Mardi Gras Parades

Looking for some Mardi Gras Family Fun in New Orleans? Why not help New Orleans kick off the 2019 Carnival Season?

Each year, the 12th night after Christmas marks the beginning of the Mardi Gras season.

Twelfth Night, or the Epiphany, marks the official beginning of the Mardi Gras season on Jan. 6.

The king cake debuts on this day, making its way into homes, offices, and parties until Fat Tuesday (March 5, 2019).

 

Upcoming Parades

Saturday, 02/09

Krewe of Chewbacchus:  @ 7PM, Marigny

• Kick off the Mardi Gras season in the most galactic way possible. If you and your family enjoy science fiction, y’all will have a blast. Fun for all ages – this parade is very new, compared to the traditional Mardi Gras parades, having only started in 2010.
• Its mission? To “save the galaxy by bringing the magical revelry of Mardi Gras to the disenfranchised, socially awkward and generally weird masses who may have never had the opportunity to participate in a mardi gras parade organization.”
• What makes Chewbacchus unique from other Mardi Gras parades is that it is entirely DIY, homemade, homegrown, totally sustainable, GREEN to the gills, and the first true OPEN SOURCE parade.
• Any and ALL sci-fi costumes and themes are welcome, and you can build almost anything you want to roll in the parade.
• ALL parade contraptions must be pushed, pedaled, pulled or powered by electric motors (or particle propulsion) when possible. They utilize tricycles, shopping carts, robotic power chairs, rickshaws, golf carts, and more.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Friday, 02/15

Krewe Bohème:  @ 7PM, French Quarter

• The newly formed Krewe Bohème has the distinct honor of being the very first parade of the Carnival season.
• For their first year parading, the theme will be “La Vie Bohème” and the Supreme Fairy this year will be Vinsantos.
• Parading through the Bywater, Marigny and French Quarter, Krewe Bohème will bring to paradegoers a visual and auditory feast of mystery, artistry and fun.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Saturday, 02/16

Krewe du Vieux: @ 6:30PM, French Quarter

krewedelusion: @ 7PM, French Quarter

• “By establishing a Foundation, appointing a Benevolent Ruler and embracing the forms and traditions of New Orleans’ Satirical parading Krewes, our mission is to save the Universe, beginning at its center – New Orleans.”
• The Big Easy’s newest satirical parade will roll once again through the streets of the Marigny and French Quarter.
• Parade Route

Krewe of Bilge: @ 11AM, Slidell

• Founded by locals in 1978 and now has 400+ members. This is a must-see event in Slidell!
• Has been frequently listed as one of the Top 20 Events by the Southern Tourism Society.
• Some great spots to catch the parade are at The Dock of Slidell off Lakeview Drive, along Highway 11 at Michael’s Restaurant, The Landing, and Tooloula’s, and on the east side of the parade route at the firehouse on Marina Drive.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe Poseidon: @ 6PM, Slidell

• Coed carnival organization dedicated to supporting the community of Slidell through the promotion of social interaction, philanthropy, and advancing the overall quality of life.
• Founded in 2015 by a handful of Slidell residents who envisioned a revitalization of Carnival for the Northshore.
• Aims to provide the citizens of Slidell and the surrounding areas with an exceptional parade indicative of the traditions and history of New Orleans Mardi Gras.
• This year’s theme is “We Will Rock You!” and will feature over 600 riders on 28-30 floats.
• Each float will represent well-known songs such as “Sharp Dressed Man” – (ZZ Top), “Viva Las Vegas” – (Elvis), “Rock n Roll All Nite” – (KISS), as well as songs by Chicago, Elton John, Foreigner, Huey Lewis, Billy Joel, and others!
• More Info
• Parade Route

Sunday, 02/17

Krewe of Little Rascals: @ Noon, Metairie

• America’s longest running, most flamboyant children’s Mardi Gras Krewe in Carnival history.
• “Today’s Little Rascals are Tomorrow’s Leaders and Our Hope for the Future”. This is the motto of the Krewe of Little Rascals, a non-profit organization named after Hollywood’s most famous kids group.
• We are a youth oriented traditional Mardi Gras Ball and Parade, with members ranging in age from 4 – 19 (younger positions are available in the Court).
• The Krewe of Little Rascals Parade annually rolls along Veterans Boulevard from Clearview Shopping Center to the end at Martin Behrman. Our approximately four-mile Parade makes no turns on Severn or Bonnabel. Led by the Sheriff’s vehicles and our KLR Pace Car, the Parade travels the traditional Metairie Parade Route on Veterans Blvd.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Slidellians: @ 1PM, Slidell

• The members of the Slidell Women Civic Club invite you to join us as we kick off the Slidell Mardi Gras season! The Krewe of Slidellians will roll on February 12, 2017 at 1 pm.
• Our parade follows the traditional Slidell route from Salmen High School to Gause near Hobby Lobby.
• Floats are sponsored by local businesses and organizations.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Pearl River Lions Club: @ 1PM, Slidell

