Drew Brees is coming back to New Orleans in style - and this time, he’s not lacing up the cleats, he’s climbing aboard a parade float.
The legendary Saints quarterback is set to ride in the Krewe of Bacchus parade this Sunday, February 15, one of the marquee events of Carnival season and a true New Orleans spectacle. For fans of the Black and Gold, it’s a chance to see one of the city’s most beloved sports icons celebrated not just for what he did on the field, but for what he continues to mean to the community.
Brees, of course, is no stranger to Bacchus. After leading the Saints to their first Super Bowl title in 2010, he reigned as King of Bacchus - a role reserved for stars who transcend their craft. This year, the official royal duties go to actor Patrick Warburton (you might know him from Family Guy, Seinfeld, or The Emperor’s New Groove), but Brees will still be front and center with his own float - and it sounds like quite the ride.
The float features a towering statue of Brees mid-throw, capturing the form that Saints fans watched with awe for 15 seasons. There’s also an LED screen onboard that will display messages to the crowd, adding a modern, interactive twist to a tradition steeped in pageantry and local pride.
The timing couldn’t be better. Brees was recently named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 - a long-anticipated and well-deserved honor for the man who redefined quarterbacking in New Orleans.
His return to the city for the parade isn’t just a celebration of that milestone; it’s a homecoming. A chance to reconnect with the fans who cheered him through every touchdown, comeback, and playoff run.
The parade kicks off at 5:15 p.m. CT, starting at Napoleon Avenue and Tchoupitoulas Street in Uptown.
Bacchus is always a major draw, and with Brees in the lineup, expect the crowds to be even bigger. If you want a good view, plan to stake out your spot early - this one’s going to be special.
In a city where football and culture are so deeply intertwined, seeing Brees honored during one of Mardi Gras’ biggest nights feels just right. He’s more than a quarterback here - he’s part of the fabric of New Orleans.
And on Sunday, that fabric will be stitched with beads, music, and a whole lot of love for No. 9.