It only took around 45 minutes for a pop-up from Loblolly Bakery in Hattiesburg to completely sell out of King Cake Monday morning in downtown Vicksburg. 

Loblolly Bakery is one of seven eateries owned by restaurateur Robert St. John, including Crescent City Grill, Mahogany Bar, Branch, Tabella, Ed’s Burger Joint and The Midtowner in Hattiesburg. 

St. John is also the author of 13 books, including “An Italian Palate,” which Clinton artist Wyatt Waters illustrated. St. John’s books were also available for purchase Monday at Lorelei Books, just across Washington Street from the pop-up bakery.

Organizer Lori Fagan said the event – which kicked off a week that will culminate Saturday with Vicksburg’s annual Mardi Gras Parade – was a huge success.

“Such a great turnout,” Fagan said. “I understand they sold over 100 King Cakes. At 11:10 a.m., they were selling the last few they had.”

King Cakes have long been a tradition of Carnival season, typically eaten close to Mardi Gras and historically containing a hidden plastic baby. Whoever finds the baby is traditionally considered the “king” or “queen” and becomes responsible for the next seasonal gathering.

Fagan said she was appreciative of Loblolly’s making the trip to the River City.

“Follow Loblolly Bakery on Facebook for their next pop-up in the state,” she said. “King Cake fans can also travel to Hattiesburg to purchase at the Loblolly Bakery location.”