• Founded in 1953, the Krewe of Pearl River Lions Club supports the Pearl River Lions Club, a group that provides eye care for those who qualify.
• This beloved day parade in Pearl River is a family affair and the whole town comes out to celebrate together. The krewe rolls with up to 15 floats, the Pearl River High School Band, dance groups, cheerleaders, local clubs, churches, and families – everyone who loves a parade (and who doesn’t?).
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Perseus: @ 1:15PM, follows Krewe of Slidellians

Friday, 02/22

Krewe of Cork: @ 3PM, French Quarter

• “We celebrate Wine! Food! Fun!” says King Patrick van Hoorebeek, speaking of the Krewe of Cork.
• Founded in 2000, the Krewe of Cork has grown into a world famous Mardi Gras and wine industry phenomenon.
• The parade route is a little more than one (1) miles through the heart of the French Quarter.  The parade begins at 3 p.m. in front of The Court of the Two Sisters and ends shortly after 5 p.m. at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Conti Street entrance.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Excalibur: @ 7:30PM, Metairie

• The Krewe of Excalibur’s unique theme takes Mardi Gras to the medieval.

• Our krewe celebrates the best traditions of New Orleans, King Arthur, Queen Guinevere and the Knights of the Round Table.

• Over the years, we have catered to this atmosphere by making our parade a fun time with bands or dance groups between every float, by throwing items specially designed for children (i.e. youth t-shirts, stuffed castles and hand decorated shields), and by having family related socials throughout the year.

• It rides along the NEW Veterans Memorial Blvd. Route in Metairie, LA (about 10 minutes from New Orleans). It’s a safe, family atmosphere that millions of people have enjoyed over the years.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Oshun: @ 6PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1996, the Krewe of Oshun is named for the Yoruba goddess of love and intimacy.

• This parade features marching baby dolls as well as a band contest. Some of their throws include peacock figures and mugs.

• The members of the Krewe of Oshun are involved in year-round entertainment for the whole family as well as community service.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Cleopatra: @ 6:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1972, the first all-female krewe on the West Bank moved to the East Bank in 2012, becoming the first all-female organization on the Uptown route.

• Their motto is: “Her beauty is timeless, her age is now…forever!” In 2018, the women celebrated their 45th anniversary with the theme “Cleopatra’s Animal Kingdom.”

• Named after the Queen of Egypt, the krewe consists of 1,000 members. The fun begins with a Cleopatra Pre-Parade and ends with the post-parade Cleo Jubilee.

• In between, the queen travels down St. Charles Avenue on her royal barge.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Eve: @ 7PM, Mandeville

• In 1986, six local residents decided to form a ladies’ Mardi Gras Parade Krewe. After many weeks of gathering information, they gave a party and invited local women. From this gathering, the Krewe of Eve started with 260 ladies.

• The Krewe of Eve first paraded in Mandeville on February 14, 1987, with their first theme, “Famous Lovers”. In 2011 Eve celebrated their 25th anniversary with the parade on February 25th.

• It is noted for its beautiful parade; Eve members also participate in many community projects.

• Through Eve, our members contribute to Greater Mandeville Police Foundation Gift Give-away and The Food Bank. We have helped with Habitat for Humanity with the Women’s Build. We’re also part of the D.A.R.E. convention.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Saturday, 02/23

Krewe of Caesar: @ 6PM, Metairie

• Founded in 1978, its first parade took place in 1980.
• It is the largest Carnival organization in Jefferson Parish history and was the first to introduce lighted, animated headdresses (1983) at Mardi Gras and has wowed the crowd with neon and fiber-optic floats.
• The krewe’s signature float is the Hydra, a terrifying mythic beast with the body of a serpent and many heads.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Pontchartrain: @ 1PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Organized in 1975 and named after Lake Pontchartrain, which forms the northernmost border of New Orleans.

• Consists of both men and women whose goal is to provide a quality Mardi Gras parade for the citizens of New Orleans and its guests.

• A real New Orleans Mardi Gras organization that parades down some of New Orleans’ most famous streets. The parade route is approximately 5 miles long and takes about 3.5 hours to complete.

• Besides the wide array of bands, horse units, dune buggies, motorcycles, and jesters, our parade has featured some of Mardi Gras’ most memorable floats, such as “Mr. Mudbug” (the world’s largest crawfish) and a giant fish dubbed “The Super Grouper”.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Choctaw: @2PM, follows Krewe of Pontchartrain

• Originally formed as a social organization, Choctaw did not parade until 1939 when ten old U.S. Government mail wagons were purchased from a salvage company for $50.00 each.

• The old stripped-down mail wagons formed the chassis for the first Choctaw carnival parade floats.

• They are a big family, rooted in New Orleans Mardi Gras tradition. This is a family-friendly krewe with something for all.

