Local’s Weekend During Mardi Gras

Parades

Mardi Gras Parade Krewe’s are social organizations and each has a unique history and theme. Some krewe’s have been around for decades, while others have been in existence for just a few years. If you're lucky, some of the Krewe’s have signature glitter throw’s. Parade days are a commitment, many of these parades have multiple floats, marching bands, dance clubs so there is lots to see and catch!

Before you arrive download one of these parade apps. They are helpful to see the schedule and also to track the parades. WDSU Parade App (Apple only) or WWL Parade Tracker (Apple or Android)

Friday - Night Time Parades

• Krewe of Oshun - Founded in 1996, the Krewe of Oshun is named for the Yoruba goddess of love and intimacy. The Krewe of Oshun has 300 riders with 20 floats.

• Krewe of Cleopatra - Founded in 1972, the Krewe of Cleopatra is an all female krewe with 30 floats. Their main signature throw are acrylic cups.

• Krewe of Alla - Founded in 1932, the Krewe of Alla has 300 riders and their signature throw are hand decorated genie lamps.

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Saturday - Day Parades

• Krewe of Ponchartrain - Founded in 1975, the Krewe of Pontchartrain has a few fun signature floats including Mr. Mudbug (the world’s largest crawfish) and and a giant fish dubbed “The Super Grouper”

• Legion of Mars - The Legion of Mars honors all that serve. It was founded by the Cincinnatis Club, the krewe was founded by combat veterans in 2013. The procession includes first responders, law enforcement, and veterans.

• Krewe of Choctaw - Founded in 1935, the krewe has 275 riders with 16 floats. It’s one of a few krewe’s that allow children to ride. Their main signature throw is the decorated tomahawks.

• Krewe of Feret - The Krewe of Feret paraded for more than 40 years until the late 90’s. In 2011 the krewe was reformed with a few Loyola graduates to unify young professionals. Today, the co-ed krewe is known for locally produced throws including hand decorated items. They have 500 riders with 18 floats and two superfloats.

• Krewe of Sparta - Founded in 1951, the Knights of Sparta take their name from the city-state in southern Greece. The krewe has 300 rides and 17 floats.

Sunday - Day Parades

• Krewe of Pygmalion - Founded in 2000, Pygmalion was a Cypress king who sculpted a statue of the sea nymph Galatea. So real and beautiful was the status of Pygmalion, he fell helplessly in love. Pygmalion has 550 co-ed riders with 25 floats. Their main signature throw is a glittered pig!

• Krewe of Femme Fatale - Founded in 2013, Femme Fatale is known for woman empowerment. They have 1,500 riders with 38 floats. Their signature throw is a bejeweled mirror compact symbolizing a constant inward and outward reflection.

• Krewe of Carrollton - Founded in 1924, Carrollton is the fourth oldest paraging organization. They have 575 riders with 27 floats. Their signature throw is a decorated shrimp boot.

• Krewe of King Arthur - Founded in 1977, King Arthur a co-ed krewe and is the largest krewe on this local’s weekend with 3,000 riders. They have 70 floats and their signature throw are hand decorated grails.

Breakfast

• Bearcat CBD - They have a diverse fantastic menu and also vegan, gluten free, and offer low fat options.

• Ruby Slipper - They have three downtown locations. They are know for their cane butter so the biscuit is a must! You can get on the waitlist in advance.

• Willa Jean - The cornbread is a must! They are known for their biscuit sandwiches. You can get on the waitlist in advance.

Lunch

Grab and go will be the best bet on parade days.

If your staying at one of the hotels within the Warehouse District there is a local grocery store you can pick up to go foods, snacks, don't forget a King Cake! Stop by Rouses the one located at 701 Baronne St is most convenient.

• Jimmy John's - For sandwiches to pack in the cooler.

• Cochon Butcher - This could be a lunch or a dinner options. They are known for their charcuterie + sausage boards. They also offer small plates and sandwiches. Highly recommend a Nola favorite the Muffaletta or the Cubano is five stars!

Dinner

Reservations may be a good choice during this busy season at some of these options

• Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - They offer many options like salads, burgers, pasta's, and American fare.

• Peche - Peche offers great seafood options but if you are looking for steak their hanger steak is amazing! It would be best to make reservations at this location.

• Cochon Restaurant - If your looking for some local Louisiana food. It would be best to make reservations at this location.

• Gyu-Kaku - Will satisfy after a busy day parading! Traditional Korean BBQ is their specialty. It would be best to make reservations at this location.