In NOLA, we second line year-round to celebrate life. These party parades are an example of the unique traditions that set this city apart from the rest of the country. We march for weddings, for funerals, for holidays and sometimes just for why-not.
One of the most popular traditions during New Orleans weddings is the famous second line parade. At a wedding if signifies the start of a new beginning of life for the bride and groom. A Brass band leads the bridal party and the guests from the ceremony to the reception venue or it may take place at the reception itself. A second line parade has two parts. The first line is usually a brass band and the ones being honored, the newlyweds. The newly married couple leads the second line holding uniquely decorated umbrellas or parasols. Many couples opt to add a grand marshal, an energetic local who heads the parade. All of the guests who want to join in the celebration make up the second line. The guests form a line behind the band and the newly married couple dance to lively music with handkerchiefs or cocktail napkins in hand! Source
I ran into this wedding party at three separate points along their route while I was out, just taking a heck-of-it-style stroll in my neighborhood. The first two times I encountered them, I watched politely from the curb and then continued on my way. But each time I turned a corner, there they were again! So the third time our paths crossed, I took a cue from the universe and got out the cell phone. I figured it was steemit's way of telling me I needed to post this beautiful scene for all to see.
I hope you will be moved like I am by the sweetness of this happy group and the beauty of the scenery. It doesn't matter how long I live here or how many of these parades I participate in; they always hit me as strongly as the first time I ever stood gawking at one, wondering what on Earth the revelers were up to!
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