  More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Freret: @2:30PM, follows Krewe of Choctaw

• In 2011, seven Loyola graduates sought to enhance Carnival by creating a unique parade favoring local vendors and craftspeople.  

• Members also hand-decorate Mardi Gras Masks as coveted signature throws.  The Krewe of Freret values quality keepsakes over quantity.

• The Krewe of Freret was established in New Orleans, Louisiana to support local industry, conduct service events, and preserve the Mardi Gras tradition.

• Dat Dog’s  Krewe of Freret Courtyard has emerged as the preferred meeting space and displays one of their keys to the city.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Knights of Sparta: @ 5:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• The Knights of Sparta originated as a bal masque organization in 1951, staging elaborate tableaus for many years at the Municipal Auditorium.

• In 1981, the Knights began parading in Orleans Parish. The first several parades rolled as Mecca/Sparta, after which the parade, as well as the bal masque, took on the name of The Knights of Sparta.

• The Knights are still known for their elaborate bal masque tableaus and for their traditional, yet innovative, street parade.

• A spectacular signature float, a mule-drawn king’s float, traditional flambeaux, and mounted officers are just a few of the wonderful features of the Knights of Sparta street parade each year.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Pygmalion: @6:15PM, follows Krewe of Sparta

• Founded in 1999 by a group of Carnival veterans who wanted to provide a high-quality parade during the first week of the Mardi Gras Season.
• Our annual parde follows the traditional St. Charles Avenue route, and is the most anticipated events of the Carnival season.  Thousands of people line the streets to catch our colorful floats, captivating marching bands and fantastic throws.
• The Krewe of Pygmalion takes its name from the Greek legend of a Cypress king who sculpted a statue of the sea nymph Galatea. So real and beautiful was the statue to Pygmalion, he fell helplessly in love with it and spent the rest of his life adoring it.
• More Info
• Parade Route

The Mystic Knights of Adonis: @ 11:45AM, Westbank

• Family organized Carnival Krewe that has been together since 1998 on the Westbank of New Orleans.

• Named after the Greek god who was the epitome of male beauty, admired by mortals and gods alike.

• Comprised of around 200 male and female riders; includes 16 floats and several marching bands.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Paws of Olde Towne: @ 10AM, Slidell

• Their goal is to bring awareness to pet rescue and adoption and donate proceeds of the parade to various shelters, rescues groups and animal-loving non-profit organizations.

• Not only are they raising money for these groups, they are having a FUN time and making new friends!

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Titans: @ 6:30PM, Slidell

• Founded by a group of Mardi Gras veterans and has grown to be one of the Northshore’s largest premier Mardi Gras Krewes.

• Coed Mardi Gras organization dedicated to providing the citizens of Slidell and the surrounding areas with a traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras experience in a family friendly atmosphere for people of all ages.

• Takes its name  from a powerful race that ruled the world before olympians, in a time of the golden age of man. they were immortal giants of incredible strength and knowledge of old religion rituals and magic.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Tchefuncte: @ 1PM, Madisonville

• Organized in 1973, the Krewe of Tchefuncte grew out of a love for the Tchefuncte River and the traditions and history of the Town of Madisonville.

• The Krewe celebrates maritime life on the historic river, located on LA-Hwy 22 between Mandeville and Ponchatoula.

• The names of the King and Queen are a closely guarded secret and are not revealed until the Annual Mardi Gras Ball.

• The Krewe of Tchefuncte Parade sails on the Tchefuncte River along the Madisonville RIverfront 2 weekends before Mardi Gras Day.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Olympia: @ 6PM, Covington

• In 1965, a group of friends were having lunch at The Galley Restaurant across from the Covington Courthouse. It was shortly after Mardi Gras, and the conversation turned to the Lions Club parade on Mardi Gras morning in Covington.

• By the end of the meeting, plans were under way to form a carnival organization in Covington. Each participant in the project was given the task of signing up 25 members for the organization. By the end of the week, approximately 100 enthusiastic members had formed the Mystic Krewe of Olympia.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Knights of Nemesis: @ 1PM, Chalmette

• Established in May 2004, when a group of one time members from the Krewe of Gladiators and several long time carnival parade riders came together and formed the Knights of Nemesis Social Club and Parade. It remains St. Bernard Parish’s only active Mardi Gras Parade.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Push Mow: @ 10AM, Abita Springs

• The Krewe of Push Mow was founded by Abita Springs artists who thought it would be funny pushing decorated lawn mowers in a parade – thus the name “Krewe of Push Mow.” The theme this year is “Terrible Theme Park Ideas.”

• All viewers are encouraged to costume. Kids 12 and under can win prizes for their costumes at the down-home Party in the Park. Food and drink will be available for purchase and live music will be performed on the Abita Beer Stage.

• Please note that highways through Abita Springs will close around 10:45. Visitors should arrive early in order to avoid the disruption to the usual traffic flow.

