Quoc and Amanda Nguyen to Make Mardi Gras History

New Orleans Mardi Gras has always been a celebration of tradition, but part of what keeps Carnival alive is the way those traditions continue to grow and reflect the city itself.

When the Krewe of Oshun rolls in 2027, Quoc and Amanda Nguyen will make history as the first Asian American king and queen to reign together over a New Orleans Mardi Gras krewe and parade. The husband-and-wife team will serve as Oshun’s 31st king and queen, adding a new chapter to both the krewe’s history and the story of Carnival in New Orleans.

For the Nguyens, the honor has a special connection to home. Quoc was born and raised in New Orleans East, an area that has long been home to one of the country’s most vibrant Vietnamese American communities. His family’s New Orleans roots make the historic Carnival moment even more meaningful. Among those looking forward to seeing him reign is his 102-year-old grandfather, a World War II veteran.

Both Quoc and Amanda have described the invitation to become Oshun royalty as unexpected. But beyond the surprise of receiving a crown, they see their roles as representing something larger: an opportunity for members of their community — particularly younger generations — to see themselves as part of the traditions that make New Orleans unique.

That sense of belonging feels especially fitting for Mardi Gras. The celebration may be centuries old, but its story has never stopped evolving as generations of New Orleanians have brought their own cultures, neighborhoods and traditions into Carnival.

Continuing the Krewe of Oshun's Legacy

Founded in 1996 by Ann Clark, the Krewe of Oshun was created with the goal of making participation in Mardi Gras accessible to people of ordinary means. The krewe secured the first Friday night parade slot during Carnival season and later moved from its original Mid-City route to the St. Charles Avenue route.

Oshun takes its name from the figure in Yoruba tradition associated with beauty, prosperity and love. The krewe also honors King Shango, associated with strength, courage and justice. Those traditions continue to shape the krewe's colorful pageantry today.

The Nguyens' selection as royalty comes as the organization enters another era under Captain Gian Durand, who became captain in 2025.

The Krewe of Oshun is scheduled to parade Friday, January 29, 2027, beginning at 5 p.m. Oshun's 2027 parade theme is expected to be "Jewels of the River."

 

Photo Credit: Amanda Nguyen