National Krewe of Tucks Day is held every year on June 9 to celebrate the Krewe of Tucks, which is a New Orleans Mardi Gras krewe. The Krewe of Tucks puts having fun above all else. Even though the group has grown, they have made sure to never lose their sense of humor and maintain their “Animal House” reputation. Tucks is popular for its irreverence and for its satirical floats, including the King’s Throne, which is a giant toilet.
History of National Krewe of Tucks Day
Mardi Gras refers to events of the Carnival celebration. They start on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany, or the Three Kings Day, and culminate on the day preceding Ash Wednesday, also known as Shrove Tuesday. The festival is held in many places around the world but the traditions vary from city to city. The celebrations held in New Orleans, Louisiana are among the most popular ones.
The Krewe of Tucks started in 1969 as a bunch of Loyola University students applied for a permit for the parade. The name Krewe of Tucks comes from the name of the now non-existent Uptown pub Friar Tuck’s where two college students wanted to start their own krewe after they failed at their attempt to become white flambeaux carriers. The flambeau was initially a carrier that served as a beacon for parade-goers in New Orleans to better enjoy the night festivities. Friar Tucks, where it all began, is no longer in business, but the parade rolls on.
The Tucks parade has shown immense growth over the years. Initially, it was a nighttime parade of pick-up trucks. But this was changed to a daytime parade in 1983 and they joined the traditional Uptown to Downtown route in 1986. Even though the group has grown, they have made sure to never lose their sense of humor and maintain their Animal House reputation. Tucks is popular for its irreverence and for its satirical floats, including the King’s Throne, which is a giant toilet. Past Krewe of Tucks’ kings also includes comedic actors like John Candy and Eugene Levy.
National Krewe of Tucks Day timeline
Mardi Gras arrives in North America on March 3, after French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville holds a small gala.
The tiny settlement of Fort Louis de la Mobile celebrates America's first Mardi Gras.
New Orleans is established by Bienville and by the 1730s, Mardi Gras is celebrated openly in New Orleans.
The Krewe of Tucks begins as a bunch of Loyola University students apply for a permit for the parade.
National Krewe of Tucks Day FAQs
How do you join the Krewe of Tucks?
According to their website, there is only one requirement for membership: you want to enjoy yourself, have a great time, and put on a wonderful show for the viewing crowd. There are many other events during the year including food, alcohol, and non-alcoholic beverages. The krewe has both men and women and boasts of over 2,000 members.
What is the oldest krewe in New Orleans?
That would be the Mistick Krewe of Comus, established in 1856. It is the oldest continuous organization of New Orleans Mardi Gras festivities.
What are some of their signature floats?
The Krewe of Tucks has had many iconic floats. Some of them are Ye Olde Outhouse and Ye Royal Bath, which is the only float in Mardi Gras that has a giant functioning slide into a giant hot tub.
National Krewe of Tucks Day Activities
Attend the Mardi Gras parade
Look up the dates for the Mardi Gras parade and visit New Orleans so you can experience the fun in real life! Enjoy the floats, the nightlife, and all the other exciting stuff the city has to offer.
Live free
Follow the Krewe of Tucks’ philosophy by embracing the best version of yourself and living freely. Let loose and have fun even if you can’t make it to the parade.
Join the krewe
Get up close and personal by joining the krewe yourself! According to them, the only requirement to join is wanting to enjoy yourself, have a great time, and put on a magnificent show for the crowds.
5 Facts About Mardi Gras You Didn’t Know
Krewes have different themes each year
The krewes choose a different theme for their parades every year and some even keep the theme a secret till the parade is rolling.
The magic words to catch all throws
“Throw Me Something, Mister” are the magic words used to catch all the throws at the parades.
No corporate sponsorships are allowed on floats
All expenses are paid by krewes and riders as a result of a city ordinance prohibiting Mardi Gras from being commercialized.
Get your makeup on
All float riders are required by law to wear masks or face paint.
The official colors of Mardi Gras
Purple means justice, gold displays power, and green signifies faith.
Why We Love National Krewe of Tucks Day
It has a long history
The Krewe of Tucks has been around for over 50 years and is an important part of the Mardi Gras celebrations. It is a fixture of the event and they take the celebrations very seriously!
They’re fun
No other krewe has more fun or energy. The Tucks has the most different and unique throws.
They have maintained their sense of humor
Despite the immense increase in its size and stature, the Krewe of Tucks has stayed true to its values and maintained its sense of humor. Their energy is truly unmatched!
National Krewe of Tucks Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | June 9 | Monday |
2026 | June 9 | Tuesday |
2027 | June 9 | Wednesday |
2028 | June 9 | Friday |
2029 | June 9 | Saturday |