Tell me about Chewbaccus!

Question

Quick weekend trip and realized we’ll be there Sat night during the Chewbaccus parade. Been to New Orleans numerous times but never during Mardi Gras festivities.

Any tips or sights to see this weekend?

Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're in for an exciting weekend in New Orleans! The Chewbaccus Parade is a unique and fun event, especially if you're visiting during Mardi Gras for the first time. Chewbaccus is part of the Krewe of Chewbaccus, a nontraditional, Star Wars-themed Mardi Gras parade that takes place during the carnival season, usually on the Saturday before Mardi Gras Day. It’s a quirky, pop-culture-infused event featuring participants dressed as characters from Star Wars, superheroes, and other fandoms, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Here’s what you can expect and some tips for making the most of your weekend:

Chewbaccus Parade: The parade is known for its fun, irreverent atmosphere. Expect a blend of costumes, creative floats, and elaborate "throws" (Mardi Gras trinkets) like beads, toys, and themed collectibles. It's a more casual and laid-back Mardi Gras event, attracting a younger crowd, so be ready to immerse yourself in the energy and fandom of it all. The parade typically starts in the Marigny neighborhood and rolls through the Bywater area, finishing up near the French Quarter.
Dress the Part: Since Chewbaccus is all about cosplay and fandoms, feel free to join in on the fun by dressing up as your favorite character, whether from Star Wars or any other pop-culture universe. Even if you don't have a costume, you'll still get caught up in the festive vibe!
Where to Watch: The best spots to view the parade are along the Marigny and Bywater streets. These areas will be packed, so try to arrive early to grab a good spot. The parade tends to be less crowded than traditional Mardi Gras parades in the French Quarter, so it's a great opportunity to experience the city's vibrant spirit in a more intimate setting.

Aside from the parade, here are some other things to check out during your weekend in New Orleans:

Live Music: New Orleans is known for its live music scene, especially during Mardi Gras. You’ll find jazz bands, street performers, and clubs with live performances throughout the city. Make sure to check out the Frenchmen Street area for a variety of live music venues, from jazz to blues to rock.
French Quarter Exploration: The French Quarter is always buzzing with activity, especially during Mardi Gras. Wander through Bourbon Street to experience the nightlife, or visit Jackson Square for art, street performers, and a beautiful view of the St. Louis Cathedral.
Mardi Gras World: If you haven’t yet, check out Mardi Gras World, where you can see the massive floats used in the parades and learn about the history of Mardi Gras. It’s an educational and fun stop if you’re new to the festivities.
Café du Monde: You can’t visit New Orleans without stopping by Café du Monde for their iconic beignets and café au lait. It’s a must-do in the French Quarter, especially if it’s your first Mardi Gras visit.
Riverfront Walk: Take a stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront for a more relaxed experience. You can check out the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas or just enjoy the view from Woldenberg Park.

Lastly, be prepared for the energy of Mardi Gras—crowds, noise, and festivities can be overwhelming, but they are also what make this time in New Orleans so special. Whether you're there for the parade or simply to enjoy the sights, you're in for an unforgettable weekend!

Tell me about Chewbaccus!

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