• The organization takes pride in its original themes, humorous floats, marching groups, and costumes. It is produced by the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum and Town of Abita Springs.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Sunday, 02/24

Krewe of Barkus: @ 2PM, French Quarter

• The only Mardi Gras krewe in New Orleans for the canine population. Founded in 1993, the Mystic Krewe of Barkus is a non-profit organization.

• The Mystic Krewe of Barkus was envisioned and created in November 1992 at a meeting of the Margaret Orr (WDSU-TV Weather Anchor) Fan Club held at Good Friends Bar. Thomas Wood brought his dog Jo Jo McWood to the meeting, where people complained about her neurotic ways.

• To get back at them all, Wood decided to make Jo Jo McWood queen of her parade and captain-for-life. Thus, the Krewe of Barkus was born.

  More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Kings: @ 5:30PM, Metairie

• Introducing Metairie’s newest krewe, Krewe of Kings! Join them as they roll February 24th at 5:30PM in Metairie!

• The Krewe of Kings will begin at Bonnabel rolling the Veterans Boulevard route westward to Clearview Center where the parade will roll through the Family Gras festival (new to the Clearview Center in 2019) giving spectators the experience of the pageantry of  Kings along with the music, food and activities of Family Gras.

• More Info
• Parade Route

The Mystic of Krewe of Femme Fatale: @11AM, Uptown New Orleans

• The mission of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale shall be to offer women of all creeds and colors a unique opportunity to promote and support New Orleans’ cultural landscape through participation in the  annual Mardi Gras season, while uplifting the community through various endeavors of engagement, awareness and social enhancement in order to further the growth of the organization.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Carrollton: @ Noon, follows The Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale

• Formed by a group of Oak Street businessmen in 1924, the Krewe had modest beginnings over 80 years ago.

• In 1924, a group calling itself “The Seventh District Carnival Club,” presented its first parade on Mardi Gras day of that year. Parading down Oak Street and around the Carrollton Avenue area of New Orleans, this club would continue to grow and eventually, in 1947, become known as the “Krewe of Carrollton“.

• Carrollton is the Fourth oldest Carnival parading organization, behind (in order) Rex, Proteus, and Zulu.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of King Arthur: @1PM, follows Krewe of Carrollton

• Founded in 1977, it’s a co-ed Mardi Gras Krewe and proud to be one of the most diverse in all of Mardi Gras. They were founded on inclusion and they welcome all who share a love of Mardi Gras.

• Each year, the 1600 Knights of King Arthur parade on the first Sunday of Mardi Gras, commonly known as “Family Sunday” in the Carnival schedule. They are the largest Mardi Gras Krewe on the first weekend of Mardi Gras.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Alla: @2PM, follows Krewe of King Arthur

• Established in 1932, it now welcomes women to join the organization, after adopting Bylaws that remove the krewe’s all-male distinction, which it held for 82 years.

• Founded in Algiers and takes its name for that locale (Al., La.). It parades on the St. Charles Avenue route on the first Sunday of Carnival and is the fifth-oldest parading organization in the New Orleans area.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Dionysus: follows

• Dionysus (or Bacchus in Roman Mythology)  is the ancient Greek God (or Olympian) of winemaking and wine, along with “inspired madness.”

• It is with that in mind that The Krewe of Dionysus was founded in 1985 by a group of Northshore businessmen with the intention of bringing a family oriented old fashioned Mardi Gras good time to the City of Slidell.

• Has around 16 floats, including 11 double-deckers. Dionysus is the premiere, all men’s, carnival krewe in Slidell for over 30 years.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Wednesday, 02/27

Krewe of Druids: @6:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Comprised of Carnival veterans from several other Orleans Parish parading organizations, the Ancient Druids wanted to fill an empty slot on the parade calendar, providing New Orleanians and visitors with a first-class parade one week before Fat Tuesday.

• The Ancient Druids was organized in 1998 and is not related to the Mystic Krewe of Druids, whose parades followed the Rex processions from 1922 to 1935.

• The all-male club is distinctive in that it does not stage a ball or feature a queen and court. Its king is known as the Arch Druid and he is accompanied on the king’s float by a jester.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Nyx: @ 7PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Established to unite women of diverse backgrounds for fun, friendship, and the merriment of the Mardi Gras season.

• Together they enhance the spirit of Carnival for the community by embracing a bit of tradition, while adding new and forward thinking ideas to make our organization unique. Women of all ages deserve to be adored, respected, and allowed to let her inner goddess shine through.

• They will parade immediately following the Ancient Druids parade on the traditional Uptown New Orleans parade route.

• Its official Krewe colors are hot pink and black.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Thursday, 02/28

Knights of Babylon: @ 5:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1939 by a group of professional men who wanted to stage a first class parade for the public and a first class tableau ball for their ladies.

• Many people consider Babylon the kick-off parade for Mardi Gras weekend.

