Krewe of Boo: New Orleans’ Spookiest Mardi Gras Parade
New Orleans is known for its vibrant street parades, with Mardi Gras being the most renowned. However, NOLA’s love for celebrations transcends beyond just one season, with many events dotting the annual calendar. One of the most unique and spookiest of these is the Krewe of Boo, a Halloween-inspired parade unlike any other. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins, traditions, and fun of the Krewe of Boo, an event that offers a thrilling adventure for revelers of all ages.
The Origin Story
The Krewe of Boo was formed in 2007 by local businessman Brian Kern, wanting to create a Halloween-inspired celebration in the spirit of Carnival. The parade follows a route that passes through some of New Orleans’ most iconic landmarks, and since its inception, it has drawn many enthusiasts from around the world seeking to participate in the festive and spooky experience.
The Parade
Krewe of Boo is a visual extravaganza that showcases the creativity of the krewe members and the spirit of Halloween. The parade includes elaborately designed floats adorned with ghostly and spooky designs, as well as costumes, masks, and makeup that are both eerie and whimsical. The signature parade is led by “Krewe of Boo Chief” or “Master of the Macabre” Kern and features family-friendly entertainment including stilt walkers, marching bands, and local celebrities.
Trick-or-Treating for Grown-Ups
The Krewe of Boo parade route is lined with bars and restaurants that create a spooky atmosphere by staging decorations and haunted-themed bites to coincide with the event. It offers an opportunity for adults to revel in the Halloween spirit while getting to enjoy a drink or two as they watch the parade pass by.
Family-Friendly Mardi Gras Fun
Krewe of Boo has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the most family-friendly of New Orleans’ celebrations, with many activities and entertainment options for kids. The parade procession includes trinkets and prizes that are thrown throughout the route, adding to the element of anticipation and excitement for the youngest revelers. The Krewe of Boo is the perfect opportunity for families with young children to experience a New Orleans Mardi Gras event that celebrates the spirit of Halloween during the fall holiday season.
Embracing New Orleans’ Spirit
The Krewe of Boo is a reflection of New Orleans’ love for the macabre, masking, and revelry. The event captures the city’s playful and imaginative soul, and its reception has helped it become one of the most sought-after Halloween parades in America. The Krewe of Boo invites participants to embrace the Halloween spirit while getting a taste of the Mardi Gras experience in a way that is unique to New Orleans.
In conclusion, the Krewe of Boo is an excellent and haunting celebration that invites participants to explore the spookier side of New Orleans culture while experiencing fall in the city. A parade that combines Halloween and Mardi Gras themes, Krewe of Boo has become a must-go event and an instant sensation since its inception. It’s a time for families, friends, and visitors to bond over the love of costumes, candy, and all things spooky. So the next time you’re in New Orleans during the fall season and in search of a little fright, don’t miss out on the whimsical and eerie Krewe of Boo celebration.