Easter is my favorite day in New Orleans. There is not one, but three parades to celebrate the occasion. All the chill is gone from the air. Everyone who partied too hard for Mardi Gras has given up a vice for lent and can now partake again.
The first is the Historic French Quarter Easter Parade. The society ladies of town dress in their finest and hold elaborate Easter baskets and wear giant bonnets. They parade the streets in mule-drawn carriages and a pink Cadillac. They throw bunnies and gifts to the crowd and then march into the St. Louis Cathedral for mass. After mass, they scoot around the corner for a party.
Soon after the Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade begins. Chris Owens, a staple of the French Quarter, leads large floats, Elvi, llamas, and dance squads on a big loop.
Last, the Gay Easter Parade rolls late afternoon raising money for Food for Friends.
