New Orleans has pride for a lot of things, and one of those is Southern Decadence. Fondly known as “Gay Mardi Gras,” the largest LGBTQ+ event in the city takes place in the French Quarter every Labor Day weekend. In 2017, the festivities will start Wednesday, Aug. 30 and culminate on Monday, Sept. 4 (Labor Day).
Southern Decadence brings an around-the-clock party to the epicenter of Gay New Orleans, at the corner of Bourbon Street and St. Ann in the French Quarter, just steps from our LGBTQ+ -friendly New Orleans hotel.
The French Quarter Southern Decadence Parade
The most notable day of this five-day experience is Sunday, Sept. 3, when more than 100,000 people gather to watch the Southern Decadence Parade in the French Quarter. This year’s parade will start at 2:00 p.m. at the Golden Lantern Bar, the headquarters of all things Southern Decadence. Keeping with Decadence’s laid-back, spirited vibe, the parade route is still tentative — but typically, it rolls through St. Ann Street, North Rampart Street, St. Louis Street, and Royal Street (where our hotel is located!). Keep your eyes peeled for dazzling outfits, fun floats, and a canopy of rainbow flags above it all touting LGBTQ pride.
Start Halloween a Little Early
Since Labor Day weekend is the unofficial summer sendoff, it only makes sense to welcome fall with the Halloween New Orleans Southern Decadence party on Friday, Sept. 1. Held in the Rampart Room on Poydras Street, the party features a disco-laced theme: “BOOgie on the Dance Floor.” Proceeds benefit Halloween New Orleans’ mission of assisting Project Lazarus, which provides support and health care to men and women living with HIV/AIDS. Don’t forget to book your next stay to experience the Halloween New Orleans weekend, happening Oct. 21 and 22, 2017!
Spend Southern Decadence at Hotel Monteleone
Whichever letter of LGBTQ+ you represent, or if you’re a straight ally, this a great reason to come visit New Orleans, and we promise it won’t disappoint.
Need to book a New Orleans hotel for Southern Decadence?
Hotel Monteleone is just steps from all the action, and our gay-friendly French Quarter hotel provides a perfect sanctuary when you’re ready to take a break from the action. Book with Hotel Monteleone today.