Mardi Gras Krewe History

What is a Mardi Gras Krewe?

A krewe is any group or organization of friends who would like to band together to host a Mardi Gras ball, ride on a Mardi Gras parade float, and participate in social events throughout the year. In Southwest Louisiana, there are more than 60 krewes, a number that continues to grow each season. Each krewe is a part of a larger organization called Krewe of Krewes that formed in 1979 when the area's krewes joined together to create a parade for the community's enjoyment. Now the culmination of Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras festivities, The Main Event formerly known as the Krewe of Krewes Parade was first held in 1980.

How to Join a Krewe:

Joining a krewe usually means that you have been invited to join, or you are friends with someone in the krewe, and you ask if you are able to join the Krewe. Depending on the krewe, there could be a waiting list to join, but if you are able to become a member through an existing krewe member's recommendation, there are typically dues that must be paid. Also, you would receive a copy of the bylaws and any agreements that the krewe has for members to remain in good standing.

How Krewes Contribute to the Community:

Each krewe has its own activities and community contributions or service projects so that the krewe's membership stays active year-round. 

Krewes with Public Events:

Most krewes have private Mardi Gras Balls without a public-facing portion beside the events established by Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana, Inc., such as Twelfth Night and the Royal Gala. However, the Krewe of Cosmos in Sulphur and the Krewe of Illusions both have public events and presentations that can be observed by an audience. 

The List of Active Krewes in Southwest Louisiana: