New Orleans Halloween Parade Guide

The Krewe of BOO! is New Orleans’ official Halloween parade, set to roll out on October 19, 2024. Known for its spooky, family-friendly atmosphere.

The parade transforms the city’s iconic streets with lively floats, costumes, and thematic music. From the parade’s Mardi Gras-inspired vibes to thrilling side events like the Zombie Run, this guide provides all the essential information to help you enjoy the festivities.

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History and Significance of Krewe of BOO!

Founded in 2007, the Krewe of BOO! quickly gained popularity as the only large-scale Halloween-themed parade in New Orleans.

Designed and built by Kern Studios, the parade boasts 3D floats, life-sized papier-mâché monsters, and vibrant costumes. The event merges the theatricality of Mardi Gras with the eerie excitement of Halloween, showcasing New Orleans’ flair for over-the-top celebrations.

Parade Details and Route

The 2024 Krewe of BOO! parade will begin at 6:30 PM on October 19. The parade kicks off on Elysian Fields Avenue and snakes through key landmarks in the French Quarter. Below is the full route:

Start at Elysian Fields Avenue.
Head down North Peters Street.
Pass Jackson Square along Decatur Street.
Continue to Canal Street, making a U-turn near Burgundy Street.
End the parade at Tchoupitoulas Street in the Warehouse District.

Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing, as free public access is available along the entire route.

Events Leading up to the Parade

Zombie Run

When: Morning of October 19, 2024
Where: Starts at Warehouse District and ends on Frenchmen Street.
The New Orleans Zombie Run invites participants to dress as zombies and run or walk across the French Quarter.

Beware: members of the Big Easy Rollergirls act as “zombie hunters,” adding extra excitement to the 2-mile dash.

Captain’s Party

On Friday, October 18, Krewe members will gather at Mambo’s rooftop on Bourbon Street. This private event offers exclusive access to the parade’s participants and supporters.

Viewing Parties

Several VIP viewing parties are available at Crescent City Brewhouse, Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar, and The Sheraton Hotel, providing premium seating, open bars, and live entertainment for those seeking a more elevated experience.

Krewe of BOO! Highlights

Family-Friendly Environment: Costumes are strongly encouraged, with plenty of candy, toys, and other themed “throws” distributed along the route.
Eco-Friendly Throws: The Krewe focuses on sustainable, locally made throws like Zapp’s chips and collectible items, avoiding wasteful materials often seen during Mardi Gras parades.
Live Music and Performances: Dance troupes, marching bands, and other street performers accompany the floats, creating a dynamic, festive atmosphere.

Post-Parade Festivities: Monster Mash Afterparty

After the parade ends, the celebration continues at the Monster Mash party at Generations Hall.

Costumes Required: Both participants and attendees are expected to dress their best.
Entertainment: DJs, live music, and special performances are part of the event lineup.
Access: Krewe members get free admission, but the event is open to the public with tickets available online.

Tips for Attending the Parade

Dress in Costume: Embrace the spooky spirit of the night!
Bring a Bag: You’ll want something to collect the unique throws tossed from floats.
Plan Ahead: The streets will be crowded, so arrive early and secure parking in nearby areas if driving.
Stay for the Afterparty: Generations Hall hosts the perfect post-parade celebration.

Mardi Gras Influence on the Krewe of BOO! Parade

The Krewe of BOO! parade brings a unique twist to the Halloween season by incorporating elements traditionally seen during Mardi Gras.

Much like Mardi Gras krewes, the floats are vibrant and hand-crafted, often featuring intricate 3D designs of ghosts, vampires, and werewolves.

Participants toss themed “throws” such as Zapp’s chips, beads, and other local goodies, a deliberate shift from Mardi Gras’ plastic-heavy items to promote eco-consciousness

Visit New Orleans

Economic and Cultural Impact of the Krewe of BOO!

Events like the Krewe of BOO! parade play a significant role in the local economy and tourism industry. Hotels, restaurants, and local shops benefit from the influx of visitors attending the festivities in mid-October.

New Orleans, already known for its cultural richness and history, leverages Halloween celebrations to attract out-of-town tourists, who often extend their stays to explore the city’s haunted tours and ghost walks.

Additionally, the event helps promote local businesses, with many vendors participating in the parade and afterparty events such as the Monster Mash

Krewe of BOO!

Why Krewe of BOO! Stands Out Among Halloween Events

The Krewe of BOO! parade is unique not just because it features full-size floats, but also because it offers a more family-friendly atmosphere compared to other late-night New Orleans events.

While the city is known for its adult-oriented celebrations, this parade strikes a balance by welcoming children and families, with kid-friendly floats and plenty of giveaways.

This inclusiveness, combined with events like the Zombie Run and Captain’s Party, makes it a standout event, appealing to both locals and tourists seeking a festive yet accessible Halloween celebration.

Conclusion

The Krewe of BOO! Halloween Parade offers a perfect blend of spooky fun and New Orleans charm. Whether you’re participating in the Zombie Run.

Attending the parade in costume, or dancing the night away at the Monster Mash, this event guarantees an unforgettable experience. Be sure to plan ahead and embrace the Halloween spirit as you explore New Orleans in its most theatrical form.

FAQs

Is the Krewe of BOO! parade free?

Yes, the parade is free and open to the public.

Is the parade family-friendly?

Absolutely! The Krewe of BOO! prides itself on being a kid-friendly event, encouraging families to attend in costume.

What are the best places to watch the parade?

Prime spots include Jackson Square and Canal Street, but you can also purchase VIP viewing party tickets for premium seating.

Can anyone join the Zombie Run?

Yes, registration is open to the public. Just make sure to wear your zombie gear!

New Orleans Halloween Parade | Krewe of BOO! 2024