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
The Legends of Buffalo Trace Distillery: Weller Grid Tasting
Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month! The Legends of Buffalo Trace Distillery Series offers guests an intimate setting to dive deep into the history of a bourbon giant whose legacy has shaped the Sazerac bourbon portfolio. This special tasting class invites guests to sip and savor our most prolific, award-winning bourbons made at Sazerac owned Buffalo Trace Distillery, including Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique 107 and Weller Full Proof. Must be 21+ to participate.
Bourbon for Beginners
Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month! Join The Sazerac House for this welcoming, encouraging and exploratory introduction into the world of bourbon. This guided tasting class will teach bourbon beginners how to nose, taste and enjoy bourbon like an expert. Must be 21+ to participate.
The Legends of Buffalo Trace Distillery: Blanton’s Grid Tasting
Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month! The Legends of Buffalo Trace Distillery Series offers guests an intimate setting to dive deep into the history of a bourbon giant whose legacy has shaped the Sazerac bourbon portfolio. This special tasting class invites guests to sip and savor our most prolific, award-winning bourbons made at Sazerac owned Buffalo Trace Distillery, including Blanton's, Blanton's Gold and Elmer T. Lee. Must be 21+ to participate.
Drink & Learn: Bourbon County to Bourbon Street
Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month! Join The Sazerac House and Drinks Historian Elizabeth Peace as we discover how bourbon made its way from Kentucky down to New Orleans. Learn how this spirit shaped New Orleans drinking culture as you taste a special flight of Sazerac portfolio bourbon. Must be 21+ to participate.
