Parade Spectator Survival Kit
- Laura Kuhn
- Aug 10
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 13
Everything you need to thrive, survive, and catch like a pro.

Parade day in New Orleans is a glorious mix of music, beads, and questionable fashion choices—but survival takes strategy.
Arm yourself with comfy shoes, a tote for your loot, snacks worthy of a king (cake), and enough water to keep your daiquiri company.
Toss in a poncho for those “surprise” showers, sunscreen for that sneaky Louisiana sun, and a sense of humor for whatever the parade throws your way (literally).
With this kit, you won’t just watch the floats—you’ll rule the route.

Reusable Tote Bag
For beads, throws, and questionable trinkets you’ll pretend you didn’t fight for.

Comfy Shoes
Because the only blisters you want are from the brass band’s trumpet.

Folding Chair
Your throne between floats. Bonus points if it has a cupholder.

Snacks
King cake slices, pralines, or a po'boy—fuel is non-negotiable.

Water Bottle
Stay hydrated. No one likes parade-dehydration grumpiness.

Rain Poncho
The weather in New Orleans has mood swings.

Phone Charger
Pics or it didn’t happen.

Cash
For food stalls, drinks, and that “emergency” round of beignets.

Sunscreen
Even in spring, that Louisiana sun doesn’t play.

Sense of Humor
Because parades are unpredictable, and that’s half the fun.
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