Southern Decadence started thirty-nine years ago as a simple going-away party. As a top gay Labor Day Weekend destination, it has evolved into one of our world's major annual events. One of the largest annual celebrations in New Orleans, it has become known as the "Gay Mardi Gras." People begin to arrive on the Wednesday before Labor Day, and generally don't even think about stopping or going home until the following Tuesday. With over 100,000 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender participants, and an economic impact estimated to be in excess of $100 million, the city has recognized its importance with an Official Proclamation to welcome the event.
The city's wildest neighborhood gets even crazier as the French Quarter is packed for the entire event; however, the big day is Sunday. That's when the Grand Marshal leads the annual parade through the streets beginning at 2 p.m. The 2010 Grand Marshals are Julien Artressia from The Bourbon Pub / Parade and
Toby LeFort. The official theme for 2010 is "Leather and Feathers" and the colors are black, powder blue and purple.
The corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets is generally considered to be the epicenter of Gay New Orleans, and even more so during the Southern Decadence festival weekend. At that intersection is the largest gay nightclub, The Bourbon Pub video bar and The Parade dance club, which is home to the hottest dancers in town. Across the street is Hit Parade Gift and Clothing store. Most of the city's main gay attractions are located within a few blocks of this intersection. Check out our French Quarter Map.
Most street party activities take place in the immediate area of the French Quarter, and the dance parties are in the clubs. And since the gay bars never close, there is something happening around the clock. Some of the nation's best DJs work the crowds into a frenzy. For 2010, the DJ lineup will include Brett Henrichsen, Max Rodriguez, Lydia Prim, Chi Chi LaRue, Mike Bryant, Jayskee, Brendan Thompson, Chris Allen and Blair Quintana. No wonder the weekend is often referred to as
Southern DecaDANCE!
Chi Chi LaRue, the "Diva of Decadence," returns in 2010 for his 13th anniversary. The Bourbon Street Extravaganza will return with a free outdoor concert on Saturday afternoon at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets. DECA-DANCE XXII, the largest dance event of the weekend, is Saturday night upstairs at The Bourbon Pub / Parade. And new in 2010: SIN, a party on Sunday just for the girls.
A Weekend Pass will guarantee admission, save money and allow you to avoid general admission lines. Weekend Passes for 2010 are on sale now. And new for 2010 is a VIP Weekend Pass, offering you everything of the regular pass, plus a host of exciting new amenities.
SOUTHERN DECADENCE - September 1-6, 2010