After COVID19 & Hurricane Ida put a halt to the festivities, Southern Decadence returns ushered in by Grand Marshals Rikki Redd & Danny Girl
Southern Decadence returns to New Orleans in less than one month. This year’s Grand Marshals Rikki Redd and Danny Girl are excited to welcome everyone back for Southern Decadence’s 50th Anniversary, Labor Day Weekend, September 2nd-5th. The schedule of events will culminate with the usual extravagant Parade, led, this year, by Rikki Redd and Danny Girl, that starts Sept. 4th, at 2pm, at The Golden Lantern (1239 Royal Street).
Hotel and flight reservations are surging, indicating that this will be the largest and most exciting Southern Decadence in history. Some believe the swell in interest is due to 2022 being the first occurrence since 2019 after which COVID 19 and then Hurricane Ida interfered with revelers’ plans. However, the XLVI Grand Marshals and their entourages are not without their own concerns this year. Growing anxiety around monkeypox has many worried about the safety of planned events.
“We’re aware of this new health and safety concern to our community and are keeping a close watch on the guidelines coming from the CDC,” said Danny Girl, Grand Marshal XLVI.
“We are encouraging everyone who plans to attend to be as up-to-date on their vaccines as possible. We want everyone to focus on having fun and being themselves while being mindful of best practices,” added Rikki Redd, Grand Marshal XLVI.
With a theme of “Jazz Burlesque and Decadence New Orleans”, the Grand Marshals have chosen Red and Gold as the official colors; dedicated the official poster to activist Kathleen Conlon; and named the Parade in honor of Frederick Wright, the first Grand Marshal, and the people of New Orleans. The Grand Marshals have also announced that they will be making a donation to the LGBT+ Archives Project of Louisianna.
Southern Decadence is an inclusive event for all community members to express themselves and have fun across The Crescent City. The parade is usually populated with groups and performers expressing themselves in various ways ranging from public displays of BDSM and kink-play to dance troupes and second lines. Contrary to popular belief, nudity is strongly discouraged. “We encourage everyone to have their parts covered. You can be scantily clad but not naked,” said Rikki Redd.
The Grand Marshals and their entourages have created space for anyone interested in participating. “If you’re not part of a group, business, or nonprofit but want to be involved, we are searching for volunteers. It’s fun to party with the GMs, behind the scenes, and walk in the parade. If you want to march, it’s free and easy to RSVP at SouthernDecadenceParade.com,” stated Parade Captain Antoinette.
“This year is shaping up to be the largest in history and we’re excited and grateful for this opportunity to make it fun and safe for everyone in large part thanks to our sponsors,” commented Danny Girl. Major sponsors for the 50th Anniversary of Southern Decadence include Ambush Magazine, Grand Pre’s, Chateau LeMoyne – French Quarter, Miller Beer, Skyy Vodka, Golden Lantern, Swiss Navy, and QT Pie Boutique (who will have all things Red and Gold for those looking for last minute outfits), as well as others.
Additional Contact Information for further comments:
Rikki Redd: rickiehill1969@gmail.com
Danny Girl: danielford504@gmail.com
Parade Captain Antoinette: Paradecaptain@southerndecadenceparade2022.com
Ty van der Paxton: paxtontd@gmail.com
