After long, celebratory lunches on Hermes Friday, the French Quarter buzzes with activity as tourists and locals flood the streets in a jovial mood.

Near St. Louis Cathedral, the King of the Mystic Krewe of Hermes and the krewe captain ascend into a horse-drawn carriage. In front of them stands a giant statue of Hermes holding his torch. Behind them, two marching bands and throngs of Hermes krewe members, nattily dressed in business attire, krewe ties, and their prized Hermes gold pins, gather.

A man in a blue suit and purple hat is standing in a horse-drawn carriage, holding a silver chalice and smiling. The carriage is decorated with red upholstery, and there are onlookers and reporters nearby. In the background, there are buildings with balconies and flags.

At 2 pm, the marching bands come to life with a thunderous sound. The Hermes Walking Parade has begun. As they march through the quarter, the krewe throws beads and doubloons to the happy crowds.

A marching band with saxophones, dressed in band uniforms with light blue, black, and red colors, and wearing white hats with feathers.

The Walking Parade has become a must-see event for many years and is one of the delightful moments for which New Orleans Carnival is known.

Mystic Krewe of Hermes - Walking Parade - French Quarter

Members of the Mystic Krewe of Hermes marching in the French Quarter in New Orleans.