Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, in collaboration with the Louisiana Office of Tourism, has revealed the distinguished lineup of float riders and performers designated to represent the state in the upcoming 135th Rose Parade® in Pasadena, California on January 1, 2024.
READ: EXCLUSIVE: Unleashing the Ultimate Guide to Eagles vs. Chiefs Showdown
Louisiana, marking its third consecutive appearance in this renowned annual tradition, is set to grace the national and international stage under the theme “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language.”
Louisiana
Among the noteworthy participants is Sydney “Sid” Williams, an acclaimed musician and the longstanding proprietor of El Sido’s Zydeco & Blues Club, who will be the representative for Lafayette Parish on the float. Ben Berthelot, President and CEO of Lafayette Travel, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Sid Williams’ musical prowess and his significant contributions to the community.
Lieutenant Governor Nungesser provided insights into Louisiana’s float for the 2024 Rose Parade®, which will feature a larger-than-life Mardi Gras jester, fleur-de-lis, second-line umbrellas, and the iconic colors of purple, green, and gold. The rolling spectacle will showcase the vibrant sights and sounds of a Louisiana Mardi Gras, featuring performances by Grammy-nominated zydeco musician Sean Ardoin, Cajun fiddler Amanda Shaw, and legendary guitarist James Burton.
Nungesser emphasized the fitting nature of Louisiana’s representation for the musical theme, stating, “Music is a part of our culture, from Mardi Gras to our festivals, to our daily lives.” He also announced the launch of a new marketing campaign, the “Year of Music,” in 2024, promising an unforgettable show for the audience.
Lafayette stands as one of seven premier sponsors of Louisiana’s float, representing convention and visitors’ bureaus and tourism boards from across the state. The roster of float riders is a diverse ensemble, including personalities like Katrice Lacour, Curtis Doucette, Jr., Kasia Trepagnier, Kennidy Elizabeth Ann Peavy, James Burton, Amanda Shaw, Jordyn Finlyn Kelley, Laura Jane Kirkpatrick, Zharia Lemar, and Destiny Wilrye.
With Lafayette and other sponsors lending their support, Louisiana’s presence at the 2024 Rose Parade® promises to be a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage and musical legacy.