One of the more unique Mardi Gras traditions is the Greasing of the Poles that takes place on the Friday of Mardi Gras weekend at the Royal Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon Street.
The pole greasing started out for practical reasons to keep people from climbing up the poles at the hotel to the balconies for better views and has transformed into a friendly competition where celebrities grease the poles in the most fun manner in front of a local judging panel.
This year the tradition will celebrate 50 years in 2020. The public is always invited to gather outside the hotel entrance and this is a wonderfully fun event for the whole family with live music and some local celebrity sightings.
Get there early for a great spot to view this one-of-a-kind carnival activity!