Make way for the glitter! The Krewe of Muses is one of the most highly anticipated parades of the Mardi Gras season, known for its satire, female empowerment, and the most coveted prize in New Orleans: the hand-decorated Muses shoe.
The 2026 parade rolls through the Uptown streets on "Muses Thursday," February 12, 2026.
đź“… Event Details
- Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Theme: Annually satirical and top-secret until parade night!
- Special Guests: The Honorary Muse (leading the parade in the iconic giant fiber-optic high heel) and the 2026 Cup Winner, Tallulah Michalopoulos.
đź“Ť Parade Route
Muses follows the traditional Uptown New Orleans route, starting in the riverside area and heading toward the Central Business District.
- Start: Jefferson Ave. & Magazine St.
- Turn: Magazine St. to Napoleon Ave.
- Main Stretch: Napoleon Ave. to St. Charles Ave.
- The Turn: Follows St. Charles Ave. all the way to Harmony Circle (formerly Lee Circle).
- End: Continues down St. Charles to Canal St., ending at Tchoupitoulas St.
✨ What to Expect
- The "Muses Shoe": The ultimate Mardi Gras "catch." These are individual works of art—heels, boots, and wedges—hand-decorated with glitter and jewels by the riders.
- Satirical Floats: Expect biting humor and social commentary. Muses is famous for poking fun at local politics, pop culture, and New Orleans quirks.
- Sustainability: Look out for "ReMUSEable Throws." Muses leads the way in eco-friendly Mardi Gras, tossing items like bamboo toothbrushes, reusable bags, and artisanal soaps.
- The Pussyfooters: Watch for this beloved all-female marching krewes in their signature orange and pink corsets.
đź’ˇ Tips for Attendees
- The "Shoe" Strategy: If you want a shoe, make a sign! Riders look for enthusiastic fans (and often children) to hand these treasures to. Don't beg—be creative.
- Arrive Early: "Muses Thursday" is a work day, but crowds start gathering on St. Charles Ave. by noon. If you want a spot near the barricade, get there by 4:00 PM.
- Sustainable Snacking: Since Muses values eco-friendliness, consider bringing your own reusable containers for parade snacks and drinks to help keep the route clean.
- Check the Weather: February nights in New Orleans can drop into the 40s or 50s. Bring a jacket; the wind off the river can be biting.
đź“ś History of Muses
Founded in 2000, the Krewe of Muses broke tradition as the first all-female krewe to parade at night on the Uptown route. Named after the nine daughters of Zeus who inspired the arts and sciences, the organization was created to give women a stronger, more creative voice in Carnival.
Today, it is a powerhouse of over 1,000 members, celebrated not just for its parade, but for its extensive community involvement and the Muses Foundation, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Uptown New Orleans, La, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