• Other Babylon traditions include keeping the identity of its king, Sargon, secret; likewise, the theme of the parade remains secret until Babylon stages for its traditional uptown route. Sargon, king of Assyria (722-705 b.c.), is reputed to have built the city of Babylon. His namesake reigns over all the proceedings of the Knights of Babylon’s parade and ball.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Knights of Chaos @ 6:15PM, Uptown New Orleans

• The Knights of Chaos was organized during the summer of 2000. The group is made up of veterans of other parading and non-parading Carnival krewes.

• Chaos parades on the Thursday before Fat Tuesday, a night that for more than a century had been known as “Momus Thursday.” (The Knights of Momus paraded from 1872-1992, when they departed the streets).

• Chaos employs Momus floats and presents a satirical parade in the grand Momus tradition.

• Parade Route

Krewe of Muses: @ 6:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• The Krewe of Muses is distinguished as the first all-female Mardi Gras krewe to parade at night uptown New Orleans. In Greek mythology, the Muses are the nine daughters of Zeus.

• No festivity in Olympus was considered complete without their joy-inspiring presence, and on earth no fine art, scientific, or intellectual endeavor was undertaken without humbly seeking their inspiration.

• Centuries later, the Krewe of Muses continues celebrating the wildness and virtues of these goddesses, as well as their place in the mystique of New Orleans.

• Since 2001, known for their year-long commitment to philanthropic works, infamously satirical floats, and, of course, fabulously glittered shoe-themed throws.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Friday, 03/01

Krewe of Centurions: @ 6:30PM, Metairie

• Established in 1979 by a partnership of businessmen from the Harahan-River Ridge area. After a few years of parading, Centurions moved to its current Metairie route.

• Centurions long history and tradition of parading is just one of the many reasons that people keep on coming back.

• More than 300 male and female members strives to make Centurions an organization for all people; that is, a fun, family-oriented experience.

• More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Hermes: @ 5:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1937, Hermes has paraded longer than any other night parading krewe in New Orleans’ Carnival.

• In the 1930’s, when America was still reeling from the effects of the Great Depression, a group of New Orleans businessmen met and devised a solution to the widespread woe that only New Orleanians would: To have a party.

• Or more specifically, to expand the party that was Mardi Gras. They would throw a parade on Friday night, thus making Carnival a longer, five-day celebration.

• More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe d’Etat: @ 6:30PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Emerged in 1996 as the preeminent krewe and now boasts numerous floats with many riders.

• It’s floats adhere to a traditional style of design that impart Le Krewe d’Etat’s satirical theme, which has been voted “Best of Carnival” by critics.

• Also the forerunner in innovative throws, introducing the most prized catch: glow-in-the-dark beads with flashing green eyes!

  More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Morpheus: @ 7PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 2000, one of the premier Co-Ed Mardi Gras Krewes in New Orleans.

• Parading on the Friday night before Mardi Gras day, Morpheus follows the historic route down St. Charles Avenue.

• Signature throws include:  LED Beads, LED Sleepy Time Hats, 3D Cups and Plush Sheep, Moons, Pillows and Bears.  This year the Krewe will feature signature, hand-decorated sleep masks.

• More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Selene: @ 6:30PM, Slidell

• In existence since 1998, founded by a group of local professional women.

• Selene is named after the Greek goddess of the moon from mythology.  She is known for her great beauty as she crosses the night sky, bathing mortals in her rays of light.

• Krewe Color – Blue

• Signature Throw – Hand Decorated Purses

• More Info
• Parade Route

Original Krewe of Orpheus: @ 7PM, Mandeville

• In 1987, eleven businessmen set out to form a new carnival krewe that would bring a first-class parade to Mandeville. Today, more than 30 years later, Orpheus is the Northshore’s premier men’s carnival organization.
• The krewe is famous for its handmade Pineloon throws (a pinecone on a gold double base, sprayed purple, green and gold and sprinkled with gold glitter). Legend has it that those who catch an Orpheus Pineloon and display it in their home will experience good fortune all year long.
• The Original Krewe of Orpheus rolls on the Friday before Mardi Gras every year down the traditional Mandeville route. The official call and response of the hearty Krewe is: “HAIL ORPHEUS”… “HAIL YES”

• More Info

• Parade Route

Saturday, 03/02

Krewe of Isis: @ 6:30PM, Metairie

• In 1972 Joyce Blondeau and a group of Jefferson Parish woman who watched and supported their husband’s involvement in Mardi Gras, decided to form an all woman’s Mardi Gras organization and the Krewe of Athania was formed.

• After a year under this name, the Krewe found a more suitable Mythological Goddess for which to name their Krewe and the Krewe of Isis was born.

• Named after the the feminine archetype for creation – the goddess of fertility and motherhood.

• 43 years later, the Krewe of Isis is the largest and oldest all Female Mardi Gras organization in Jefferson Parish and the oldest consecutively parading traditional Carnival organization in that same parish!

