Hermes

Grand Ball

Since 1940, the Mystic Krewe of Hermes has hosted an annual white-tie ball to present the King Hermes and his Queen. The event takes place on the Thursday before Mardi Gras. The elaborate tableau and subsequent supper dance are among the highlights of Carnival festivities in New Orleans. 

The Hermes queen, wearing an ornate crown and a gold dress with intricate embroidery, stands in front of a fireplace with colorful flowers on the mantel and a gold statue of a man with a sword behind her.
Close-up of the Hermes queen showing her Hermes pin.
Back of the Hermes queen's head wearing a large, ornate gold and diamond crown or tiara.

Preparation begins months in advance with the selection of the King and Queen. Staying true to the tradition of a mystic krewe, the Hermes King’s identity is not revealed publicly. The Queen, however, is announced and celebrated for her achievements and contributions to the community. 

The Hermes king, wearing a large gold crown, a white and gold embroidered robe, holding a scepter, standing in front of stained glass windows.
A table decorated with floral arrangements and a white marble statue of Hermes, surrounded by yellow orchids, white, pink, and purple roses, and greenery, with empty wine glasses and plates, in a formal dining setting.
A glass decorative box with intricate gold and colored details, including a crown, eagle wings, a star, a cross, a lion head, a laughing mask, and initials 'K' and 'C' in green and purple, set against a floral wallpaper background.
Formal table setting with a menu, a decorated napkin with a medal, two wine glasses, and patterned plates, indicating a special event or celebration.
White marble bust of a classical man with curly hair and a cloak, surrounded by a vibrant bouquet of yellow, white, purple, and green flowers and leaves, set on a dark wooden table in a room with ornate wallpaper and a gold-framed mirror in the background.

Every year has a theme that is reflected not only in the parade’s floats but also in the ball’s invitations and programs. The invitations feature elaborate art and are celebrated for their design.

Illustration of a man in Renaissance-style clothing standing outdoors near a waterfall and lush greenery, with grapevines overhead and swans in the water.
A colorful illustration of four women dancing in a circle beneath a large blossoming tree with yellow fruit; the background shows the sun shining over green hills.
Invitation with yellow background, decorative border, and illustrated branches with yellow berries, announcing a formal event at the Sheraton Hotel in New Orleans.
A watercolor painting depicts a medieval scene with a castle on a mountain, surrounded by trees and a river. Four warriors, three male and one female, who appear to be fighting or arguing, are in the foreground near the river.
A medieval illustration of three armored knights on horseback charging through clouds with a castle in the background, under a bright sun, with a bird flying below.
Vintage-style invitation to a grand ball featuring a decorative border, dark clouds, and a flying bird, with formal black letter text detailing the event details.

The ball itself features a presentation of the King and Queen, along with their courts. Supper and dancing follow.

A large theatrical stage set to resemble an ancient Greek garden with columns, greenery, and a backdrop of trees. The stage features two central figures, likely a bride and groom, dressed in elaborate costumes, with a group of people dressed in period costumes and white dresses surrounding them, forming a ceremonial or celebratory scene. The foreground has a decorated floor with a crest or emblem.