January 6th
Every year, Krewe de Jean D'Arc kicks off the Mardi Gras season with a celebration of Twelfth Night-and Joan of Arc's birthday. Inspired by Joan of Arc's time in 1400's France, this medieval-themed parade celebrates the liberation of citizens of Orleans, France from Britain, coining her moniker "The Maid of Orleans." There's no better way to honor the unofficial patron saint of New Orleans than to take part in this unique foot parade. joanofarcparade.org/
Uptowners and those along the St. Charles Avenue streetcar route can celebrate the beginning of Carnival with the Phunny Phorty Phellows. The fun starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Willow Street Car Barn where members of the Krewe of Oak gather to toast the Phellows. At 7:00 p.m. the special streetcar filled with masked and costumed members and the Storyville Stompers will ride to Canal Street before returning to the Car Barn for an after-party. phunnyphortyphellows.com
Those along the Rampart-St. Claude Avenue streetcar route can catch the Société Des Champs Elysée. This group of 40 members boards at 7:30 pm at North Rampart Street and Elysian Avenue, continuing to Union Station before returning. Similar to the Phunny Phorty Phellows, these revelers will throw beads and toys. societedeschampselysee.org
