Mid City Gras Will Hold 'Reverse Parade' In 2021

As cities across Louisiana are making difficult decisions regarding Mardi Gras 2021, Mid City Gras in Baton Rouge has devised a unique plan to keep the party going — a reverse parade.

On Monday, November 30, organizers announced that rather than the traditional parade down North Boulevard on February 7, krewes will instead decorate their homes to match the 2021 theme "MASKparade." Mid City Gras leaders said the change will allow them to "keep the spirit of Mardi Gras going, while fitting in with the necessary restrictions currently in place to control the spread of the coronavirus pandemic."

"We though this would be a safe and responsible way to celebrate a holiday that is part of the fabric of Louisiana culture," said Twanda Lewis, president of Mid City Gras. "We want to inspire creativity and uplift the community during a difficult time."

Krewes wishing to participate can sign up at www.midcitygras.org starting Tuesday (December 1). Each household will pay $15 an have an option to donate an additional $10 that would benefit Mid City charities. Signs and a map listing will be available on the website so people can drive around Mid City to look at the decorations.

While 2021's celebration will look different than years past, organizers are hopeful for the future of Mardi Gras in Louisiana.

"This has been a tough, sad few months for everyone," said Nathan Ryan, head of the Mid City Gras Irreverence Committee. "We want people to enjoy our reverse parade and hopefully we can come back strong with a full Mid City Gras in 2022."

More details about the reverse parade will be released in January 2021.

Photo: Getty Images