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Lundi Gras Uptown Parade Draws Crowds
Proteus and Orpheus krewes roll through St. Charles Avenue with beads, floats, and revelry
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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The Uptown parades of the Krewe of Proteus and the Krewe of Orpheus drew large crowds to St. Charles Avenue on Lundi Gras, the day before Mardi Gras. The parades featured traditional flambeaux, signature floats, and high-energy celebrations as revelers yelled for throws and enjoyed the festive atmosphere under mild, partly cloudy skies.
Why it matters
The Lundi Gras parades mark the crescendo of New Orleans' Carnival season, setting the stage for the grand finale of Mardi Gras day. These parades are a beloved tradition that bring the community together in a vibrant display of the city's unique culture and spirit.
The details
The Krewe of Proteus kicked off the Lundi Gras festivities at 5:15 pm, followed by the Krewe of Orpheus at 6 pm. Proteus featured traditional flambeaux and a "Journey of the Sun Wukong" theme, while Orpheus rolled out crowd-favorite floats like the Smokey Mary and the Captain's Galleon. Orpheus also had actor Noah Wyle as its monarch and planned to cap the night with the Orpheuscapade after-party at the convention center.
- The Krewe of Proteus parade started at 5:15 pm on Lundi Gras (February 17, 2026).
- The Krewe of Orpheus parade started at 6 pm on Lundi Gras (February 17, 2026).
- The Orpheuscapade after-party was scheduled to take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center following the Orpheus parade.
The players
Krewe of Proteus
One of the oldest and most prestigious Carnival krewes in New Orleans, known for its traditional flambeaux and creative parade themes.
Krewe of Orpheus
A popular Carnival krewe that features signature floats like the Smokey Mary and the Captain's Galleon, as well as a ticketed after-party called the Orpheuscapade.
Noah Wyle
An actor who served as the monarch for the Krewe of Orpheus parade.
What’s next
Mardi Gras day will feature the culmination of the Carnival season, with the Rex and Zulu parades rolling through the streets of New Orleans.
The takeaway
The Lundi Gras parades in Uptown New Orleans are a vibrant and essential part of the city's Carnival celebrations, drawing large crowds and showcasing the community's spirit and cultural traditions.
