Krewe of House Floats

from Country Roads "People & Their Passions" Issue

Perspectives: Terrance Osborne

KREWE OF HOUSE FLOATS

An initiative that sets out to drape the Crescent City in whimsy, joy, and celebration despite all odds.

Leading up to this year’s Mardi Gras festivities, New Orleans residents knew that there had to be some way to channel the city’s inner spirit of celebration, even without parades or parties or gatherings. In true fashion, local creatives have come together to present the first ever Krewe of House Floats, an initiative that sets out to drape the Crescent City in whimsy, joy, and celebration despite all odds. Collaborating with local artists and businesses, residents in neighborhoods throughout New Orleans (and beyond!) have decked out their homes for the season in the iconic style of Carnival floats. Inspired? Visit kreweofhousefloats.com for details on how to be a part of it, including guides to local vendors offering everything from beads to costumes to décor. You can also support local float artists at hireamardigrasartist.com by donating, and you may even get a chance to have your home professionally decorated. Regardless, be sure to visit the Krewe’s site on February 1, when they release their map of the city. Safe Mardi Gras doesn’t have to mean a stale Mardi Gras. We’ve still got art. We’ve still got music. We’ve still got king cake. And we’ve still got each other.

By Jordan LaHaye Fontenot