Some friends in New Orleans asked us to do a post for the fast upcoming Southern Decadence. I’ll admit that it’s not my scene, but this blog’s only boundaries are geographical. Who am I to say no?
Mardi Gras with a decided twist, Southern Decadence in New Orleans, Louisiana is a massive GLBT festival and event packed with parades, street fairs, dance parties, drag queens, comedy, costumes, beads, more than a little bit of drinking and just about everything else. I’ll put it this way, in a list of visitor tips, organizers of the festival felt compelled to remind people to eat. The action is that non-stop.
The six-day event goes hard from open to close, not that anything ever really closes in New Orleans, where bars can legally sell alcohol 24 hours a day. Like its Fat Tuesday cousin, Mardi Gras, Southern Decadence takes place primarily in the famous French Quarter along Bourbon Street and St. Ann Street. It’s primarily an adult scene. Most indoor events have age minimums of 18 at least. Though, if you’re really concerned about content, this probably isn’t the event for you.
Also like Mardi Gras, Southern Decadence culminates in a grand parade that leaves the historic walls of the French Quarter rocking with noise and excitement. Due to an unfortunate 2008 cancellation in the face of Hurricane Gustav, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, stronger and more ridiculous than ever. It’s even in the theme: “HURRICANE – This year, they blow back!”
Theme colors are silver, black and red, so dress accordingly (and yes, clothing is required).
Southern Decadence takes over New Orleans Labor Day weekend starting September 2 – 7. Many events are free. The festival is predominantly gay male, but organizers welcome all from the GLBT and straight communities, and diverse attendance is on the rise. Learn more.
We checked with our two regular French Quarter hotels, and both still have rooms available, but they’re going fast:
- Chateau LeMoyne – a historic French Quarter hotel just moments from the action
- Holiday Inn French Quarter Hotel – an affordable, convenient option that will serve your needs
Have fun at Southern Decadence 2009 in New Orleans!
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- Attend Jazz Fest 2010 in New Orleans
- Summer Travel Guide – New Orleans Family Vacations
- Visit the 2009 State Fair of Texas – September 25 – October 18
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If you haven’t decided whether or not to indulge in a little Southern Decadence this year, this might help you make a decision. The Decadent Ducks have a limited number of discounted hotel rooms still available. If you’ve never heard of the Ducks, they’re a gay travel and social group and have been doing Decadence for the past 12 years. This year, they’re expecting over 350 group members to come. There’s no fee to join the group, just the cost of your room at the Omni Royal Orleans. Plus, you get to go to their parties and events all weekend long and mingle with 350 of your new best friends. It’s a great way to do Decadence, especially if you’re a single traveler or you’re looking to meet new people right away.
You can find rates and more information about the group at http://www.decadentducks.com/events