The Krewe of Endymion is one of only three Super Krewes, defined by spectacular floats and celebrity Grand Marshals, and is the largest of the 80 or so parades participating in New Orleans Mardi Gras. Many people begin saving their viewing spots for this parade several days before the parade actually rolls. It was founded in 1966 and named after Endymion {en-dim'-ee-uhn},from Greek mythology.

Its motto, "Throw Until it Hurts", defines a tradition of being extremely generous with its throws, tossing millions of beads,  ups, doubloons and trinkets during its annual parade, held the Saturday before Mardi Gras. The parade is immediately followed with a spectacular party called the 'Endymion Extravaganza', which rivals anything that Las Vegas offers. It was held from 1974 to 1980 at the now demolished Rivergate Convention Center. Since 1981, it has been held in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome except in 2006 when it was held at the New Orleans Morial Convention enter due to repairs to the Superdome after being damaged from Hurricane Katrina and also in 2011 due to the final Phase 3 renovations to the Superdome. The Krewe returned to the Superdome in 2012. In recent years, the krewe has had over 2500 members and over 15,000 guests at its Extravaganza.  

Endymion has a rich tradition of celebrity Grand Marshals: Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Patrick Duffy, Smokey Robinson, Heather Locklear,  Michael Bolton, Wayne Newton,, Gene Simmons, David Schwimmer, Al Green, STYX,  Kevin Costner, Kid Rock, Train, Anderson Cooper, Kelly Ripa, Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine with Maroon Five, and Carrie Underwood.

The Krewe of Endymion has, year after year, challenged themselves to make their parade the crown jewel of Mardi Gras Parades.  Students, band directors, and parents have said that simply marching in a parade of this magnitude is an unforgettable experience. Please contact us for further information.  Placement is limited and on a first come basis and fills up quickly. 

Krewe of Endymion

Mardi Gras parade bands