Mardi Gras season includes king cakes, beads and parties, but one unforgettable part is the parades. The Krewe of Artemis is the first and only all-female parade in Baton Rouge.
Founded in 2001 by Krewe captain Joanne Harvey, the vision for the organization is to bring the tradition and spirit of Mardi Gras to Baton Rouge with an added feminine twist. Harvey’s husband is the president of the Krewe of Orion.
“She wanted to start an all-ladies organization so that they could enjoy the camaraderie and give back to the community through a women’s vision,” said Marie Esquivel, Harvey’s assistant.
The mythological goddess Artemis was chosen as the name of the group because the goddess is known for being the protector of children. The Baton Rouge organization is very focused on making sure its parade is family focused.
“We are truly a family oriented parade. … Baton Rouge offers a family-type atmosphere at the parades, and Baton Rouge did not have New Orleans-type parades 15 years ago when Artemis was started,” Esquivel said.
Krewe of Artemis stays prominent by being a New Orleans-style parade without the hassle of leaving Baton Rouge.
“We have a true New Orleans-style parade with floats that use tractors like New Orleans parades,” Esquivel said.
The organization also makes sure to improve the parade every year, with new themes and new throws.
“This year, one of our new throws is a light up heart that says ‘I love Artemis’. Our theme is ‘Come Rock ‘N Roll with Artemis.’ Every float has something to do with rock,” Esquivel said.
Krewe of Artemis premiered its parade on Feb. 21 this year. The parade included brightly colored floats, metallic costumes and plenty of beads thrown down the streets of downtown Baton Rouge.
“We have a true New Orleans style parade with floats that use tractors like New Orleans parades.”