Vendredi

by Mary-Devon Dupuy

It's nearly time for the Krewe of O.A.K. to put its nose in the water, or...other places. The 26th Midsummer Mardi Gras, the annual event that offers New Orleanians a temporary fix for their Fat Tuesday withdrawals rolls Saturday night through Carrollton. The block-party-parade hybrid is coming to the Carrolton area with the same hand-pulled floats, outrageous outfits, and local krewes. This year’s theme is “Motorboatin’ on Oak,” and, as always, costumes are “STRONGLY encouraged.”

One would assume the Krewe of O.A.K.’s name originated from the parade’s home base, but members insist that it is actually an acronym for “Outrageous and Kinky.” Although the parade is a safe, neighborhood-oriented event, parents should hire a babysitter for the night. The 1.5 mile parade will wind through the Carrolton neighborhood and end at Palmer Park with a brass band bash.
 

Like last year's event, Saturday’s foot parade will include those brass bands, homemade floats, and krewes such as the Pussyfooters and the Bearded Oysters. The NOLA Cherry Bombs made their marching debut in 2011, and they’ll be back this year in their red tutus, covering ground as they dance the route away. For the nerds out there, the newly strengthened Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus will also be rolling, with $15 providing access to "Ice Cold Keg Bearing Contraptions."

Those who want to join in all of the Midsummer Night's fun should line up in front of the Maple Leaf at 7pm, as the Krewe will begin parading at 7:30 on the dot. 

Organizers alert fellow merrymakers to stay off the neutral ground, also advising, “when the police sirens go off, it’s time to leave.” After Palmer Park’s brass band bash, the masses are invited to return to the Maple Leaf for a late night block party.