Upcoming Shows
The sights and sounds of a defining local cultural practice, second line parades, come alive in “Dancing in the Streets: Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs of New Orleans,” on view at The Historic New Orleans Collection from February 25 to June 13, 2021.
Assembled in collaboration with more than 30 community partners and club members, the exhibition offers an intimate look at New Orleans street parades while also providing historical context of the tradition. Black mutual aid societies were founded in the 19th century to support African Americans and Afro-Creoles at a time when they were denied many social services, and second line parades are one of their most enduring legacies. Full of color, music, footwork, friends and neighbors, second line parades provide a weekly physical and symbolic gathering place for Black history and expression.