Today is Twelfth Night. King's Day. The beginning of the Carnival season.
In New Orleans, the day is marked by two major krewe parades: the Phunny Phorty Phellowes streetcar ride and, this year, the second annual running of the Krewe of St. Joan of Arc parade.
A foot parade running through the French Quarter, the St. Joan Krewe's celebration runs from Conti Street at Decatur to the Joan of Arc statue by the French Market.
Come see.
The temperature in the Quarter tonight is just around 40 degrees, shocking for us, but perfect compared to last night and tomorrow. Just the right weather to kick off the season. And who better to do it but the birthday girl, the Maid of Orleans.
The banner carriers and pipers get ready to lead the parade.
The birthday girl herself, mounted up and ready to ride!
Some of the krewe's throws this year: votive candle, "Joan for Mayor" matchbooks, holy water.
Although the St. Joan Krewe is the youngest Carnival organization in the city, they have already become indispensable, reminding us of our French colonial roots and strengthening our ties to the mother country.
Happy birthday, Joan. Long may you ride.