16th Annual Joan of Arc Procession

Joyeux Anniversaire, Jeanne d’Arc! And Happy Mardi Gras kick-off!

Celebrating St. Joan of Arc’s birthday and Twelfth Night, this annual walking parade is a medieval-themed theatrical procession, inspired by Joan’s time in 1400s France.  Joan of Arc liberated the citizens of Orleans, France, from a British siege in her first victory in 1429 – resulting in her moniker “The Maid of Orleans.” This procession honors a unique, unofficial patron saint, The Maid of New Orleans: the beloved  golden French Quarter statue, a gift to the City of New Orleans from France in the 1950s, and the French history and heritage. It’s a short, family-friendly parade – quirky, whimsical and spiritual. Click through for route map and more.

The procession typically starts on time at 7 sharp, makes a few pauses for a bit of medieval pageantry, and ends around 8:30pm:

• A toast to the royalty and young Joan “Maid of Honor” in English and French from the balcony of the Historic New Orleans Collection
• A sword blessing at Saint Louis Cathedral
• A pause to sing Happy Birthday at the Joan of Arc statue
• The crowning of the king and king cake ceremony at the end at Oscar Dunn Park (the sidewalk amphitheater next to Cafe Du Monde).

Event details subject to change. Click source links for latest information.