So You Want a Second Line Parade?

Laura Kuhn
Aug 15
2 min read

A Step-by-Step Guide to Adding

This Iconic NOLA Tradition to Your Event

Few things capture the spirit of New Orleans like a second line parade. It’s joyful. It’s soulful. It’s loud. And it turns any celebration into a full-blown street party. Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday, or just feel like dancing in the streets—here’s how to make it happen.

🎺 What Is a Second Line?

Born from the jazz funeral tradition, a second line features a brass band (the “first line”) leading a joyful procession of dancers, friends, and onlookers (the “second line”) through the streets. It’s all about community, celebration, and movement—and it’s 100% New Orleans.

📝 Step 1: Secure a Permit

Yes, it’s a parade, so it needs to be official. You’ll need:

A parade permit from the City of New Orleans (filed 15–30 days in advance)
Coordination with NOPD for traffic control
A defined route—often a short stroll from your venue through the surrounding neighborhood

Bonus: If you're hosting at The Howlin’ Wolf or The Den, we’ll help you navigate this step with our preferred vendors and permit partners.

🎷 Step 2: Book Your Brass Band

No second line is complete without that beat. We recommend:

Local legends like Rebirth Brass Band (if you can get them!)
Funky up-and-comers for high-energy, danceable sets
Specialty bands for themed or custom parades

Want help? We’ve got a contact list that’ll make your celebration sound just right.

💃 Step 3: Set the Look

Custom parasols, handkerchiefs, and even branded fans make your parade pop. You can:

Hand out embroidered hankies for guests to wave
Design custom umbrellas for the couple or guest of honor
Add a color theme to tie the whole thing together

🥁 Step 4: Pick the Moment

Here’s when a second line hits best:

At the end of a wedding ceremony or reception
After a big birthday toast
To lead guests from The Den to The Main Stage
As a grand entrance into your event

If it’s a surprise? Even better.

🎉 Step 5: Add Your Own Twist

New Orleans loves tradition—but we also love breaking it.

Add a burlesque performer to lead the way
Hand out custom shots before stepping off
Have a food truck waiting at the final stop
End with a toast and a beignet

Ready to Roll?

We make second lines easy. From permit guidance to brass band booking, we’ll help you turn your party into a parade.

👉 Contact us to bring your second line to life.