Think you need fins to be a mermaid? Think again.
On Saturday, September 5, the 4th Annual New Orleans Mermaid Parade splashes back onto the
Mississippi Riverfront
for one of the city's most delightfully offbeat celebrations. If you've ever wanted an excuse to
wear seashells,
sequins, pirate gear or your best under-the-sea costume, this is it.
Hosted by Krewe du Fool, the walking parade begins at 6:30 p.m., traveling along the Riverfront
Promenade from
Esplanade Plaza to the Audubon Aquarium. It's less of a parade you watch and more of a moving
party you become part
of.
Giant Puppets, Mermaids and Maritime Mischief
This year's parade will once again feature the incredible creations of the New Orleans Giant
Puppet Festival, whose
larger-than-life sea creatures and imaginative puppets add an extra layer of magic to the
evening. Whether you're
five or ninety-five, it's hard not to smile when towering puppets and colorful characters come
strolling down the
riverfront.
The festivities actually begin long before the parade steps off.
A pre-party starts at 3 p.m., followed by the "Mermaid of the Magdalenes" giant puppet
performance presented by
Mudlark Public Theatre at 4 p.m. Parade participants can sign in beginning around 5:45 p.m.
before joining the
procession.
Parade...or Participate
One of the best things about the Mermaid Parade is that you don't have to stand behind a
barricade.
Anyone can register to march as a mermaid, pirate, sailor, sea creature or just about anything
else that belongs
in, or near, the water. Krewe du Fool has built its reputation on welcoming everyone willing to
embrace a little
creativity and a lot of fun.
Not interested in walking? Grab a spot along the Riverfront Promenade and enjoy one of New
Orleans' most whimsical
spectacles as it makes its way toward the Aquarium.
A Parade with a Purpose
Like many of New Orleans' favorite parades, this one gives back to the community.
Proceeds from the Mermaid Parade benefit the Audubon Institute's Education Department, helping
inspire future
generations to appreciate Louisiana's unique coastal environment and wildlife.
Event Details
New Orleans Mermaid Parade
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026
Time: Parade begins at 6:30 p.m.
Route: Riverfront Promenade, from Esplanade Plaza to the Audubon Aquarium
Pre-Party: Begins at 3 p.m.
Admission: Free to watch. Registration is available for those wishing to
participate.
Whether you're wearing a tail, carrying a trident or simply looking for another uniquely New
Orleans experience,
the Mermaid Parade proves once again that in this city, Carnival spirit doesn't end on Fat
Tuesday--it just
occasionally goes underwater.
Photo credit: Krewe du Fool
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