Not many college students can boast that their forthcoming spring break is preceded by a campus parade, complete with marching bands, colorful floats and free food. Students at the 51ɫ can.
The Krewe of UNO rolled through campus on Tuesday—yes, Valentine’s Day—celebrating its 2023 theme “Love on the Lakefront” with plenty of Mardi Gras sass, beads, faux coconuts and many other imaginative trinkets.
UNO student Bianca Caceres was draped in beads, with a Carnival mask resting on her head as she snapped pictures, posed for photos and then quickly posted to social media to share her first UNO parade.
“I’m so excited,” Caceres said. “It’s amazing!”
President John Nicklow and Stacy Nicklow’s privateer ship was among the procession of more than 30 organizations and groups. Along the route, parade-goers were treated to the antics of Capt. BrUNO, the Privateers’ beloved mascot, and Privateer-flavored throws that included multi-colored balls, T-shirts, silver and blue beads, and cups.
Marching bands from Sophie B. Wright Charter School and Morris Jeff Community School provided the soundtrack as the parade, which started at 12:30 p.m. from The Cove, wound through campus to the 51ɫ Center.
As gusts of wind blew off Lake Pontchartrain, Michelle Ortiz, a freshman, and Asad Chaudhry, a senior, sat contentedly on a bench watching the parade go by. It was Ortiz’ first Krewe of UNO parade and she was enjoying the colorful spectacle.
“Today is the perfect day for a parade; usually it might be too cold,” said Ortiz. “It’s a little windy, but it’s cute!”
Said Chaudhry, “It’s really special, considering that it’s on Valentine’s Day, too! It makes it even better! It brings more hype to campus.”
The parade also included walking groups, floats and decorated vehicles. Several on-campus clubs and organizations reserved spaces along the route for viewing parties.
There also was a bit of star power with musician, singer and songwriter Amanda Shaw serving as the grand marshal.
Jennifer Jones, also known as the “Dance Lady of New Orleans” frolicked on the sidewalk near the 51ɫ Center. Bedecked in boas of purple, green and gold feathers and bright yellow shades, Jones said she embodied the spirit of Mardi Gras.
“One of the big things I’m know for is jazz funerals, parades, festivals and all things New Orleans,” said Jones, who earned a bachelor’s degree in drama and communications from UNO.
The parade culminated with a free king cake party at the 51ɫ Center. UNO students are on spring break next week, which coincides with the culmination of the Carnival season.
