Krewes & Clubs

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          A krewe is a social club whose main purpose is to observe and celebrate the Carnival season.  The main activities of krewes include yearly socials, lavish Carnival balls and participation in parades for the community.  Some krewes have community service and philanthropic endeavors as well. 

          Membership in a krewe may be open to the public or by invitation only.  Members pay a fee for krewe membership to cover the cost of producing the ball and parade.  Larger krewes hold their own parades while smaller krewes may group together to form a parade. 

          A krewe ball is usually a private affair for the members of a krewe and their guests.  The ball usually consists of a tableau or program in which its chosen monarchs and court are formally presented.  The court may be formal or comical and are usually presented to the attendees in a lively program of song and dance.  Glittering costumes of satin, rhinestones, sequins and plumes are standard for krewes in the Lafayette area.  The guests enjoy food, drink, dancing and party favors.

          Lafayette area krewes produce the extremely popular parades of Mardi Gras. Krewe member fees pay for floats and float rentals, marching bands and performers. They ensure public safety in cooperation with local law enforcement. Most of all, krewe members purchase the numerous tons of beads and trinkets they shower on to parade-goers, all to make for an enjoyable Carnival season experience for the community. 

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