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New Orleans Announces Musical Tribute for Irma Thomas

Mardi Gras float designed to honor Irma Thomas with musical elements.

News Summary

The Krewe of Freret will honor the legendary Irma Thomas at their 2025 Mardi Gras parade, scheduled for February 22, promising a vibrant celebration of local music. The parade, themed ‘Time is on Our Side’, will feature a spectacular float designed by Kern Studios, showcasing Thomas’s remarkable musical journey. Attendees can expect a unique glass bead throw, handcrafted by local artisans, adding to the festive atmosphere. Join in the celebration of New Orleans’s rich musical heritage as the community unites to honor the Soul Queen.

New Orleans Gears Up for a Musical Tribute at the Krewe of Freret Parade

Get ready to join in the fun as New Orleans prepares for a spectacular event that’s blending the rhythms of history with the bright lights of the future! The Krewe of Freret has officially announced that their 2025 Mardi Gras parade will feature a brand new float dedicated to none other than the legendary Irma Thomas, also fondly referred to as the Soul Queen of New Orleans. This celebration is set to take place on February 22, 2025, and it promises to be a memorable moment for locals and tourists alike.

Time to Celebrate Local Legends

The theme of this year’s parade is “Time is on Our Side,” a nod to one of Thomas’s iconic hits that has resonated with fans for decades. The Krewe of Freret is known for their tradition of honoring great local musical legends while they’re still shining bright, as they’ve previously celebrated artists like Trombone Shorty, Juvenile, Big Freedia, and Dr. John. This year marks the 11th annual parade, and it’s set to be an extraordinary tribute to a woman whose voice has touched the hearts of many.

Float Design to Capture the Essence of Soul

The float, crafted by the talented team at Kern Studios, is set to make waves with a stunning design that reflects Irma Thomas’s musical journey. Picture this: a regal crown to symbolize her royalty in the music scene, oversized vinyl records reminiscent of her classic songs, and a giant microphone that captures the energy of live performances. To top it all off, there will be lifelike props of Thomas singing, which are sure to enchant everyone along the parade route. This float is not just a tribute; it’s a celebration of a musical legacy.

A Special Gift for Parade-Goers

custom glass bead featuring a wooden medallion emblazoned with Thomas’s likeness, all handcrafted by local artisans at Copperhead Studios. These unique, eco-friendly throws are designed to enrich your Mardi Gras experience and give you a piece of the celebration to take home! So keep your eyes open, because you won’t want to miss out on this collectible.

A Celebration of Musical Heritage

The Krewe Captain, Bobby Hjortsberg, emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating local music royalty. With an enduring legacy and a remarkable influence on the New Orleans sound, Irma Thomas embodies the city’s vibrant musical culture. Her float will serve not only as a reminder of her contributions but also as an invitation for everyone to join in a grand celebration of New Orleans’s rich musical heritage. This is an opportunity to come together, sway to the beat, and honor the roots that define the city’s unique rhythm.

When and Where to Join the Fun

The parade will kick off at 3:30 p.m. along Napoleon Avenue. So mark your calendars and gather your friends and family—this is a celebration you won’t want to miss! Expect to see a vibrant display of music, culture, and local camaraderie as everyone unites to honor the Soul Queen herself. The 2025 Krewe of Freret parade is set to take the stage, blending tradition and modernity, and it’s sure to be a day full of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

In Conclusion

As the Krewe of Freret embraces the theme “Time is on Our Side,” it invites everyone to come together and celebrate the magic of New Orleans music and the life of Irma Thomas. With an awe-inspiring float, distinctive throws, and the collective spirit of the community, this is going to be a Mardi Gras parade for the ages. So grab your beads and your dancing shoes—New Orleans is ready to party!

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New Orleans Announces Musical Tribute for Irma Thomas

STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

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