New Orleans Celebrates Barkus Parade This Sunday

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningFestivalsNews

Furry friends take center stage at the Barkus Parade in New Orleans.

News Summary

The Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade is set to take place in New Orleans’ French Quarter this Sunday at 2 PM, celebrating pets and their owners. With over 1,500 participants, this year’s event honors Ruthie, the Queen Barkus 2025, who has an inspiring rescue story. The parade aims to raise funds for animal welfare while bringing the community together in a festive atmosphere, featuring creative costumes, royal pets, and a VIP party for animal lovers.

New Orleans Gears Up for a Paw-sitively Exciting Barkus Parade!

New Orleans, the heart and soul of festive celebrations, is buzzing with excitement as the thirty-second Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade is all set to strut its stuff this Sunday afternoon! Starting at 2:00 PM, the French Quarter will be transformed into a colorful pet lover’s paradise where furry friends take center stage. Originally scheduled two weeks ago, the event had to be postponed due to rain, but it seems the sun has finally joined the party!

Ruthie Takes the Crown!

This year, the much-anticipated title of Queen Barkus 2025 is held by none other than the adorable Ruthie, an 11-year-old Fox Hound-Dalmatian mix. Ruthie’s owner, Barbara Sable, couldn’t be happier about the weather forecast, making this long-awaited day perfect for a parade. Ruthie and her owner have planned some fabulous parade throws and even an official cup themed to match her unique fur, all thanks to a creative design by The Queens Needle.

Ruthie’s Inspiring Backstory

Ruthie is not just a pretty face; she comes with a heartwarming backstory. Her mother was rescued while pregnant with eight puppies alongside a highway in South Carolina, showcasing the resilience and bravery of animals in need. This beautiful tale is echoed in the spirit of the entire Barkus event, which aims to promote animal welfare and celebrate the wonderful bonds between pets and their owners.

Celebrating 32 Years of Barkus

The Mystic Krewe of Barkus has a long history of giving back to the community, raising over $1.5 million for various animal rescue charities throughout its existence. This year, it is projected to bring in more than $100,000 that will go directly to animal welfare efforts. What a pawsitive impact!

Getting Ready for the Big Parade

With over 1,500 participants registered to strut their stuff down the parade route, it’s bound to be a memorable event. Pet owners will showcase their beloved dogs in creative costumes, sharing their love for animals with the whole town. This celebration firmly believes that pets are family, and this is a day dedicated to showcasing that adorable bond.

Meet the King of Barkus

This year’s King of Barkus is the fabulous Master Petey, a sprightly Yorkie and cherished companion of Saints owner Gayle Benson! Having survived a rough encounter with another dog, Master Petey embodies the spirit of resilience and courage, making him a fitting royal figure for the event.

Don’t Miss the VIP Experience!

For those looking to elevate their Barkus experience, a VIP party awaits with tickets sold at $150. It’s a great chance to mingle with fellow animal lovers in style before the parade kicks off.

A Day Full of Celebrations

The chronicles of celebration won’t stop with Barkus as earlier in the day, starting at 9 AM, the Krewe of Elks truck parade will fire up the festivities, followed by the Krewe of Crescent City parade. All parades this year are following adjusted routes, ensuring everyone has a chance to revel in the unique spirit of Mardi Gras celebrations despite previous rain delays.

And just when you thought the fun might end, don’t forget that Jefferson Parish’s Krewe of Argus parade has been rescheduled for March 16, coinciding beautifully with St. Patrick’s Day festivities!

Time to Get the Tail Wags Going!

So, gather your friends, grab your furry pals, and get ready to witness the fabulous Mystic Krewe of Barkus parade this Sunday! The streets of New Orleans will be alive with barking, laughter, and joy as we cheer for rescue stories, pet pageantry, and community spirit. See you there!