understanding how to build energy, create surprises, and leave guests talking about your event forever.

If you're curious about how we can bring this level of creativity to your wedding or event, send us an inquiry. We love collaborating on ideas that push boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Enloe Entertainment provide theatrical entertainment for weddings?

Absolutely. From choreographed moments to special effects like cold sparks and dancing on clouds, we work with couples to create personalized, show-stopping experiences. Check out our 360 photo booth for another way to add excitement.

Q: Can you DJ corporate events and galas, not just weddings?

Yes! We handle corporate events, military events, and private parties throughout the Houston area. Visit our military events page to learn more about our specialized services.

Q: What makes luxury wedding entertainment different from standard DJ services?

Luxury entertainment focuses on the full experience: production design, lighting, timing, and creating moments that feel cinematic. It's not just about playing songs. It's about crafting an unforgettable night.

Ready to Create Your Own Unforgettable Event?

If the Krewe de Hou & Thrive Gala taught us anything, it's that entertainment has no ceiling. The only limit is imagination.

Whether you're envisioning a James Bond-inspired wedding reception, a gala with character performances, or simply a dance floor that never stops moving—we're here to help make it happen.

Let's Plan Something Extraordinary

From charity galas to dream weddings, we bring the energy, creativity, and professionalism your event deserves.

Inquire With Us Today