About Us
The name Oshun originates from African history and mythology. Oshun was an African queen and the consort of King Shango—both of whom are honored and recognized within the organization. In Yoruba tradition, Oshun is revered as the goddess of wealth, prosperity, beauty, and all things desirable. She is celebrated for her elegance, sensuality, and deep capacity for love. Her counterpart, King Shango, is known for his unmatched strength, courage, and his association with justice. Shango symbolizes masculinity, virility, and power.
In 1996, Ann Clark founded the Krewe of Oshun with a visionary purpose: to create a Carnival organization that would offer individuals of ordinary means an opportunity to participate in Mardi Gras—a celebration that had long been dominated by the wealthy elite. That same year, the Krewe of Oshun was officially granted a carnival permit and secured the coveted first Friday night slot of the Mardi Gras parade season.
Originally, the krewe paraded along the Mid-City route. However, in 1998, the parade was rerouted to the iconic St. Charles Avenue route. Since its founding, the Krewe of Oshun has grown steadily year after year.
In 2025, a new chapter began for the organization when Gian Durand was named Krewe Captain. With a commitment to honoring the krewe’s founding vision while embracing fresh ideas and continued growth, Captain Durand brings dynamic leadership and a renewed energy to the legacy of Oshun.
The History and Legacy of Oshun
countdown to oshun parade day
Upcoming Events
Oshun Kids & Founding Families at City PuttNov 22, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PMNew Orleans, 33 Dreyfous Dr, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
Bowl with the Krewe of OshunDec 21, 2025, 4:30 PM – 7:00 PMNew Orleans, 3016 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
Krewe of Oshun ParadeFeb 06, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PMLocation is TBD
PARADE ROUTE
The Krewe of Oshun parade will begin at the intersection of Napoleon Avenue and Magazine Street in New Orleans.
From there, the parade will proceed on Napoleon Avenue then turn right on St. Charles Avenue.
The parade will continue along St. Charles Avenue until it reaches Canal Street.
At Canal Street, the krewe will make a right turn, proceeding down Canal until reaching Tchoupitoulas Street, where it will turn right once more and disband at the intersection of Tchoupitoulas Street and Poydras Street.