• Parading the Saturday before Fat Tuesday or Super Mardi Gras weekend, the Ladies of the Krewe of Isis, proudly ride the traditional 5.2 mile parade route in Jefferson Parish and are greeted by huge crowds of fans who enjoy watching the tradition of Isis and the Greatest Free Show on Earth!

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Iris: @ 11AM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded almost 100 years ago in 1917, the Krewe of Iris is the oldest all-female Carnival Krewe in New Orleans. Parading on the Saturday before Mardi Gras day, it maintains a global membership of over 1600 active riders.
• First parading in 1959, the Krewe is known for honoring and following traditional Carnival anonymity customs. The riders on their 36 floats always don hand painted masks and traditional white gloves.
• Their namesake, known as both the Goddess of the Rainbow and Messenger to the Gods, has been kind to us, as the Krewe has never cancelled our parade due to inclement weather.
• Their signature throw is custom designed and hand decorated sunglasses because the sun always shines on Iris!

• More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of Tucks: @ 11AM, Uptown New Orleans

• More Info

• Parade Route

Krewe of NOMTOC: @ 10:45AM, Westbank

• In the early sixties the Jugs Social Club, founded in 1951, built floats for All Saints Catholic School parades and became fascinated with the idea of having a Carnival parade of their own. However, it was not until the waning days of 1969 that a permit to have such a parade was granted.

• The Jugs named the parade the Krewe of NOMTOC -New Orleans Most Talked Of Club and incorporated on September 6, 1969. The first parade was held in February 1970 with six floats, six bands, six marching units, one horse group and a motorcycle squadron. Today NOMTOC rolls with 27 floats, 14 bands and several marching and riding groups.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Endymion: @ 4:15PM, Mid-City

• Endymion is one of three Super Krewes, and with more than 3,000 riders it is by far the largest parade with the largest crowds in Mardi Gras! Endymion features 37 floats.
• The motto of the Krewe is “Throw ’til it Hurts” and we estimate that we toss over 15 million throws along the parade route!
• Endymion rolls on the Mid City route and features several signature floats.
• Endymion is the only parade that rides to and through the Mercedes Benz Superdome where the Endymion Extravaganza is held and what a party it is!
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Bush: @ 9AM, Bush

• Fun parade of trucks, boats, floats, horses and ATV’s held on the Saturday before Mardi Gras. Free for your krewe to ride, roll or walk – bring your own throws and line up by 8:30am.

• More Info

• Parade Route

Sunday, 03/03

Krewe of Athena: @ 5:30PM, Metairie

• The Krewe of Athena Carnival Club, Inc. is an all-female Mardi Gras club in the Greater New Orleans area. Spearheaded by a group of Mardi Gras veterans, Krewe of Athena was born out of the desire to create a Mardi Gras organization open to professional women from diverse backgrounds.

• The Krewe of Athena Carnival Club, Inc. exists to promote a sense of community through sisterhood, service, fellowship, and fun.

• Krewe Colors-Lavender and Lime

• Signature Throw-Fedora Hats

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Pandora: @ 6:30PM, Metairie

• The newest all female Mardi Gras Krewe in Jefferson Parish and a diverse group of women who are thrilled with making new friends and enjoying the excitement of the Mardi Gras season in a fabulous and friendly environment for all to enjoy.

• As the power of Hope is released, the Krewe of Pandora will create the treasure of everlasting friendships and memories amongst its members that will live on for eternity.

• Krewe Colors: Tiffany Blue & Black

• Signature Throw:  Hand glittered/decorated boxes
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Okeanos: @ 11AM, Uptown New Orleans

• Organized in 1949 by civic-minded business leaders who were eager to bring a Carnival parade to St. Claude Avenue, their neighborhood’s main street.

• Named for the Greek god of oceans and fertile valleys and is sponsored by the Sonaeko (Okeanos spelled backwards) Club.

• Okeanos presented its first ball and parade in 1950. The original parade route has changed, they now roll on the extended Uptown Route.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Mid-City: @ 11:45AM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1933, it’s the 5th oldest continuously parading organization in New Orleans.
• The first parade included six small floats drawn by mules, a handful of marching bands, and riders on horse back.
• The Krewe of Mid-City has remained famous over the decades for having the best marching bands from across America, as well for the unique designs of the floats, which are decorated in colored aluminum foil.
• As an early innovator of float design, the Krewe of Mid-City was the first parade to introduce animation to carnival floats.
• Today the Krewe annually features 250 riders and more than a dozen marching bands.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Thoth: @ Noon, Uptown New Orleans

• Thoth entered the Carnival picture in 1947 with 50 members and five floats.

• The group of men who founded the Krewe created an uptown neighborhood route designed to pass in front of 14 institutions that care for persons with disabilities and illnesses and were not able to attend other parades in the City.

