Bacchus Sunday is one of the most celebrated days of the Mardi Gras season in New Orleans. Families and friends line the streets and stake claim to their space to party all along the streets and neutral ground of the Uptown Parade route.
The 2023 Theme of the Krewe of Bacchus Parade was “Throw Me Something Mister.” Many of the parade floats featured TV characters and toys from the past like Mr. Potato Head, Mr. Ed, Mr. Clean, Mr. Bubbles, Batman and Robin and many many more.
Early in 1968, the Krewe of Bacchus broke with Carnival tradition by staging a Sunday night parade with bigger and more spectacular floats than anything previously seen in Carnival.
They then decided to have a national celebrity king lead the parade, breaking ranks with 113 years of Carnival tradition. Founded by Owen “Pip” Brennan Jr, Bacchus set out to be the most innovative and imitate Krewe of the Century. Other super krewes have now followed suit and now have celebrity guests during their parades as well.
This year actor and comedian Adam Devine was the King of the Bacchus parade. As Devine toasted the mayor at Gallier Hall he said that New Orleans was his favorite city and he hoped to come back for 100 more years.
Now, with more than 1,600 members and 32 animated super-floats, the Krewe of Bacchus is revered as one of the most spectacular krewes in Carnival history. Some of the parade’s super floats include the Bacchagator, Bacchasaurus, Bacchaneer, Kong Family, and Baccha-Whoppa.
The Krewe of Bacchus holds its parade on the Sunday before Mardi Gras Day, drawing crowds of several hundred thousands every year.
A team of the world famous Clydesdale Horses joined the parade as well.
After travelling through the streets of New Orleans with its massive floats, marching bands, and ceremonial escort groups it ends up inside the Convention Center for their black-tie Rendezvous party of over 9,000 guests from all over the country.
Unfortunately tragedy struck as the floats made their way down St. Charles Avenue this year when a shooting broke out and one person was killed and four others injured. This is a senseless occurrence that put a stain on a joyous season where revelers should feel safe to see their favorite parades.