Rex Announces 2017 Theme

Rex, the oldest parading Carnival organization, presents its 136th parade, led by the Captain on his white horse. Thirty-three lieutenants on horseback appear in the 26-float procession, which brings history and beauty to the streets of New Orleans. Using traditional materials, Rex floats are rebuilt each year, most on old wagon chassis with wooden-spoke wheels. The 2017 theme, “Carnival Fêtes and Feasts,” highlights the varied and colorful ways Carnival is celebrated around the world. The Ancients celebrated the transition from Winter’s darkness to Spring’s light and promise with feasts and festivals, and with the advent of Christianity Shrove Tuesday marked the last exuberant celebration before Lent’s solemnity and fasting began on Ash Wednesday. These diverse and colorful traditions inspire the theme and float designs of the 2017 Rex Procession.

Once again, materials will be provided to help students explore the cultural, historical and artistic possibilities of “Carnival Fêtes and Feasts” in the Rex in the Classroom area of the Rex website.