• Now with over 1600 riders and 50 floats, Thoth continues with a unique route designed to pass in front of several extended healthcare facilities.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Bacchus: @ 5:15PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1968 by a handful of New Orleans business leaders whose dream was to revitalize Carnival.

• The original Krewe of Bacchus was the brainchild of Owen Edward Brennan, Sr., a true visionary.

• In the late 1940’s, Brennan realized that a large segment of his clientele was seasonally unhappy-namely tourists to the Mardi Gras. At that time, Carnival balls at Mardi Gras were predominately closed to anyone outside of New Orleans’ society circles.

• So, In 1949, Brennan decided to spend an enormous amount of money, buck the entrenched New Orleans Society, and revolutionize the Mardi Gras. He did so by creating a brand new Krewe, called the Krewe of Bacchus, wide open to tourists.

• In 1969, the Krewe of Bacchus staged its first Mardi Gras parade. The 250 member, 15 float entourage took to the streets of New Orleans showering thousands of spectators with over a million strings of beads and 300,000 doubloons. The new parade was a smashing success.

• Now, with more than 1,500 members and 33 animated super-floats, it’s revered as one of the most spectacular Krewes in Carnival history.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Monday, 03/04

Krewe of Proteus: @ 5:15PM, Uptown New Orleans

• The 2nd oldest Parade at New Orleans Mardi Gras. Founded in 1882, Proteus (“PROH tee us”) the shepherd of the Oceans, is an early sea-god, one of several deities whom Homer the Old Man of the Sea has always held elaborate masked Tableau Balls and the most beautiful Street Parade to date.

• In 1893 the Krewe first introduced the tradition of call outs, where masked costumed Krewe members invited ladies in attendance to step out on the dance floor with them. This custom was then adopted by many other Krewes including Rex.

• The Identity of the King of Proteus is never revealed to the public. His Parade float is a giant Seashell and very march part of the New Orleans Carnival scene for generations.

• The actual Krewe of Proteus parade floats are still using the original chassis from the early 1880’s.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Orpheus: @ 6PM, Uptown New Orleans

• Founded in 1993 by a small group including Harry Connick, Jr. and Captain Sonny Borey.

• Derives its name from the mortal Orpheus, son of the god Apollo and the muse Calliope.

• One of the city’s “super krewes”, Orpheus is consciously nonexclusive and New Orleans most diverse krewe boasting 1,300 members from all walks of life.

• Known for the most beautiful floats in Mardi Gras, the Orpheus parade is led by a cadre of Riding Lieutenants and the Orpheus Trojan Horse float followed by the 1,400 male and female krewe members enjoying their prestigious ride on one of 38 floats, including the Signature eight unit Smokey Mary “Steam Locomotive” float and the Leviathan, a three unit 139 foot “Sea Monster” float.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Tuesday, 03/05

Krewe of Argus: @ 10AM, Metairie

• Founded in 1972 by several civic-minded Jefferson Parish businessmen and rolls on Mardi Gras Day in the New Orleans Metropolitan Area. Over one million family-oriented spectators line the Veterans Boulevard route in Metairie, Louisiana to catch our assortments of specialty throws.

• Comprised of over 450 riders- male, female, and children- as well as guest Celebrities and Marching Bands.

• Argus was named after the God of Greek Mythology, Argus, the all-seeing with one hundred eyes.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Elks Jefferson: @ 11AM, follows Krewe of Argus

• Founded in 1974, The Krewe of Elks-Jeffersonians is sponsored by the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks, a worldwide fraternal society dedicated to charitable deeds.
• Comprised of 4,000 male and female riders and featuring more than 90 trucks, it is the oldest and largest of the all the truck krewes in Jefferson Parish.
• The Krewe of Elks-Jeffersonians share their mascot Elroy the Elk with their sister krewe the Krewe of Elks
• Parade Route

Krewe of Jefferson: @ 11:30AM, follows Krewe of Jefferson

• The Krewe of Jefferson Mardi Gras Truck Parade is the oldest truck parade in Metairie Louisiana.  They have over 3500 members and 75 truck floats that parade on Mardi Gras Day.

• They are a family friendly parade focused on providing fun for people of all ages.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Zulu: @ 8AM, Uptown New Orleans

• The Zulu organization is proud of its standing in the local community, but also takes pride in its national and international standing. The Zulu organization has been the subject of numerous television documentaries and newsprint and magazine articles.
• King Zulu 1949, Louis Armstrong, graced the pages of Time Magazine that year. Essence devoted a full half-hour segment of their weekly television series to Zulu’s impact on Carnival. Hordes of feature stories and photo essays have been done by international publications.
• Early in 1909, a group of laborers who had organized a club named “The Tramps,” went to the Pythian Theater to see a musical comedy performed by the Smart Set. The comedy included a skit entitled, “There Never Was and Never Will Be a King Like Me,” about the Zulu Tribe. That is how Zulu began, as the many stories go.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Rex: @ 10AM, Uptown New Orleans

• Rex entered the picture in 1872. New Orleans was struggling to recover from the lingering effects of the civil war, and divisions and isolation prevailed. At the same time, many city leaders saw the need to bring some order to the chaotic street parades of Mardi Gras day.

