23-04-2025
New krewe will roll for Kings Day 2026
A new Carnival krewe will roll through the French Quarter and CBD in 2026.
Why it matters: The new parade expands celebrations for New Orleans' traditional Mardi Gras kick-off on Kings Day.
Zoom in: Kings Day, which is also known as the Epiphany or 12th Night, marks the conclusion of the Christmas season and, at its end at midnight, the beginning of Carnival.
The Société de Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc), the Société Des Champs Elysée, the Phunny Phorty Phellows, and the Funky Uptown Krewe traditionally parade on that night, too.
The Mystic Kings Krewe announced its rather epic plans Tuesday night. They include:
A lengthy parade route that stretches from the French Market down Decatur Street, up Canal Street to loop around Rampart Street, and comes back down Poydras to disband near the riverfront.
The parade will include live camels as a nod to the Three Kings, Mardi Gras Indians, banner-carrying jesters, fireworks at midnight and a host of new parade floats, a press release says.
Members will also have social events throughout the year, the release says, and the krewe plans to establish a nonprofit arm.
Zoom in: The Mystic Kings is also focusing on sustainability for both its floats and its throws.
"All floats and throws will be of a different caliber and quality than have been commonly used in Mardi Gras celebrations," the press release says.
Between the lines: In a common Mardi Gras tradition, Mystic Kings membership will be anonymous, but inclusive, it says.
"Membership is open to people from all backgrounds and genders," the krewe says.
The new krewe did reveal that its founder is a designer who has previously created floats for krewes in New Orleans, Alabama and for Disney.
It's priced annually at $500 for non-riders and $2,000 for the first 300 riders. Those interested can get details online.
