Inside Look at Mardi Gras Dance and Auxiliary Groups

BATON ROUGE, La. (THE LOUISIANA WEEKEND) - Parades are a major part of Carnival Season. We all love watching elaborate floats and the sounds of marching bands. We take pictures and catch beads. While this is a good way to enjoy the parade, groups really make parades fun. There are dance groups, non-profit organizations, community organizations, pageant royalty and more in Mardi Gras parades.

We spoke with a local dance group, the Baton Rouge BeignYAYs about their enthusiasm, dancing, and love for parades. They are usually dressed in turquoise and gold glitter. You guessed it, whenever you see a member of the Baton Rouge BeignYAYs, simply yell “YAY”. This year, you can see the Baton Rouge BeignYAYs in Krewe Mystique de la Capitale, Krewe of Orion, Mid City Gras, Southdowns, and Spanish Town parades.

We also spoke with a Mardi Gras Indian, Big Queen Tonya of the Wild Tchoupitoulas Indians. She shared the rich history of the Mardi Gras Indians as well as their participation in Mardi Gras festivals and events. You can see Big Queen Tonya at the Baton Rouge Mardi Gras Festival, and the 225Fest.

For more on these Mardi Gras events visit out Mardi Gras guide HERE