Last Saturday morning on Galentine’s Day , under bright skies and the unmistakable buzz of Carnival anticipation, the Krewe of Iris rolled along the Uptown route, delivering one of Mardi Gras’ most beloved and meaningful parades. As New Orleans’ oldest and largest all-female parading organization, Iris once again proved why its blend of tradition, generosity, and joyful spectacle holds such a special place in the city’s Carnival season.
Founded in 1917, the Krewe of Iris has more than a century of history behind it—and that legacy was on full display as the parade rolled at 11:00 a.m. on the Saturday before Mardi Gras. With more than 3,700 members and 35-plus tandem floats, Iris isn’t just large in size; it’s expansive in spirit. This is a parade that feels celebratory and communal, designed to be enjoyed by families, longtime locals, and visitors who want to experience Mardi Gras at its most welcoming.
For 2026, the krewe’s theme, “What an Iris Wants,” set the tone for a parade that leaned into whimsy, aspiration, and a touch of playful indulgence. Each float interpreted the theme in its own way, resulting in a colorful procession that felt lighthearted but intentional—classic Iris storytelling wrapped in beads, glitter, and bold design. The theme invited parade-goers to imagine desires both grand and simple, echoing the idea that Carnival is as much about dreaming as it is about celebration.
Leading the parade this year was Queen Kimberly Richelle Williams, whose grace and presence anchored the royal court. As her float rolled by, cheers erupted from the crowd, many of whom had been waiting patiently since early morning for that first glimpse of Iris royalty. The queen’s role felt especially fitting for a krewe built on women’s leadership, creativity, and community involvement—values that have defined Iris since its founding.
One of the most recognizable signatures of the Krewe of Iris is its hand-decorated sunglasses, and last Saturday they were as coveted as ever. Spectators lined the streets from Napoleon all the way down St. Charles Avenue with arms stretched high, hoping to catch a pair—each one uniquely designed and unmistakably Iris. These sunglasses have become a symbol of the parade itself: playful, personal, and thoughtfully made. Unlike mass-produced throws, they reflect the time and care that members put into creating something memorable for the crowd.
This year, Iris expanded its reputation for generosity through a high-profile partnership with Hubig’s Pies. In a move that felt both nostalgic and delightfully unexpected, the krewe distributed 36,000 specially branded Hubig’s pies along the route. The iconic New Orleans treat—long associated with corner stores, school lunches, and late-night cravings—was met with excitement as floats rolled by tossing pies into the crowd. It was a uniquely local collaboration that underscored Iris’ deep connection to the city and its people.
The Uptown route, beginning at Napoleon Avenue and South Saratoga Street, was packed with spectators who came prepared for a long, joyful morning. Families staked out sidewalk spots early, ladders filled with kids decorated in purple, green, and gold, and longtime parade-goers shared stories while waiting for the first float to appear. There was a sense of ease to the crowd—less frantic than some of the bigger parades later in the season, and more focused on soaking in the moment. Dance krewes like the Amelia Earhawts and Krewe des Fleurs marched along between the floats to entertain the massive crowds along the route.
What truly sets the Krewe of Iris apart is its community-focused approach to Carnival. From its leadership structure to its thoughtful throws, Iris feels intentionally inclusive. It’s a parade designed not just to impress, but to connect—to hand something meaningful from float to sidewalk, whether that’s a pair of sunglasses, a pie, or simply a smile and a wave. As the final floats passed, Iris had delivered exactly what it promises year after year: tradition without feeling dated, spectacle without excess, and generosity without expectation.
With “What an Iris Wants,” the krewe reminded New Orleans that Mardi Gras magic doesn’t always come from the loudest parades or the flashiest themes. Sometimes, it comes from consistency, care, and a century-old commitment to celebrating women, community, and joy—one float, one throw, and one shared moment at a time.