Gay mardi gras

The 2025 dates are yet to be confirmed.

The highlight is the Sunday parade, starting at 2 PM from the Golden Lantern on Royal Street. King Cake is a delightful and colorful pastry that’s as much a part of Mardi Gras as glitter is to a drag queen’s makeup bag. Though no longer active, Yuga gave birth to other gay Carnival krewes, including the Krewe of Petronius and the Krewe of Amon-Ra, both of which are still active.

While on the surface Mardi Gras appears to be no more than a party, many say Gay Mardi Gras helped usher in the Gay Rights Movement in the United States.

Expect a kaleidoscope of people, music, and, uhm, things that you wouldn’t want your granny to see. Catch Beads in the French Quarter

Okay, this isn’t just about cocking your wrist and hoping for the best throw from a float (though that’s part of it).

Each year, the crowds gather at the intersection of St. Ann and Dauphine Streets for one of the most extravagant and extraordinary costume contents ever to be seen. Document the Experience: An Absoulte Must-do for Mardi Gras

You’re about to live a rainbow, and the world needs to see it. You catch beads with skill and determination, and probably a little bit of elbow-flicking, Mardi Gras magic.

Check the krewes’ websites for details on how to participate.

Armeinius

Typically held on the Saturday before Mardi Gras Day, Armeinius’ mission is to preserve the customs of gay Carnival and to help educate those who seek to learn more.

Petronius

One of the oldest gay Carnival krewes in the city, Petronius was founded in 1961 and has served as a jumping-off point for other krewes.

Lords of Leather

Lords of Leather is the only leather-oriented Carnival krewe in the country, hosting a masked ball each year with medieval traditions.

Satyricon

The Mystic Krewe of Satyricon hosts a bal masque each year toward the beginning of Carnival season. 

Amon-Ra

Named after the Egyptian Sun God, the Krewe of Amon-Ra was formed in 1965.

This is an event that is truly unforgettable, with cash prizes being handed out to the winners, whose costumes cost hundreds and thousands and exhausting hours to create. As a spoof of traditional Mardi Gras krewes, the Yuga ball featured a glittering presentation of royalty, including a Queen, King, Captain, debutantes and maids.

This legendary spot isn’t just great for a cheeky cocktail — it’s where the spirits meet (read: haunted). Today it remains an important symbol of pride for the community and its allies.

Mardi Gras Balls

Mardi Gras balls are an extremely important part of LGBTQ Mardi Gras celebrations.

The Golden Lantern Bar

TBD

The Golden Lantern is one of the oldest gay bars in New Orleans, having opened in 1964.

The Bourbon Street Awards

Mardi Gras Day-12pm

Corner of St. Ann and Dauphine Streets

Last but certainly not least, one of the most spectacular LGBTQ+ Mardi Gras events held every year is the Bourbon Street Awards.

This is an art form. This afterparty is a great way to get a taste for the gay Mardi Gras krewes and their extravagance. The local bar hosts events throughout the year featuring drag shows, live music, and great drinks.