It’s time to start getting those ice chests mounted on the red wagons, the seats bolted to the top of the ladders and those folding chairs dusted off. That’s right, it’s parade prep time.
I was going through some old pictures on my computer and found some parade prep pics I’d like to share. Parade goers know that no parade is complete without the Budweiser Clydesdales. The eight-horse teams pulling the big red beer wagon are an awesome sight for kids. The one-ton beasts with dinner plate-sized hooves loom over the crowd and definitely made an impression on me as a young parade goer.
I caught them as they prepared for a Slidell parade, the Krewe of Perseus. I was lucky enough to be introduced to the team: Scott, Bud, Smokey, Ace, Luke, Duke, Mick and Archie, along with their human handlers and canine mascot, Doc the dalmatian.
First step, get the horses out of their luxurious travel trailers. Believe me, these horses travel in style. I think there’s a guy who cleans up if they poop while the trailers are on the interstate.
Next, a little grooming.
Time to put the harness on. It’s a three-man job. The things weigh over 100 pounds.
After the horses get hitched together and to the wagon, Doc, the canine member of the team, takes his place next to the driver.
A driver’s-eye view of the team. From closest to the wagon to the front of the hitch: Scott and Bud; Smokey and Ace; Luke and Duke; Mick and Archie.
And my favorite shot, this one as the team arrives for the night parade of the Krewe of Olympia in Covington. Mick and Archie are in the lead.
That’s how the Budweiser Clydesdales prepare for a parade. What’s your story?
Those are some great shots! Those horses are magnificent! Since this will be my 4th Mardi Gras as a resident, I don’t know if I have a parade prep. I do know where I will be for each parade (super krewes at the end, smaller krewes just of Louisiana.) I know what food and drink I wish to consume. Ready for them to roll!!
On Scott and Bud and Smokey and Ace and Luke and Duke and Mick and Archie! It’s like Santa’s reindeer!
Love this post, and agree with you–that last pic is my favorite too!
Prep? I get my ice-chest on wheels together with my Mardi Gras CDs, koozies-on-a-string (need my hands free to catch beads), and my blue wig (see upcoming post). This year, will be adding seated ladder for Sun. Throw in some homemade jambalaya and some Popeyes chicken, and maybe a daiquiri, and I think that’s all my prep.
Love your Clydesdale photos, I have a new Mardi Gras blog with a article on the fab Clydesdales, I’d like to use your photos.
Thanks and Happy Mardi Gras!
David Eidler
New Orleans, LA
Hi All,
I’ve heard that a team of these amazing animals are housed at a local stable in Folsum, LA. Does anyone know if this is true?
I’d love to take my granddaughter to see them when she comes on vacation in April.
thanks for your help…….Patt (Hammond, LA)