Search
You've added your first Trip Builder item! Keep track of your trip itinerary here.
ENews
GET UPDATES AND SPECIAL OFFERS
Booking
 
Krewe of Armenius
Krewe of Armenius
x

LGBTQ MARDI GRAS

The New Orleans LGBTQ community embraces Mardi Gras traditions with costumes, krewes, and more

While the first official gay Carnival krewe, the Krewe of Yuga, was formed in the late 1950s, “Gay Mardi Gras” had been going on underground way before then. 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. Though no longer active, Yuga gave birth to other gay Carnival krewes, including the Krewe of Petronius and the Krewe of Amon-Ra, both of which are still active.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. 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. They are typically themed and feature dazzling handmade costumes and presentations of krewe royalty. Here are some of the best-known gay Carnival balls. Check the krewes’ websites for details on how to participate.

Barrett DeLong-Church
Krewe of Armenius

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.

Barrett DeLong-Church
Krewe of Armenius

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. Though the krewe started small, today the celebrations have reached a grand scale. 

Krewe of Mwindo

Organized in 1998, the Krewe of Mwindo is one of the newest and most unique krewes, devoted to promoting Carnival to community members who were excluded from traditional celebrations in the past. 

Krewe of Stars

The Krewe of Stars is the city’s newest inclusive Krewe, only originating in 2017. This Krewe is dedicated to highlighting the members of our local communities and has a passion for supporting theater.

Barrett DeLong-Church
Krewe of Armenius

Other Gay Carnival Events

Fat Monday Luncheon

A tradition since 1949, the Fat Monday Luncheon is the oldest organized activity in all of Louisiana LGBTQ history. The luncheon began when Bob Demmons crowned one of his out-oftown Mardi Gras guests Queen of the luncheon during a small gathering at Brennan’s restaurant. After the group grew too large for Brennan’s, the organizers approached Arnaud’s restaurant where they were welcomed with open arms. Each year, two queens are crowned: one from out of town and one from New Orleans. Other participants are singled out for various honors as well.

Bourbon Street Awards

The Bourbon Street Awards, which takes place in the French Quarter every year on Mardi Gras morning, is Carnival’s ultimate costume contest. Awards are given in a variety of categories, including Best Leather, Best Drag, Best Group and Best Overall Costume. Cash prizes are awarded and the event is hosted by celebrity emcees.

For more information about LGBT New Orleans, sign up for our e-newsletter below.