October Means Spooky Fun!!!
Darlings, if you haven’t yet experienced Halloween in New Orleans, then honey, you are seriously missing out! And this year, the Krewe of Boo Parade on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at sunset is coming to spook your boots and thrill your wicked soul. I’m Karen Brem, Marketing Director for the freshly renovated Historic Mardi Gras Inn, and I’m here to spill all the spooky tea on why this event is an absolute must for your Halloween extravaganza. Buckle up, ghouls and goblins, because we’re diving deep into the fabulous, the eerie, and the downright naughty side of New Orleans’ Halloween.
Now, let’s talk about the Krewe of Boo, darling. This is New Orleans’ official Halloween parade, and oh my stars, it turns the French Quarter into something even more spectacular—what we lovingly call the “Boo Carré.” The streets will be alive with spooky vibes as floats, costumed revelers, and massive papier-mâché creatures wind through the heart of the city, throwing candy and Halloween-themed goodies like beads (but better). It’s a sensory overload of ghoulish delight!
But for those of us who want to enjoy the spectacle with a little extra flair (you know who you are), might I suggest securing a VIP viewing spot? The Sheraton Hotel, Crescent City Brewhouse, and Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant are all serving up premium vantage points with some killer perks. Picture this: live entertainment to keep you in the mood, an open bar overflowing with libations, and private bathrooms—because darling, there’s nothing scarier than missing half the parade because you’re stuck in line! And costumes? Oh, honey, bring it. Get creative, get fabulous, but remember, keep it family-friendly for the parade—leave your naughtier looks for the after-parties.
Now, let’s dish about the parade essentials: costumes are the key to unlocking your most extra self. This is your time to shine, queens! Whether you’re rocking a spooky look that’s straight out of the underworld or channeling your inner diva (with just a dash of dead glam), let your imagination soar. But as much as we love a scandalous ensemble, for the parade itself, we need to keep things PG—those little ghouls and goblins in the crowd don’t need to see all your tricks!
And don’t think Halloween is just a one-day affair in New Orleans. Oh no, ma cher, Halloween in this city is a season, and the party lasts all October long. We’ve got haunted tours that will send shivers down your spine, costume contests that turn up the heat, and themed bars where you can sip on potions (or, you know, cocktails) all night long. If you really want to dive into the spooky vibes, don’t miss one of the ghost tours that take on a whole new level of sinisterness in October—because let’s be real, those spirits are more than ready to share their stories with you!
And let’s not forget some of the other killer Halloween events that’ll make your stay in the “City of the Dead” unforgettable. The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience? Honey, that’s where you’ll get your festival fix with live music, art installations, and enough dark magic to fuel your spooky fantasies. And if you’re more into something interactive, check out the haunted houses that pop up around town—each one scarier than the last, and all guaranteed to have you clutching your pearls (or your date’s hand).
Of course, when all is said and done, you’ll need a place to lay your head (or hide from the ghosts). That’s where we come in, sweethearts. The Historic Mardi Gras Inn is fresh from a full renovation, so every room is polished to perfection, just like your costume will be. We’re LGBTQ+ proudly owned and operated, and whether you’re staying for a night or the whole spooky season, our clean, affordable rooms and warm, welcoming staff are ready to make your stay absolutely fabulous. Plus, we’re just a quick 2-minute walk to the streetcar stop, which means all the haunted fun of The City of the Dead is but a short ride away! The fabulous French Quarter is a short one block and cross one street walk for our front door.
So what are you waiting for? Krewe of Boo is coming in hot (or should I say cold?) this October 19th, and you don’t want to miss your chance to be part of the biggest, baddest, and boo-tiful Halloween celebration in the world. Grab your costume, book your VIP spot, and get ready for a night you’ll never forget—just make sure to keep an eye out for those New Orleans spirits. They like to make friends… forever.
For additional information on accommodations call us directly at 504.949.5815 OR 1.800.209.9408. You may also visit us online at historicmardigrasinn.com.
Happy haunting, my lovelies! 🖤👻