THE PARADE ROUTE
The Krewe of Les Bon Temps Rouler’s inaugural parade rolls April 2026, starting at Elysian Fields and winding through the French Quarter past landmarks like the French Market, Café du Monde, and St. Louis Cathedral, before turning up Canal Street, looping around Bourbon, and finishing in the Warehouse District at Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar.
Packed with themed floats, live music, dance troupes, and signature throws, this spring parade brings Mardi Gras magic to the heart of New Orleans between French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest weekends.
PARADE ROUTE BREAKDOWN
When the Krewe of Les Bon Temps Rouler rolls, we’re not just parading—we’re taking you on a scenic, soul-stirring tour through some of the most iconic spots in New Orleans. From the river’s edge to the heart of downtown, here’s your sneak peek at what to expect along our inaugural parade route.
Starting Strong:
Elysian Fields & the French Market
Our floats line up at the base of Elysian Fields Avenue, where the Marigny kisses the French Quarter. This historic stretch has welcomed countless celebrations, and as the brass starts to warm up, the energy will be electric. Rolling into the French Market, you’ll catch the scent of fresh pralines, hot beignets, and spicy crawfish as locals and visitors lean over balconies to wave.
Decatur Street’s
Historic Heartbeat
Next, we glide down Decatur Street, hugging the Mississippi River. On your right: the St. Louis Cathedral, its spires rising over Jackson Square. On your left: Café du Monde, where powdered sugar practically floats through the air. This stretch is pure postcard material—beads flying under the watchful eye of NOLA’s most photographed skyline.
The Crescent Cusp on the River
As the route curves along the crescent bend of the river, keep your eyes peeled for riverboats and ferries cruising by. The floats will shimmer against this watery backdrop, making for some of the most Instagram-worthy moments of the night.
Gateway to Canal Street
Turning onto North Peters Street, the energy builds as we head toward the city’s grand boulevard—Canal Street. This is where the French Quarter meets the Central Business District, and the wide avenue makes way for the full spectacle of our procession.
Rolling up Canal Street toward the Bourbon Street intersection, you’ll see neon lights collide with grand historic architecture. The parade will swing around the neutral ground here (that’s NOLA-speak for the median) so spectators get twice the view. Then we’ll head back down Canal, giving another wave to the cheering crowds and lucky balcony watchers.
Tchoupitoulas Street into the Warehouse District
The floats will turn onto Tchoupitoulas Street, moving into the Warehouse/Central Business District. This neighborhood blends industrial history with a buzzing nightlife scene, and by now the music will be in full swing, with dance troupes, marching bands, and maybe even a few spontaneous second lines keeping pace.
Final Stop:
Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar
Our grand finale? None other than Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar & Restaurant, a beloved CBD hangout known for its laid-back vibe, surf shack flair, and festive balcony views. It’s the perfect place to toast the end of the parade—and the beginning of a brand-new spring tradition in New Orleans.
From Elysian Fields to Lucy’s, every step of this route is steeped in history, culture, and pure Crescent City magic. Whether you’re catching throws in the Quarter, snapping photos along the river, or dancing your way through Canal Street, you’re part of the story we’re writing together—one bead, one beat, and one smile at a time.
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