First Timer Tips

We’ve all been there, in fact in February of 2001 we were all there for Muses First Time. If this is your first year riding in the Krewe of Muses, get ready for the experience of a lifetime. It has been called the most amazing ego trip you can imagine, like being a rock star for a night. We learned a lot during our first rides, all of us. We wanted to pass along some of that to you. But for the true experience of riding down St. Charles Avenue celebrating Mardi Gras with thousands screaming to you…just wait.

Dress

  • Wear comfortable shoes with lots of support, like athletic shoes. You would be surprised how much your feet can hurt from standing and you need to be able to keep your balance and climb ladders. (And, your feet aren’t visible from the ground!)
  • Some years many Muses purchased long sleeved, flesh-colored body suits or tops and bottoms. Make sure you are able to easily use the bathroom. Consider a Velcro closure or just cutting a slit. Each year, the krewe will inform you before the parade of the colors you are permitted to wear under your costume.

Throws

  • Make it easy on yourself, order at least the Platinum package and it will be loaded for you to your spot on the float. You don’t have to do anything.
  • If you chose to purchase additional throws purchase them from Beads by the Dozen and get the Muse discount.
  • Parade goers really want Muse throws. But if you insist on purchasing beads elsewhere you must load them onto the float yourself and unpack them and put any cardboard boxes in the dumpster outside of the den. Be certain to watch the den hours for loading. You will not be allowed in a minute early or a minute late.
  • Check out your spot in advance!
  • Add rubber coated hooks to hold more throws. You may do this at float viewing or at pre-loading. Do not use nails as they are dangerous, illegal and will be pulled out before we ride!
  • Some members also add painter’s aprons and staple them along the inside of the float.
  • Add a cup holder for extra luxury!
  • Add a plastic bucket to hold special throws.
  • Do not unpack your beads until we are actually rolling to line-up. They tend to fall of the hooks when the floats are moved out of the den.
  • Do not hang your beads outside of the float! It covers the artwork.
  • Bring a flashlight with you to bead loading at night…it can be dark in the den.
  • Have a friend meet you at the end of the route in case you have left over throws you want to keep. You do not want to bring them to the party.
  • Long beads and beads with medallions tend to tangle easily. Do not pre-hang them. Pull them out of the bag and throw them.
  • Practice your throwing skills before the parade. Attempting overhand throws often lands beads under the float. Be aware that children may be going after the beads and make sure to throw to them directly.
  • Do not throw beads or cups at people…throw to them. We want everyone to enjoy the parade without injury.

Other suggestions

  • If at all possible…do not bring a purse. Once you start rolling you only have to try to keep up with it.
  • Floats are crowded when loaded full. Plan to be somewhat crowded in the beginning of the parade. Space is limited!
  • Beware of bead hooks and nails behind you! We try to remove them all but be on the look-out anyway.
  • Be proactive…plan what you are drinking with your float mates or bring one drink.
  • Light bulbs are very hot…remember it IS a night parade. Do not touch them.
  • Light bulbs are fragile. Do not grab them. They will break.
  • When you first get on the float look at the space around you and make yourself aware of possible hazards such as nails or broken glass. Alert your co-riders to do the same.
  • If you are riding on top please be aware that there may be low hanging limbs from trees. Pay attention!

The ultimate parade survival kit:

  • Scissors - to trim your mask
  • Band-aids - just in case
  • White cotton gloves - beads are filthy
  • Hand-wipes or wet ones - beads are filthy!
  • Flashlight - we parade at night!
  • Garbage bags - there is more trash at your feet then you realize
  • Toilet paper - someone always drops it in something wet
  • Beverages! - Live it up!

Plus:

  • Be sure to eat at the pre-party and don’t get drunk – there’s still a long night ahead. You will not be allowed on the float and you will be so devastated the next day…some have been in the past.