54th Annual Greasing of the Poles

Enjoy the annual Greasing of the Poles brought to you by the Royal Sonesta Hotel in the French Quarter. Greasing of the Poles is considered by many to be the French Quarter’s official kickoff to Mardi Gras weekend. Royal Sonesta New Orleans originated the ritual of greasing the building’s support poles as a practical means to deter overzealous revelers from shimmying up to the coveted balcony space. Over half a century later, the practice has evolved into a star-studded and music-filled event, even spawning its own international fan club from Switzerland.