Carnival season is a time of traditions. But when Mardi Gras was canceled in 2021, New Orleans had to get creative with how they celebrated. And more importantly, artists that make Mardi Gras so special were out of work at a time that they needed it most.
Krewe of Red Beans came up with a plan that would keep artists working, keep traditions going and keep the spirit of Mardi Gras alive. The solution? House floats. From porches to balconies, residents commissioned artists to decorate the front of their homes.
In partnership with Krewe of Red Beans, we commissioned a house float in the lobby of the Sazerac House. The float was designed and created by a team of local artists including Caroline Thomas, Dana Buehler, Sarah Bastacky, Ryan Blackwood, Ariel Troxclair, Lindsey DeBlieux and Joey Mercer. Then, we sat down with Krewe of Red Beans founder Devin De Wulf to talk about the history of house floats, his Mardi Gras tips and the most important question of all: why beans?
Visit the Sazerac House before 3/1 to see the house float for yourself.
Events
NOLA Cocktail Tour with Paul Gustings
Paul Gustings is a legend in New Orleans, both for his long career in bartending and his infamous walking tour of the French Quarter. Paul, for the first time ever, will lead his storytelling drinking tour from the comfort of Sazerac House! Classic cocktails of New Orleans will co-star alongside Paul’s celebrated tour that up till now has only been available in the smallest of parties. This event is not for the feint of heart—Paul pulls no punches as he gives the gritty history of one of the French Quarter from his 1st hand view. Hear (and drink!) living history!
Walking with Whiskey
Join our distillery team for an in-depth journey through the whiskey making process. From grain to bottle, you'll walk through the steps of making Sazerac Rye Whiskey and conclude with a Sazerac Rye Cocktail Demo.
