It’s Labor Day weekend! The 51st Southern Decadence in New Orleans was an unparalleled celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and inclusivity that swept the city by storm.
This annual event, known for its extravagant parades, vibrant costumes, and lively atmosphere, attracted a diverse and enthusiastic crowd from all corners of the globe. In this recap, we’ll delve into the unforgettable moments and the rich tapestry of attendees who came together to make this year’s Southern Decadence a jubilant and unforgettable experience.
Get ready to paint the town rainbow this Labor Day weekend in New Orleans! Southern Decadence is back, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever. As the largest LGBTQ+ event in the South, we’re throwing a party that’ll go down in history.
Join us for a weekend of music, dance, and fabulous fun in the heart of the Crescent City. Let’s make memories and embrace the true spirit of Southern Decadence!
About Southern Decadance
Southern Decadence started back in 1972 with a bunch of buddies who jokingly referred to themselves as the “Decadents.” This cool crew included Michael Evers, his boyfriend David Randolph, Frederick Wright, Maureen and Charlie Block, Robert Laurent, Tom Tippin, Robert King, and Robert Gore, Preston Hemmings, Bruce Harris, Kathleen Kavanaugh, David Red, Ed Seale, Judy Shapiro, and Jerome Williams. They were all young, most of them in college or fresh out of it, and they had a mix of male and female, black and white, and gay and straight members. Pretty awesome, right?
Southern Decadence originated with two vibrant parties, serving as a farewell celebration for Michael Evers and a warm welcome for Maureen. The “Decadents” regularly convened at the illustrious residence known as “Bell Reve” in the Treme neighborhood, affectionately named after the plantation in Tennessee Williams’ iconic play, “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Engaging in lively games of Sunday Night Bourre and croquet, they fostered a spirited social ambiance. Preceding their exhilarating nights of revelry in the French Quarter, the Decadents would often gather at Matassa’s bar, adding an extra dash of excitement to their vibrant escapades.
With Labor Day on the horizon, the vibrant spirit of celebration came alive in Randolph’s heart. Despite being a decade older than Evers, he couldn’t resist the urge to join in on the festivities. As destiny would have it, Wright was making his way back from Chicago, eager to reunite with his beloved friend Evers. And amidst the flurry of excitement, Maureen’s restless soul yearned for thrilling adventures. As the summer drew to a close, they knew deep in their hearts that an exuberant farewell party was the only way to bid adieu to this enchanting season.
The Decadents were like, “Yo, let’s throw a sick costume party on the Sunday before Labor Day!”. It was a total blast filled with spiked punch and lots of party favors, if you know what I mean – think weed and trippy trips with LSD. Good times, man!
Months later, Evers embarked on an exciting journey to reunite with Randolph in the beautiful state of Michigan. Robert Laurent, renowned for his creativity, crafted delightful invitations, inviting everyone to a whimsical gathering where guests were encouraged to dress up as their beloved Decadents. The party was a smashing success, drawing a crowd of enthusiastic individuals eager to bid Evers a heartfelt farewell. Joyful memories were created as approximately fifty attendees joined in the revelry, cherishing the cherished moments and creating a vibrant atmosphere of positivity and anticipation.
In 1973, the Decadents decided to have another party on the Sunday before Labor Day. Laurent suggested they all meet at Matassa’s and “parade” back to Belle Reve. This was the second Southern decadence but the first parade.
The party in 1974 was a blast! The Decadents had a new leader, Frederick Wright, who led the parade. This is when they started the Grand Marshal tradition. It was a total game-changer!
In Southern Decadence in New Orleans (LSU Press), Maureen Block, observes, “Frederick simply had to be the first grand marshal. There was no question about it.” Though he did not live in the city, “he would always make time for a stopover in New Orleans for his job travels. . . . Everyone fought to pick him up at the airport. He was the guiding spirit of the group, a natural force. No one knew what he’d do next, the life of the party, but with a huge heart. Just a lovely man.”
In the vibrant year of 1980, Southern Decadence saw a delightful shift in its festivities. The parade took center stage, becoming the highlight of the celebration. And in 1981, a new tradition was born with the Grand Marshal’s Parade commencing from the iconic Golden Lantern. This cherished tradition continues to radiate joy and excitement to this very day.
After the advent of the internet in the 1990s, Southern Decadence has grown exponentially in both participants and visitors, as well as in terms of economic impact. Over 300,000 revelers are expected to attend Southern Decadence 2018.
“Laissez les bon temps rouler!”
Let me tell you about Southern Decadence. So, back in 1972, a bunch of friends decided to throw an end-of-summer party. Little did they know it would become this huge weekend bash in the French Quarter. The first costume party was actually a farewell for a guy named Michael Evers. Fast forward 41 years, and his fun-loving spirit lives on in this epic celebration of “Laissez les bon temps rouler!”
After parteeeeee!!
After you keep partying in the numerous gay bars and clubs that fill up the Quarter, you won’t believe the energy on the streets! People are blasting their music, dancing, and even drinking outside. It’s a non-stop party!
When you hit up the bars, make sure you’ve got some cash on hand to tip your favorite go-go dancers. They’ll appreciate the love! 😉
The music was freaking awesome, man! You could jam to all sorts of genres, from classics like Diana Ross and ABBA, to the Spice Girls and sick electronic beats. And have you heard the latest banger from Kylie Minogue? Her new single, “Padam Padam,” is fire!
You can access all the pertinent information regarding events for the block at the following URL: events. Additionally, you may obtain a physical copy of the Official Southern Decadence Guide, published by Ambush Mag, upon your arrival in New Orleans.
More info: @officialsoutherndecadence / @southerndecadencenola
Info: southerndecadence.com
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