Rex Proclaims Carnival

Today, during the traditional Kings’ Day celebration at Mardi Gras World, Rex, the King of Carnival, by royal edict, proclaimed Mardi Gras 2026.

Rex Official James J. Reiss, III announced the King of Carnival’s proclamation and plans to visit “his beloved Capital City of New Orleans” to celebrate Mardi Gras. The theme of the 2026 Rex parade, Rebirth and Renewal, was revealed.

The 2025 Rex proclamation, by New Orleans artist Saskia Ozols was revealed. The 2026 Rex theme of “Rebirth and Renewal” provided an artistic point of departure for both symbolic and technical inspiration. The artist, Saskia Ozols, utilized oil painting and drawing techniques of the 14th through 19th centuries, specifically the Flemish Vanitas paintings of the 17th century, which were images for meditation on life, mortality, vanity, the intellect, and transformation. Each object in the proclamation painting is a piece of history in and of itself, with rich symbolism steeped in meaning to the Rex Organization. Borrowed from private museums and collections, they range from antique Rex memorabilia to Newcomb pottery and contemporary vessels created by local artists.

Further information on the royal edict, the 2025 Rex parade and the 2025 Rex proclamation can be found in the Rex proclamation press release. Notes on the 2026 Rex theme and parade, Rebirth and Renewal, will be added to the Education Area of the Rex website.