Your guide to Southern Decadence 2024

Flashback: It all started in 1972 when a diverse group of friends, who called themselves "The Decadents," hosted a costume party on the Sunday before Labor Day.

• The vibe, according to the event's history, was marked by "spiked punch and a lot of drug use."
• Right on.
• The following year, The Decadents decided to have another Labor Day party, but they added a parade, and Southern Decadence was born.

These days, the annual event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, according to the event website.

• In short, it's a "non-stop LGBTQ+ holiday of events that range the gamut from dance parties and drag shows to leather contests and naughty private events," former Southern Decadence grand marshal Tony Leggio tells Thrillist.

What they're saying: "It's an experience like no other," one of this year's grand marshals, Jeffrey Mayeaux tells Thrillist. "Through fundraising and celebrating, we're building bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime."

If you go: Official and unofficial events knit together the LGBTQ+ community throughout the French Quarter.

• The street party throughout Gay Bourbon remains the epicenter, with parties at Oz and the Bourbon Pub happening through Monday.
• The French Quarter walking parade is scheduled for Sept. 1 at 2pm. See the route.