🎺 Second Lines & Soul: A New Orleans Celebration Like No Other

In New Orleans, we don’t just celebrate — we parade. And when it comes to weddings, anniversaries, or any excuse to gather and groove, nothing says “let’s make this unforgettable” like a second line.

It’s not just a walk down the street. It’s a moving, living, brass-blaring expression of joy, community, and tradition. At The Howlin’ Wolf, we’ve seen firsthand how a second line can transform an event — turning a moment into a memory and a crowd into a celebration.

🎷 What Is a Second Line Parade?

The second line is a uniquely New Orleans tradition with roots in both West African circle dances and the city’s African American funeral processions. The “first line” was the main event — often a brass band leading a funeral, wedding, or social club parade. The “second line” is everyone else — friends, family, neighbors, and anyone else who jumps in to dance, clap, wave handkerchiefs, and follow the music.

In modern celebrations, second lines are often part of wedding processions, birthday parties, Mardi Gras balls, and even corporate events. It’s not just a performance — it’s participation.

💍 Why Second Lines Belong at Your Wedding

Forget the limos. Forget the slow walk down the aisle. If you really want to feel the moment, go second line style. It’s become a rite of passage for New Orleans couples: exiting your ceremony or reception with a brass band blaring, guests dancing behind you in a sea of umbrellas, handkerchiefs, and big easy joy.

At The Howlin’ Wolf, we’ve hosted dozens of weddings where the second line kicks off right outside our doors — through the Warehouse District and into the streets, brass in tow. It's an incredible way to infuse your wedding with authentic New Orleans culture, rhythm, and energy.

🎭 The Cultural Heartbeat of a City

Second lines aren’t just fun — they’re deeply rooted in community. Originating from African American social aid and pleasure clubs in the 19th and early 20th centuries, second lines were a way to honor, celebrate, and uplift. Music was protest, pride, and joy all at once.

Even today, the second line represents liberation through movement — a public reclaiming of space, identity, and culture. It’s why no two second lines are the same. They’re improvised, interactive, and full of local flavor.

🐺 How The Howlin’ Wolf Helps You Second Line Right

Want to add a second line to your wedding, party, or private event? We’ve got you.

• Brass Band Booking – We work with top-tier local bands who know how to bring the fire.

• Parade Permits & Logistics – Yes, second lines need permits. We’ll handle the details so you don’t have to.

• Umbrellas, Handkerchiefs & Throws – Custom items available to match your event colors or theme.

• Start and Finish at The Wolf – Whether you kick it off from our front doors or end the night howling back here, we’re your home base.

🎉 One Last Note (In Brass)

You don’t need an excuse to second line. In New Orleans, any celebration can be a parade — and at The Howlin’ Wolf, we make sure yours marches to a beat all its own.

Ready to second line into your next celebration?👉 Talk to the Wolf and let’s make it happen.