Film fans were saddened Tuesday, December 27, by the news that actor Carrie Fisher, best known for her iconic role as Star Wars' Princess Leia, had died at age 60. To help celebrate the memory of Fisher, Ryan Ballard, leader of The Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus Carnival marching group, began planning a second line-style parade for Friday, December 30, titled "To Me, She's Royalty: A Parade to Honor Carrie Fisher" with the help of local marching crew The Leijorettes.
The parade is planned to assemble in Markey Park in the Bywater at 3 p.m. and march at 4 p.m. The approximately one-hour parade will travel one block north on Mazant Street, then turn right on Dauphine Street. The parade will turn left on Poland Avenue and proceed to the Chewbacchus den (Castillo Blanco Art Studios) near the corner of St. Claude Avenue (4321 St. Claude Ave.). The Krewe of Chewbacchus is still working to secure permits for the parade and raise funds to cover the costs.
Chewbacchus, one of the fastest-growing Mardi Gras organizations in New Orleans, was greatly inspired by the Star Wars film series. Chewbacchus is a mash-up of the names of Star Wars character Chewbacca and Bacchus, the Roman god of wine.
It has been stated that the memorial party will ensue at the den, with local musicians paying tribute to Fisher. The post-parade party is free to attend, though donations to help defray costs will be accepted.
