The Krewe of Roux at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette will ring in Mardi Gras with several student-organized activities set for Thursday.
The krewe’s parade will roll first, followed by a crowning ceremony for the 2017 king and queen, and a king cake giveaway. That night, it will host its Mardi Gras Ball.
The parade, an annual event for almost 30 years, will begin at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23. It is sponsored by the University Program Council.
“It’s a really cool tradition that’s led by students and a way for them to celebrate without even having to leave campus,” said Karli Sherman, UPC assistant director, student activities.
The parade will begin on Rex Street, turn right onto St. Mary Boulevard, turn left onto Hebrard Boulevard and end on Boucher Drive.
UL Lafayette students, departments, organizations, and faculty and staff members who register can participate. Floats are prohibited but cars and trucks are allowed.
“Some people will ride bikes and walk, too,” Sherman said.
Lineup for the parade will begin at 3 p.m. along Rex Street, in front of Griffin Hall.
Students, staff, and the public are invited to watch. Glass containers and alcohol are prohibited. Mardi Gras beads, plastic cups, and candy will be some of the “throws” tossed to spectators.
Following the parade, the Krewe of Roux king and queen will be chosen during a short ceremony that will be held along Boucher Street. Student organizations can nominate one candidate for duke and one candidate for maid.
Each duke and maid will share a slice of king cake. The king and queen will be determined by which pair receives the piece of cake that contains the small, plastic baby.
The free event is open to the public. Attendees will be able to enjoy music played by a disc jockey and refreshments, including king cake.
The Krewe of Roux Mardi Gras Ball will be held that night, from 8-11 p.m. at the Cajundome Convention Center.
This year’s theme will be “Cajun Cabaret.” Boom! Boom! Burlesque, a dance troupe, will perform and a disc jockey will play music. Hors’ d’ouvres will be served.
Semiformal attire is required. Organizers expect at least 500 people to attend the ball. The third-year event is free and open to the public.
“In the past, it’s been free only for students, but this year we’re including anyone who wants to come,” Sherman said.
Buses will run from the University’s Student Union to the convention center, beginning at 7:45 p.m.
To learn more, visit upc.louisiana.edu or call (337) 482-6945.