Southern Decadence was cancelled in 2020 for the pandemic, then again in 2021 for Hurricane Ida. 2022 marked the 50th anniversary of the costumes, parties and parades celebrating the LGBTQ community. The now-6-day weekend attracts over 210,000 people annually and creates a $250 million economic impact making it one of the top 5 annual events in New Orleans.
This year’s colors were red and gold. The weather was a forgiving mid-80’s with a slight drizzle. For once, it wasn’t blazing hot or doused in rain. My Pussyfooter sisters ask why I don’t dance along with them on the route, but this is one of my favorite events to photograph.
Other dance troupes and walking krewes included the Big Easy Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Mystic Krewe of the Lords of Leather, New Orleans Louisiana Pups and Handlers, Krewe of the Rolling Elvi, Disco Amigos, Muff-A-Lottas, Big Easy Roller Derby, Camel Toe Lady Steppers, AllWays Cabaret & Lounge, The Beyjorettes, Krewe d’Esprit, Ritmeaux Krewe, Nola Heat, Lucha Krewe, National Salad Tossers Union (Seattle), Roux La La, NOLA Night Lights, Streetcar Strutters, Krewe des Fleurs, Krewe of Chewbacchus, Krewe de Lune’s Star-Steppin’ CosmoNaughties, Crescent City Fae, Sassyracs, Krewe of Goddesses, The Jamettes and more.
L.A. to N.O.LA 