Gay rights is still a taboo subject in many corners of the world. It’s hard to believe in 2013 but even in some corners of Europe – notably the profoundly conservative (with a small “c”) former communist bloc – to come out as gay is profoundly risky. And taking part in a gay pride event risks abuse and even physical attack.
Thankfully, the United States is a country where people are free to flaunt their sexuality. And never more so than in New Orleans where one of the city’s annual events – Southern Decadence – ushers in a week of wild partying. Held annually in the French Quarter over Labor Day weekend, this celebration of GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender) rights now attracts as many as 125,000-135,000 participants from all over the world.
This year’s Decadence, the 42nd, runs from Wednesday, August 28 through Monday, September 2 (Labor Day). Dozens of related fun events are scheduled over the six-day stretch.
Nicknamed the “Gay Mardi Gras,” Southern Decadence is one of those quintessential New Orleans occasions that sees participants don extravagant costumes and high fashion. The center of activity is around the intersection of Bourbon and St. Ann streets in the French Quarter where there is always plenty of lively live entertainment. A number of GLBT bars and dance clubs nearby provide nonstop music and dancing. Outdoor concerts on the closed-off streets also add to the weekend’s festivities, as do stage shows in individual clubs.
One of the highlights of each year’s Southern Decadence is the annual parade through the French Quarter on the Sunday before Labor Day. The Grand Marshals lead the marchers and their floats through the streets to the delight of appreciative crowds all along the parade route. The 2013 Grand Marshals are Tami Tarmac and Venus Santiago.
This year’s Southern Decadence Parade will start at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 1. The route is not yet finalized but, if it follows the same route from 2012, it will start near the Old U.S. Mint and the French Market and end at Bourbon and Dumaine streets.
In keeping with tradition, Southern Decadence donates a large portion of its proceeds to a local charity. Past year’s charities include the N/O AIDS Task Force. This year’s official charity has not been announced as of early July. New Orleans is THE place to be seen and the Southern Decadence party is a great opportunity for people of all sexual orientations to have fun. You don’t have to be gay in sexual orientation but you do have to be gay in spirit.
If you need a ride around New Orleans, want to reach one of the events or need to get to a restaurant or hotel – we can help you. Simply give us a call at (877) 592-2226 and we will take care of the rest.