The Krewe of Cork parade is coming up--a parade that honors indulgence even more than most. The krewe was founded in 2000 and celebrates wine and food, with a walking parade through the French Quarter each year, two Fridays before Mardi Gras Day.
Krewe members dress up in wine-themed costumes and toss throws emblazoned with their symbol: a bunch of grapes. Wine police in golf carts follow behind the parade, and the krewe stops along the route to give toasts outside of their favorite restaurants. Each year, a different wine merchant is chosen for the parade's grand marshal, and the party continues after the parade at the King and Queen Libation Ball.
The krewe has over 400 members, and throughout the year, they participate in wine tastings, dinners, and road trips. This year's grand marshal is wine producer Charles Smith, the founder of Wines of Substance.
The Krewe of Cork parade will be held on Friday, February 14, at 3 p.m. in the French Quarter.