54th Annual Greasing of the Poles: A Mardi Gras Tradition

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans will host the 54th annual Greasing of the Poles, at Friday, February 9th. The theme for 2024 is “The R’evolution of Greasing,” which is a celebration of the long-standing and recently relaunched Restaurant R’evolution.

The annual event was first established in 1968 where The Royal Sonesta New Orleans decided to grease its support poles as a practical means to prevent overzealous Mardi Gras revelers from shimmying up to the balcony.

Photo byNEW ORLEANS LOCAL

This year’s lineup includes Louisiana native and reality TV superstar Trishelle Cannatella (Real World Las Vegas and Traitors); TikTok F&B trendsetter Triece Tabb, beloved 610 Stomper, Dan “Maude” Sullivan, and social media influencer Emily Smith.

Local New Orleanian, renowned actor, author and business owner Bryan Batt will serve as the master of ceremonies as contestants compete for the sought-after title of 2024 Greasing Champion. Batt has appeared in numerous films and television series including award winning series, Mad Men.

BRYAN BATT AT THE 53RD ANNUAL GREASING OF THE POLESPhoto byAUDACY.COM

Serving on the judge’s panel for this year’s festivities will be owner and executive chef of Restaurant R’evolution, Chef John Folse; the Honorable Steve Bordner; Saints super fan Whistle Monsta, aka Leroy Mitchell; and Moët Hennessy USA Director of Trade Advocacy Liz Batsche. Also included in this year’s festivities is the Krewe of Zulu, Krewe of NOMTOC and Queen Cherise of the Mardi Gras Indians.

There will be performances by Leroy Jones and the Original Hurricane Brass Band, The New Orleans Pussyfooters and 610 Stompers. The Merry Antoinettes will make a special appearance, as well as the 2023 Greasing of the Poles Champion, Brooke Laizer, and 2022 champion Greg Kata.

Photo byNOLA.COM

In celebration of this cherished event, the hotel’s balconies will be dressed with a custom installation by Badass Balloon Co. and returning to cheers to this year’s annual event is the beloved global champagne house of Moët & Chandon.

The 2024 “Greasing of the Poles” will start on Friday, February 9th at 10 am and will be streamed on WGNO.com.