On Friday, February 13, 2026, the balcony columns of Royal Sonesta New Orleans were slicked, shined, and gloriously greased as one of Mardi Gras’ most delightfully absurd traditions returned to Bourbon Street. The 56th annual Greasing of the Poles once again transformed a practical safety measure into a full-blown Carnival spectacle—complete with live music, celebrity judges, and a crowd that packed the street below.
What started nearly sixty years ago as a practical solution—coating the hotel’s columns in grease to keep enthusiastic Mardi Gras revelers from climbing them for a better parade view—has grown into one of Carnival’s most anticipated traditions. The Greasing of the Poles has transformed from simple crowd control into a high-energy spectacle that officially launches the final weekend of Mardi Gras. In true New Orleans style, the event blends practicality with pageantry, delivering something delightfully over-the-top, slightly absurd, and completely unforgettable.
This year’s theme, “Royally Superstitious,” was a perfect match for its Friday the 13th date. Leaning into the city’s love of mystery, folklore, and theatrical flair, the theme added an extra layer of playful drama to the morning. Above the bustling crowds on Bourbon Street, the Royal Sonesta’s iconic balconies felt like a grand stage backdrop, poised for competitors to shimmy skyward in hopes of claiming the coveted Greasing Champion crown.
Musician and Cajun Country artist Amanda Shaw ultimately claimed the crown, winning over judges and the roaring crowd with charisma, determination, and a little Louisiana grit. Shaw’s victory added her name to a storied list of local personalities who have embraced the slippery challenge over the years. Her triumph felt especially fitting as she slipped off the ladder with a wardrobe malfunction and came back to continue the greasing in an outfit change—Cajun spirit, Carnival energy, and a fearless sense of fun all wrapped into one unforgettable moment.
Facing off in the competition were burlesque star Bella Blue, performer Caleb Morse, and Ron Orleans. Each competitor brought their own personality to the pole—equal parts athleticism and showmanship—as they attempted to ascend grease-coated columns in front of a cheering sea of spectators. The spectacle unfolded somewhere between sport and satire, drawing laughter, applause, and plenty of playful commentary.
Taking on the role of master of ceremonies was beloved WGNO anchor Kenny Lopez, whose infectious charisma kept the energy high between each climb. His quick wit and lively commentary transformed the competition into a full-fledged Bourbon Street celebration, seamlessly mixing humor with unmistakable New Orleans pride.
The entertainment lineup only amplified the atmosphere. Jazz great Leroy Jones returned with the Original Hurricane Brass Band, filling Bourbon Street with brassy, high-energy tunes that set the tone for the event. The 610 Stompers, New Orleans’ beloved all-male dance troupe, delivered their signature mix of choreography and comedy, while Mardi Gras Indians led by the legendary Queen Cherice added layers of cultural richness and tradition to the celebration.
A distinguished judging panel presided over the greasy showdown. Cocktail master Chris Hannah, award-winning beverage director and partner at Jewel of the South and Manolito, joined stand-up comedian and LGBTQIA+ advocate Ryan Anthony Rogers, President & CEO of New Orleans & Company Walt Leger, and Gloria Wagner Gifford of Moët Hennessy in evaluating the climbers. Their presence underscored how far the event has grown—from quirky hotel tradition to star-studded Carnival fixture.
Perhaps what makes Greasing of the Poles so enduring is its accessibility. The event is completely free to attend, inviting both locals and visitors to gather outside the Royal Sonesta and take part in the show. There’s no ticket barrier, no velvet rope—just Bourbon Street energy at its finest. Families, tourists, and longtime Carnival devotees all mingled in the crowd, phones raised, beads draped around their necks, waiting to see who would conquer the grease.
As Amanda Shaw celebrated her victory and the music carried on, the significance of the afternoon settled in. Greasing of the Poles officially marked the start of the final, fever-pitch weekend of Mardi Gras. From this point forward, the city shifts into high gear, with parades, parties, and pageantry building toward Fat Tuesday.
In a city known for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, the Greasing of the Poles stands as a perfect example of New Orleans’ ability to transform practicality into performance. What began as a way to keep people from climbing hotel columns has become a nearly 60-year-old Carnival ritual—one that blends music, humor, community, and just enough chaos to remind everyone why Mardi Gras in New Orleans remains unmatched.
And on this Friday the 13th, under the banner of “Royally Superstitious,” Bourbon Street once again proved that even grease can sparkle when it’s part of Carnival.