The Bayou State’s Mardi Gras-inspired float will cruise the streets of Pasadena on Monday in the 135th Rose Parade. This year’s theme is “Celebrating a World of Music: Universal Language.” Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says this is an opportunity to put Louisiana on the front line and drive tourism.
“Over the last several years, we’ve gotten thousands of people to come from all over the world to Mardi Gras in Mardi Gras cities all across Louisiana, and that continues to grow every year.”
The float will feature a larger-than-life Mardi Gras jester, second-line inspired umbrellas, fleur de lis, and lots of purple, green, and gold. More than 90 volunteers from Louisiana and across the country will decorate the massive float.
Second-year rider, Assistant Vice President of Communications for the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission Kaylie LeBlanc…
“Last year was definitely a pinch-me moment. Seeing it in person is just an entirely different experience. I’m so excited and happy to hear of all the volunteers that come from Louisiana to be here in Pasadena to help decorate the float it’s an amazing process. It’s unlike anything else.”
Grammy-nominated zydeco musician Sean Ardoin, Cajun fiddler Amanda Shaw, and legendary guitarist James Burton will render a musical performance along the parade route. And Lafayette musician Sydney “Sid” Williams will be representing Lafayette Parish on this year’s float.
Nungesser says this year’s riders highlight the celebratory spirit of great musicians from Louisiana. He hopes this will be another award-winning float that exposes all that the Bayou State has to offer.
“Hopefully Louisiana will again. We won awards in both years. Hopefully, this year will be the same. As we’re real proud of the float and everyone riding this year.”
View photos and videos of the decorating process at explorelouisiana.com. The parade will broadcast at 10 am on ABC New Year’s Day.
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