• The first Rex Parade bore little resemblance to the Rex Processions of later years. Rex rode a horse, not a float. The parade that followed was made up largely of the informal maskers and marchers who were on the streets anyway.

• The Rex Procession today is true to the long tradition of rich themes, elegant design, and floats built with traditional materials and designs. Most of Rex’s floats are built on old wooden wagons with wood-spoked wheels.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Elks Orleans: @ 10:30AM, follows Krewe of Rex

• The Krewe of Elks Orleans follows Rex down St. Charles Ave with 50 individually designed truck floats carrying 4,600 male and female riders.
• Founded in 1935, the Krewe of Elks Orleans is the oldest and largest of all the truck float krewes.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Crescent City: @ 11AM, follows Krewe of Elks Orleans

• Founded in 1947 and is the second oldest of the truck parades.

• There are typically 60 to 75 trucks with approximately 2,500 to 3,500 riders.  The Krewe does not set an overall theme but instead, each truck bears its own title and theme.

• The Krewe of Crescent City follows The Krewe of Elks-Orleans and is the last parade in Orleans Parish.

• The Krewe signals the official “beginning of the end” of the Carnival season.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Lyra: @ 10AM, Covington

• The 2nd oldest Parade at New Orleans Mardi Gras. Founded in 1882, Proteus (“PROH tee us”) the shepherd of the Oceans, is an early sea-god, one of several deities whom Homer the Old Man of the Sea has always held elaborate masked Tableau Balls and the most beautiful Street Parade to date.

• In 1893 the Krewe first introduced the tradition of call outs, where masked costumed Krewe members invited ladies in attendance to step out on the dance floor with them. This custom was then adopted by many other Krewes including Rex.

• The Identity of the King of Proteus is never revealed to the public. His Parade float is a giant Seashell and very march part of the New Orleans Carnival scene for generations.

• The actual Krewe of Proteus parade floats are still using the original chassis from the early 1880’s.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Folsom: @ 1:30PM, Folsom

• This eclectic krewe invites the public to participate in its parade of decorative floats, vintage vehicles, four wheelers, cars, trucks, horses, horse drawn wagons, vintage tractors, and RV’s.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Krewe of Chahta: @ 1PM, Lacombe

• Began as an idea among a few friends gathered in 1989 at a local watering hole called The Morocco Room, according to the organization’s history.
• The parade features floats, cars, marching units and horse groups.
• The first parade was held that same year, and the krewe has presented an annual Carnival ball since 1996, except 2006.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Past Parades

Saturday, 01/05

Fools of Misrule:  @ 6PM, Covington

• This festive Northshore marching parade, founded in 2011, features flambeaux, a brass band and costumed revelers. It’s every bit as impressive as any parade of its kind in the city itself.

• Their rituals are derived from an ancient English men’s group that clamored along the evening streets, creating unruliness with cowbells and whips while delivering jeers and spankings to those caught on the street unaware.

• The Fools of Misrule integrated “St. John” into its name to pay homage to the historic St. John District of old Covington where the group was founded and conducts its bawdy procession.

• The krewe is led by the “Lord of Misrule.”  Their slogan is “Vivere Vitam Omnino – Live Life Completely.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Sunday, 01/06

Krewe of Joan of Arc:  @ 6PM, French Quarter

• An annual walking parade that takes place throughout New Orleans’ French Quarter.

• Parade-goers can be spotted in medieval attire reminiscent of 1400s France. Costumes, music, jugglers, characters on horseback, knights and much more will be present within the parade’s route. Throughout the parade they will have plenty of King Cake to share with viewers.

• The St. Joan of Arc was known for liberating the citizens our city’s namesake, Orleans, France,  from British siege. The city commemorates her military heroism with a statue in the French Market and the Krewe of Joan of Arc. All are welcome to participate and celebrate with the commemorative Krewe.

• More Info
• Parade Route

Société Des Champs Elysée:  @ 7:30PM, French Quarter

• The Societé des Champs Elysée is a Social Aid and Benevolent Krewe dedicated to the betterment of the neighborhoods along the cross formed by the Elysian Fields and Saint Claude/ Henriette Dellille, and thus, the world.

• New Orleans’ newest Mardi Gras Krewe rides 12th Night on the downtown streetcar line.
• More Info
• Parade Route

Phunny Phorty Phellows:  @ 7PM, Uptown New Orleans

• The Phunny Phorty Phellows (or “PPP”) are generally considered the heralds of carnival! The Phellows are a historic Mardi Gras organization that first took to the streets 1878 through 1898.

• They were known for their satirical parades and today’s krewe members’ costumes often reflect topical themes. The group was revived in 1981.

• More Info
• Parade Route