Its gone doggone crazy in New Orleans!!!
It’s that time of year again…Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Now we know that that wonderful city has had its challenges in recent years, with Hurricane Katrina, pokice corruption charges, and rampant crime sprees. But even with all of that, New Orleans never forgets about Mardi Gras and how to throw a great party for man and beast alike.
One of the most popular parades at the Mardi Gras is known as the krewe of Barkus Parade. This parade is for dogs and their owners and all dress for the occasion with some unique and interesting costumes. Check out the picture below:
The dog above is Queen Lucy, a mixed breed dog who participated in the Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade, yesterday on a sunny, but chilly day in New Orleans. There is no set costume for those who pararde through the French Quarter. Some are donned with beads, hats, crowns, and tierras. Others assume the likeness of other creatures. For example, Amber Scott and her dog, Roxy wore matching bumble bee outfits. Many of the dogs were on leashes, but a good portions of the canine participants were the stars of their own floats.
This parade began in in 1993, one year after a bar patron who always brought his dog with him to the Good Friends Bar, came up with the idea. Then in January of 1993, the official Barkus krewe was created and the rest is history. The crowds that both participate and watch the parade have steadily grown each year. The parade starts out at Armstrong Park and continues through and around the French Quarter until it parade ends up back at Armstrong Park. I’m sure if you are interested in the 2009 Krewe Barkus Parade, more detailed directions are available.
If you would like you and your dog to participate in this very cool event, there is a small entry fee, but the fees collected go to help animal friendly organizations, such as animal rescue and shelter facilities. Bring lots of sunscreen (even though its winter, you can still burn down in New Orleans). Wear comfortable clothing, get their early and set your most comfortable chair up to see a parade like no other.
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