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Darlings, let me tell you, Easter in New Orleans isn’t about chocolate bunnies or pastel dresses—it’s about strutting your stuff, serving looks, and embracing all the fabulousness that the Gay Easter Parade brings to our gloriously extra city. Mark your calendars because on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, this legendary event will turn the French Quarter into the most colorful, campy, and downright delightful spectacle you’ve ever seen. And guess what? You’re just one hop away from the action when you stay at the New Orleans Guest House, perfectly perched just a block from all the madness, I mean, magic.
Now, before we dive into why you absolutely need to book a long weekend with us (spoiler: you do), let me give you the lowdown on this fabulous parade and its accompanying events.
A Parade Like No Other
First things first, the Gay Easter Parade kicks off at 4:30 PM, sashaying its way through the heart of the French Quarter with a lineup of decked-out floats, horse-drawn carriages, and a glitter explosion of stunningly dressed participants. Think ball gowns, tuxedos, sequins, and more feathers than a Vegas revue—all parading to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and raise money for charity. This year’s proceeds go to Food For Friends, a local program providing meals to individuals living with HIV/AIDS, so it’s not just fun—it’s fabulous with a purpose.
The parade begins at Armstrong Park, takes a spirited tour through the Quarter, and loops back to its starting point. Pro tip: Stake out your spot early because the crowd gets as thick as the New Orleans humidity in July (and just as spicy).
A Bit of History, Darling
This parade began in 2000, spearheaded by the legendary Rip and Marsha Naquin-Delain, icons of the New Orleans LGBTQ+ scene. What started as a small gathering has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the year. It’s not just a parade—it’s a celebration of love, diversity, and all things unapologetically fabulous. Over the years, it has evolved into a full-on Easter extravaganza with events and activities that make the entire weekend a reason to break out your best pastels—or leather, depending on your vibe.
More Than Just a Parade
Of course, no New Orleans celebration stops at just one event. Here’s what else is happening Easter Sunday:
- The Bourbon Street Extravaganza: After the parade, head to Bourbon Street for live music, impromptu dance parties, and all the debauchery you can handle. This is where the line between “Easter bonnet” and “drag masterpiece” really starts to blur.
- Charity Brunches: Feeling fancy? Many of the French Quarter’s top restaurants are hosting pre-parade brunches, complete with flowing mimosas and an overwhelming number of deviled egg options. (Egg-cellent, am I right?)
- After-Parties Galore: Whether you prefer a low-key cocktail or dancing until dawn, there’s an after-party for every taste. The Phoenix Bar and Oz New Orleans are top picks if you’re ready to twirl and twerk your way into Easter Monday.
Why Stay With Us?
Now, let me paint you a little picture of your weekend at the New Orleans Guest House. Imagine waking up in one of our clean and affordable rooms, greeted by a warm and welcoming staff who truly love to make you feel at home. You step outside, and bam—a streetcar stop is right there, visible from our front door, ready to whisk you to every corner of the city. And the French Quarter? Honey, you’re practically already there—it’s just a short, fabulous strut away.
Book a long weekend stay and enjoy the full Easter experience. Fly in on Good Friday, indulge in the Quarter’s unique mix of brunch spots and bars on Saturday, and wake up Sunday ready for the Gay Easter Parade and all its glorious festivities. Stick around for Monday to recover—or not, we don’t judge. For more information on accommodations call us directly at 504.566.1177 OR 1.800.562.1177. You may also visit us online at neworleansguest.house.
Don’t Wait, Sweetheart!
The Gay Easter Parade is one of those bucket-list events you don’t want to miss. With so much fun, flair, and fundraising, it’s the perfect excuse to pack your bags and hop over to New Orleans for a weekend of unapologetic revelry.
So, what are you waiting for? Hop to it and book your stay with us at the New Orleans Guest House. Because in this city, we don’t just celebrate Easter—we make it fabulous.