Mardi Gras season is officially in full swing in New Orleans. Although the real Mardi Gras extends far beyond the Tulane University bubble, some Tulanians will spend most of the week on Broadway Street. If you’re going to stay Uptown, here are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing fraternity wristbands.
A fraternity wristband is a bracelet that the fraternities sell each year before Mardi Gras. A wristband purchase includes access to the house, drinks and usually transportation to and from the parade route. Prices and value vary, so knowing what you’re paying for is important.
One of the most popular Mardi Gras houses is Sigma Chi, which in past years has featured large outdoor setups, elaborate decorations and guest DJs, including Noizu. Their events typically draw large crowds, leading to long lines during peak hours. If you go during a popular time, expect a high wait time and a rude, underpaid security guard at the front door.
However, it is worth noting that Sigma Chi is serving sanctions and can only host events at third party venues, not the frat house. Either way, if Sigma Chi puts on a production like they have every other year, I would recommend getting a wristband, even though they are typically on the pricier side.
Other fraternities that typically attract steady attendance during Mardi Gras include Delta Tau Delta, Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Zeta Beta Tau. Delta Tau Delta’s house on the corner of Broadway and Burthe Street often surprises first-time visitors with its large indoor space once, which makes it nicer to stay a while without feeling packed like sardines. If the weather stays cold, Delta Tau Delta’s indoor space is also a good spot for staying warm.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon, while slightly farther from the main cluster of houses, usually keeps consistent energy throughout the day and into the evening, making it a place people settle for a couple hours rather than just passing through. However, for $35 tickets this year are on the pricier side, so only buy this band if you know that the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house is your vibe.
Zeta Beta Tau’s biggest advantage is location. Located near The Boot and in the middle of the Broadway circuit, it’s an easy stop between houses. Unfortunately, its central location also makes it likely to get shut down by TUPD earlier than other houses. The positives for Zeta Beta Tau include their balconies, indoor lighting, open layout, packed crowds and good music. Plus, it’s a great space for photos. For $20, I’d say Zeta Beta Tau is a safe band to buy.
A frat I would not suggest purchasing from is Zeta Psi. They have historically drawn large lines and, in my experience, have been shut down more often than other houses. The frat also has inconsistent entry policies, sometimes letting one person in over another that has been waiting for a while longer. As with any event, timing and patience can significantly affect your experience. However, their prices match Sigma Alpha Epsilon for $35, making them the two most expensive houses, so I would suggest getting either Zeta Psi or Sigma Alpha Epsilon, not both.
828 tends to attract a particular scene of partiers, which means your experience will depend almost entirely on whether that’s your vibe. For $25, their pricing falls in the middle of the spectrum. If you prefer alternative activities over sipping, 828 is a wristband you should definitely get.
Alpha Epsilon Pi was my best band purchase last year for daytime events. Pricing this year is only $10, making it the cheapest house. But don’t be fooled by its affordability, Alpha Epsilon Pi is a great time. Last year they were the most underrated house during Mardi Gras; the music, setup, canned drinks and packed day party space was amazing.
Kappa Alpha often draws more of a Southern, porch-hang crowd during the day. Plus, their bands are among the most affordable, selling between $10 and $15.
Sigma Epsilon and Kappa Sigma can be good options if you’re going out with a group and want somewhere that feels manageable and less overwhelming. The negative for Kappa Sigma is the distance from the main grouping of houses. Walking from Kappa Sigma to Sigma Alpha Epsilon feels like miles.
Phi Gamma Delta feels like more of a relationship fraternity, and the crowd reflects that. It’s fun when these fraternities do a group event together during Mardi Gras, but on their own, these frats fall in the middle for me.
As always, Mardi Gras looks different for everyone but knowing what to expect can help partygoers plan their week more efficiently, whether they are hopping between houses or hanging out for a longer visit.