Experience one of the thrills of a lifetime with the chance to BE IN A MARDI GRAS PARADE!

The package is for two couples and includes:

-The men getting to ride on a float in a magnificent parade on "Lundi Gras" (the Monday before Fat Tuesday February 15, 2010)  You will be a "Krewe" member of the Orpheus Parade, riding on a "Double Decker" lighted "float" through the streets of New Orleans as the crowds scream "Throw me  somthin' mista!".  You will toss beads, dabloons and trinkets to thousands as you ride through "Uptown" New Orleans all the way to Canal Street. The Krewe of Orpheus was founded in 1993 when actor-musician Harry Connick, Jr. believed that it was time to begin a New Orleans organization that would embrace and celebrate the diverse culture and heritage of New Orleans.  Orpheus is named after the greatest mortal musician and poet of mythology, thus music plays a major role in the theme of the parade and the celebrity guests it includes.  Past performers and attendees include Stevie Wonder, Branford Marsailis, James Brown, The Shirelles, Quincy Jones, Sandra Bullock, Whoopi Goldberg, and Glenn Close, just to name a few.  Harry Connick has been spotted at the extravaganza for all but 3 years of the parade's history.

-The ladies will have the opportunity to watch the parade and cheer you on, then they will be waiting for you in the Convention Center as the floats enter the huge hall and begin a "private" party (5,000 people!) with the Krewe members and their families.  The Black tie event features big name entertainment and an all night party atmosphere! "Orpheuscapade" is an incredible dinner, dance and musical extravaganza.

-Let's back up----Upon your arrival on Saturday, February 13, you will check into the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, the "Crown Jewel of the Crescent City" and Louisiana's only AAA Five Diamond luxury hotel, for a five day-four night stay, departing on Wednesday, February 17 .  It is located in the French Quarter on world-famous Canal Street and is minutes from the Convention Center.  Make a reservation at one of the many world famous restaurants within walking distance and enjoy the "feel of the city".

-Parades To Enjoy

The Sunday before "Fat Tuesday" is really the most fun day of the season, with festivities and awesome parades. Parade watching is almost as much fun as "people watching".    Sunday afternoon parades include Okeanos, Thoth and Mid City (which hosts a fabulous "Battle of the Bands") and the ladies parade of Venus.  Your schedule is up to you!

-The Spectacular Bacchus Parade rides Sunday night through the Garden District, along St. Charles Avenue to Canal Street where it ends at the Convention Center. Big name entertainers and fabulous floats and throws make this an evening to remember. A great place to watch the parade is just in front of your luxury hotel, with safety and convenience a priority.  You may choose to venture into the French Quarter, but we suggest you keep your secrets to yourself!! Don't stay out too late, you have your big day on Monday!

-On Fat Tuesday, after you recover from the Orpheuscapade, your day could begin with (Bloody Marys?) and the famous Zulu Parade (which began as an African American spoof of the Blue Bloods who reigned at the Rex parade.)  The coconuts are keepsakes and the costumes outrageous!

-Later in the morning, the Rex parade, featuring the actual King of Carnival, kicks off a day of family decorated "trucks" which compete for placement in the next year's carnival.  The "throws" of beads, dabloons and trinkets are plentiful and fun to collect.  Plan a menu with the hotel or grab some street vendors for a true taste of Mardi Gras.  It is a long day, you will need a few Hurricanes from Pat O'Brien's to keep you going!

-Sleep in on Wednesday; go get your ashes at one of the beautiful local churches then head on home!  Happy Mardi Gras!

This unique package is perfect for two couples who love fun!  Find a buddy, and make your bid! The excitement is yours for the taking, or throwing!  Happy Mardi Gras!  2010 Mardi Gras only.

(Package details include costs of the Krewe memberships, safety gear, captains' fees, "throw" allowance, hotel accommodations and the Orpheuscapade extravaganza.  Please contact donor for details)

Donated by:

Anne and David Dunlap, Cooper Parents

Priscilla and Kirk Kanady, Cooper Parents