Southern Decadence started thirty-seven 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, the economic impact on the city was estimated to be in excess of $95 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 2007 Grand Marshals were Electra City, Guadalupe and Marcus Martinez, and will name their successors in the summer of 2008. The official theme for 2007 was "Ancient Truths, Lies and Sacrifice" and the colors were crimson, teal and gold. The theme song was "Beautiful Lies" and the Official Home Bar was The Bourbon Pub /Parade.
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 2007, the DJ lineup included Max Rodriguez, Lydia Prim, Chi Chi LaRue, Darren Thomas, 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," has been the hostess for the past ten years, and returns for 2008 for her eleventh anniversary. Performance artist Adam Killian coordinates the incredible stage shows. Cult-comedienne Shirley Q. Liquor returns for 2008 performing to sold-out crowds. The legendary Lady Bunny brings her outrageous show to The Bourbon Pub stage on Friday evening. The Bourbon Street Extravaganza returns with a free outdoor concert on Saturday afternoon at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets featuring recording artists Deborah Cox, Jeanie Tracy and others. And
DECA-DANCE XX, the largest dance event of the weekend, is Saturday night upstairs at The Bourbon Pub / Parade.
A Weekend Pass and advance tickets to Shirley Q. Liquor and Lady Bunny will guarantee admission, save money and allow you to avoid general admission lines. Weekend Passes and advance tickets go on sale in early 2008.
SOUTHERN DECADENCE - Wednesday, August 27 - Monday, September 1, 2008