Drew and Brittany Brees Celebrate New Orleans in Bacchus Parade

Former Saints QB and wife ride in iconic Mardi Gras parade, sharing message of love for the city.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 4:23pm

On Sunday, February 15, former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees and his wife Brittany rode in the Krewe of Bacchus parade in New Orleans, their third time participating in the iconic Mardi Gras event. This year's float featured a statue of Brees and an LED-lighted sign thanking the "Who Dat Nation." Brees shared a heartfelt message on Instagram about how much the city means to him and his family, even as he heads to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Why it matters

Brees' continued involvement in New Orleans' Mardi Gras celebrations, even after his retirement from the Saints, demonstrates the deep connection he and his family feel to the city. As a beloved figure who led the Saints to a Super Bowl victory, Brees' enduring love for New Orleans resonates with fans and underscores the city's unique culture and community.

The details

This was the third time Brees has participated in the Bacchus parade, having previously ridden in 2007 and served as the parade's Grand Marshal in 2010. This year's float included a statue of Brees and an LED sign flashing "Thank you, Who Dat Nation." Brees shared a message on Instagram about the special meaning of this year's parade, noting that several of his friends were experiencing Mardi Gras in New Orleans for the first time.

  • Drew Brees rode in the Bacchus parade in 2007.
  • Drew Brees served as the Bacchus parade Grand Marshal in 2010.
  • Drew and Brittany Brees rode in the Bacchus parade on February 15, 2026.

The players

Drew Brees

A former quarterback for the New Orleans Saints who is now headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Brees has a deep connection to the city of New Orleans and has participated in the iconic Bacchus Mardi Gras parade multiple times.

Brittany Brees

The wife of former Saints quarterback Drew Brees. She joined her husband in riding in the Bacchus parade, sharing in his love for the city of New Orleans.

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The takeaway

Drew Brees' continued involvement in New Orleans' Mardi Gras celebrations, even after his retirement from the NFL, demonstrates the enduring bond between the former Saints quarterback and the city he helped lead to a Super Bowl championship. Brees' message of love and gratitude for the "Who Dat Nation" resonates with fans and underscores the unique community spirit that defines New Orleans.