St. John Fools of Misrule
January 7 at 6pm
Walking Parade
The Fools and Jewels of this krewe march through historic St. John District of old Covington (1813) on Saturday closest to Twelfth Night, also known as The Epiphany or King's Day. Led by a “Lord of Misrule", this marching parade founded in 2011 features flambeaux, brass band, costumed marchers. Starts and ends at Columbia Street Tap Room (434 N. Columbia) where the members-only “Feast of Fools” begins the evening. The organization's rituals are derived from an ancient English men's group that clamored along the evening streets, stopping at watering holes and restaurants along the way, creating unruliness with cowbells and whips while delivering jeers and spankings to those caught on the street unaware. The Fools of Misrule integrated into its name homage to the historic St. John District where the group was founded and annually conducts its bawdy procession. Their slogan: Vivere Vitam Omnino! – Live Life Completely!
Krewe of Olympia
February 11 at 6pm
Floats, Trucks and Horse Parade
This 300+ member krewe founded in 1965 keeps the identity of King Zeus a secret throughout the parade. Members ride on floats, trucks and horses interspersed with marching bands from across the region. Expect tons of throws, including the krewe’s signature LED lightning bolts. Starts in front of St. Tammany Parish Justice Center on Columbia St. and follows a route along Hwy 21/Boston St. to Jefferson, 15th, Tyler, W. 23rd and back through downtown again.
MARDI GRAS DAY 2023
February 21
Floats, Trucks, Horses & Walking Parade + After-Party
Carnival in Covington & Tammany Gras
Parade, 10am | Trailhead Party 12pm
Celebrate Mardi Gras Day on the Northshore with this parade and party, rolling through the streets of downtown Covington with the theme "Red Beans & Rice." Features traditional Mardi Gras floats, marching and dance groups, horses, classic cars, and costume contests with prizes. “Tammany Gras” follows at Covington Trailhead, a free after-party with live music, food trucks and concessions, and a kids' play area. Founded in 2017 to join with the Covington Lions Club for a day full of festivities on Fat Tuesday. Lawn chairs, strollers and ladders welcome! Parking is free throughout the town.
Mystic Krewe of Mardi Paws
February 26 at 2pm
Walking Parade
The premier Mardi Gras walking parade featuring man's best friends, and their families, closes the Carnival season on the Northshore. The parade rolls and strolls on the Sunday following Mardi Gras Day through downtown Covington with dogs and up to six of their humans in costume on a theme. Founded in 1994, proceeds from Mardi Paws events benefit the Ian Somerhalder Foundation (ISF) and its emergency medical grant program, and Scott’s Wish, which provides aid for patients with leukemia and life-threatening illnesses.
