News Summary
The 40th French Quarter Easter Parade will take place in New Orleans on April 20, 2025, featuring a new route and the theme ‘The Great Gatsby.’ The event honors the late Chris Owens and includes vibrant floats, local celebrities, and a Gay Easter Parade. The celebrations also coincide with the Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival, promising a weekend of cultural festivities.
New Orleans will host the 40th French Quarter Easter Parade on Sunday, April 20, 2025, beginning at 1 p.m. from the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel at the corner of St. Louis and Royal Street. The parade, which celebrates Easter in the heart of the French Quarter, will feature a new route due to a recent terror attack that prohibits it from rolling down the iconic Bourbon Street for the first time in its history.
Starting with an initial gathering at the hotel at 11 a.m. and running until the parade begins, attendees can join in the celebrations. This year’s parade theme is “The Great Gatsby,” promising a vibrant display of jazz-age elegance and flair. Attendees will receive a signature bead in memory of the late Chris Owens, a beloved Bourbon Street entertainer and longtime leader of the parade.
The French Quarter Easter Parade is known for its colorful floats, vibrant marching bands, and a variety of Easter trinkets. Local personalities, including Meg Farris, Mike McDaniel, and Malik Mingo, are set to participate as special guests, adding to the festive atmosphere. For those who wish to track the parade in real-time, the WWL-TV Mardi Gras Parade Tracker will be available, allowing spectators to follow the event closely.
In addition to the main parade, the day will include the Gay Easter Parade, which will start at 4 p.m. from Armstrong Park, located at the corner of N. Rampart and St. Ann Streets. Celebrating its 24th year, the Gay Easter Parade will showcase the creativity and fashion of the local LGBT community. This year’s grand marshals are Malaysia Walker and William Antil, who will lead participants dressed in an array of gowns, summer suits, and festive Easter hats. The parade will also feature Easter-themed treats and giveaways for attendees.
Following the main event, a distaff promenade around Jackson Square will take place to further engage the community and celebrate Easter. Event-goers are invited back to Tableau for lunch after the parade, where they can enjoy dishes such as Gulf fish St. Peter and chicken Pontalba, followed by classic desserts like crème brûlée. Additionally, a hat contest will be part of the Easter celebration festivities, encouraging creativity and participation from the attendees.
The celebrations are set to kick off with a cocktail party on the evening before the parade, featuring an elegant ambiance reflective of the 1940s music era. This year’s events are also coinciding with the Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival (TWFest), which will bring various cultural events to the city. The TWFest VIP party has already showcased prominent literary figures alongside local artists, contributing to maintaining New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry.
Furthermore, the Jewish Endowment Foundation of Louisiana will host its annual event during this festive weekend, honoring community members and expressing gratitude to supporters. It is noteworthy that these celebrations and events have collectively raised significant funds, exceeding $4.25 million, for community campaigns aimed at supporting local initiatives.
In summary, the 40th French Quarter Easter Parade and accompanying events are set to provide New Orleans with a vibrant and joyful celebration on April 20, 2025. With new routes, exciting themes, and a myriad of activities, the day promises to be a highlight for both residents and visitors alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Doubt Set to Take the Stage in New Orleans
Krewe du Optic Files Lawsuit Against Copycat Eyewear Maker
New Orleans Celebrates Local Talent at Jazz Fest
New Orleans Gears Up for Colorful Easter Parades on April 20
New Orleans Lakefront Easter Celebration Adjusts to New Norms
New Orleans Shaken by Tragic New Year’s Day Attack
French Quarter Easter Parade Celebrates 40 Years
New Orleans Sees Economic Growth Amid Super Bowl Preparations
Jazz Fest 2025: Celebrate with Virgin Hotels in New Orleans
New Orleans Launches Bead Recycling Program
Additional Resources
- NOLA: Nell Nolan French Quarter Easter Parade
- Fox 8 Live: New Orleans Easter Sunday Parades
- WDSU: New Orleans Easter Parades
- Google Search: French Quarter Easter Parade
- WWLTV: 40th Annual French Quarter Easter Parade Route
- Wikipedia: Easter Parades
