According to Carnival historian Errol Laborde, Krewe Bohème is another example of the leadership role that women are taking in carnival. In recent years women have led most of the new organizations. Laborde added that he likes the name Bohème in that it fits in with the artistic character of both Carnival and the Marginy/French Quarter neighborhood. He also noted that the idea of a green fairy as a monarch is especially clever. “It is an insider’s joke,” he noted, “but one worth bringing to light.” Laborde continues, “green fairy” was a nickname given to absinthe, the potent, anise-flavored liqueur used in many of the city’s early cocktails. He said Bohème follows in the tradition of artists parades originally established in the 1970s by the Krewe of Clones. The group, which was based at the then new Contemporary Arts Center, established the small-scale walking parade with miniature floats. The Krewe du Vieux would carry on Clone’s legacy. In the traditions of Carnival, Laborde said, “ideas have a way of re-evolving, each adding its own new touches.”
about the krewe
Krewe Bohéme has the distinct honor of being one of the first parades of Carnival season. Each year Krewe Bohème brings a visual and auditory feast of mystery, artistry and fun. In addition to our parade, we host the annual Absinthe Ball, a dreamy moonlit soirée.
2024 Theme & Royalty
Theme: Absinthe-minded!
Royalty: Big Freedia
Past Themes & Royalty
2019
Theme: L’heure Verte - The Green Hour.
Royalty: Vinsantos DeFonte
2020
Theme: The Soaring 20’s
Royalty: Tarriona “Tank” Ball
2021
No parade due to COVID-19
2022
Theme: Love Letter to New Orleans
Royalty: Chef Linda Green, the “YaKa-Mein Lady”
2023
Theme: Night of the Living Art
Royalty: Charles Gillam, Sr.
The fantastical Krewe Bohème is a 501(c)(7) Social Club and an unconventional collection of artists and merry makers. Founded in 2018, the krewe grounds itself in all-things-green, ever-guided by the absinthe-minded green fairy - thus staying true to its inaugural theme “L’heure Verte” - The Green Hour.
In true bohemian spirit Krewe Bohème’s throws are not ubiquitous, mass produced beads. The krewe stands by its commitment to eco-friendly, sustainable, functional, and/or consumable throws - most of them handmade. Each throw reflects the creative and eclectic Krewe Bohème membership of New Orleans’ bohemians and beauties.