KREWE DU VIEUX PARADE

During the earliest years of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebrations, satire was often the theme of the major krewes’ parades. Over time, less controversial themes evolved, such as mythology, historical events, geographical locations, etc., and satirical themes fell by the wayside. In the late 20th century satire began re-emerging as a theme for some of the smaller walking krewes, the latest of which is the Krewe du Vieux. Founded in 1987 and taking its name from the Vieux Carré (old square), the official name for the French Quarter, the Krewe du Vieux is one of the earliest parades of the New Orleans Carnival calendar. In the old tradition, it is noted for wild satirical and adult themes, as well as for showcasing some of the best brass and traditional jazz bands in New Orleans. The parade goes through the Marigny and French Quarter, ending at their official ball. The Krewe du Vieux consists of 17 “sub-krewes,” each of which presents their own interpretations of the theme. Some of the more colorfully named sub-krewes include the Krewe of C.R.U.D.E., Krewe of Underwear, Seeds of Decline, Krewe of L.E.W.D., Krewe of K.A.O.S., Mystic Krewe of Comatose (a spoof on the Krewe of Comus), Mystic Krewe of Inane, and Krewe du Mishigas (an all-Jewish contingent). Seventeen bands will be accompanying the procession. The Krewe Du Vieux Ball follows the parade, and is open to the public. See the krewe’s official website for more information.