New Orleans has received a lot of attention this year hosting the Super Bowl. Tourists flocked to the Big Easy in droves driving up the local economy and getting a taste for (in my humble opinion) the country’s most interesting city. Many stayed there to find out what Mardi Gras is all about. The lucky ones were in for a treat.
The Mystic Krewe of Barkus paraded around the Vieux Carre (that’s French Quarter for the non-locals) on January 27th. This year’s theme was Tails and Tiaras ‘Here Comes Honey Bow Wow’.
Traditionally, the parade is marched by furry beasts of the canine variety dressed to the paws in costumes. Their humans don matching outfits. Of course in this time of political correctness no four legged friend is discriminated against, and Barkus is often joined by kitties and ferrets.
This year’s king, King Barkus XXI, was Jaques Miller Wallis, a five year old Vizslas and the queen bitch was Queen Barkus XXI, Queen Hattie, a beautifully mannered Great Dane.
The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is opened to all Canines and other Beasties regardless of breed, sex, or sexual orientation, including neutered. The humans are invited to attend the Black-Tie Optional Costumes Encouraged annual ball. This year the ball was held at the Windsor Court Hotel.
If you ever find yourself in New Orleans two weeks before Mardi Gras, do yourself a favor and check out Barkus. You won’t be sorry.
For more information on Barkus, check out their website here: https://www.barkus.org
If you would like to contact Loren Kinsella you can email her at: lorenkinsella@rocketmail.com
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