One touching Yardi Gras display honors recently lost legends from NOLA’s important musical history.
Yardi Gras has become a sacred part of 2021’s Mardi Gras celebrations. Elaborate decorations and themed house floats have lit up New Orleans in its iconic colors of purple, green and gold. Locals are loving the innovative alternatives that have replaced the usual festivities.
Known for its influence in jazz music, New Orleans prides itself for its historical impact on the genre. And several houses have honored significant hometown heroes in music, politics, and beyond.
Located at 6075 Laurel Street, a house float honors some of the New Orleans culture bearers who passed away in 2020. The touching tribute features artistic portraits of Ellis Marsalis Jr., Alfred Roberts, Big Al Carson, and Jesse Hathorne.
Local radio station WWOZ and the Jazz Foundation of America teamed up with local NOLA artist Brendon Palmer-Angell to make this heartwarming masterpiece happen.
Yardi Gras, and incredible house floats like this one are a touching reminder to why there are restrictions for this year’s festivities. But the spirit that exudes from the creativity and community is a reminder that regardless of the restrictions, you can always turn your music up louder.
Make sure you check out all the incredible Yardi Gras decorations across New Orleans before they get taken down. It’s a guaranteed wonderland.
Featured Image: @wwoz_neworleans
Video: @joshuastarkman