D.C. Mardi Gras toasts to 2024 king Drew Brees
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Then-newly-elected Gov. John Bel Edwards attends a Mardi Gras ball as part of the Washington, D.C., Mardi Gras festivities in 2016. Photo: Erin Schaff/Washington Post via Getty Images
The who's-who amongst Louisiana political, business and society leaders are gathering in the nation's capital this week for the Mystick Krewe of Louisianians celebrations.
Why it matters: The events, collectively called Washington, D.C., Mardi Gras, export Louisiana's unique traditions for a few days while giving key decision-makers some good excuses to talk a little business on the side.
Context: There were some fits and starts, but the ball was first held in 1944, according to the krewe history, thanks to some homesick congressmen.
- There have been a handful of organizational changes over the years, but today's krewe operates under The Washington Mardi Gras Corporation as a nonprofit, the website says.
- As the Louisiana Illuminator's Julie O'Donoghue writes, "Unlike traditional carnival activities, Washington Mardi Gras is overtly political. Attendees and its biggest benefactors are often deeply involved in Louisiana politics as donors, government officials, lobbyists and their staff."
Plus: Many of the state's beauty queens attend, too.
What's happening: Festivities kicked off Thursday and continues Friday with a Captain's Dinner Dance and presentation.
- It all wraps up Saturday night with a Mardi Gras ball and another presentation.
This year's royalty includes king Drew Brees and Camille Morrison, a 2022 graduate of St. Joseph's Academy in Baton Rouge.
- Sen. John Kennedy serves as this year's chair.