with Krewe of Krampus and Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc

As Yule comes to an end and Carnival begins, the Krewe of Krampus which is the last parade of the year transfers the celebration spirit over to Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc which is the first parade of the Mardi Gras season. This ceremonial tradition gathers on January 5th and at the stroke of midnight when Twelfth Night begins the light is passed between these Krewe Captains ushering in Carnival.

On January 5th both Krewes hold separate events. As the evening comes to a close, Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc makes their way over to the Krewe of Krampus event where they are welcomed with great pageantry. It is at the stroke of midnight that the light is passed from the Captain of Krampus from his glowing lump of coal to the celebratory candle held by the Captains of Jeanne d’Arc.

After this formal ritual concludes the cutting and sharing of a king cake between Krewes initiates the celebration that Carnival has just begun.