Hermes - Iris

Toast to the Messenger Gods

The first of the Hermes Friday festivities starts in the French Quarter when two historic New Orleans Mardi Gras krewes come together to kick off four days of Carnival fun. 

On the Friday before Mardi Gras at 10:45 am, the Mystic Krewe of Hermes, the Krewe of Iris, their royal entourages, and hundreds of their fans gather at the corner of Royal and St. Louis Streets outside the Royal Orleans Hotel.

Group of five adults dressed in colorful, festive attire standing outdoors on a sunny day, participating in a celebration or parade, with buildings and other people in the background.
Crowd of people gathered in the French Quarter for the Hermes and Iris toast, many wearing purple hats and costumes, with some holding flowers and taking photos.

Not only does the Annual Toast to the Messenger Gods honor the inspirations for the two venerable krews, but it also generates excitement for Hermes Friday events, including the Hermes Evening Parade that night and the Krewe of Iris Parade the following day. 

In Greek mythology, Hermes was the Messenger God and the protector of commerce and travelers. Iris was a messenger of the gods and the goddess of the rainbow. Both were adopted by their krewes as sources of inspiration. The common message both krewes celebrate is Mardi Gras fun!

Crowd gathered in a street parade dressed in purple, green, and yellow, many wearing hats and crowns, with feathers and flowers, holding umbrellas and taking photos. The buildings have balcony railings and lanterns.