The Krewe of UNO will roll virtually in 2021 in keeping with the City of New Orleans coronavirus restrictions on Mardi Gras parades.

This year’s event is a shoebox float parade that will stream live on Facebook with host commentary and featured cameo spots from Mardi Gras expert Arthur Hardy, WDSU-TV chief meteorologist Margaret Orr and dance groups.

“We’ll be doing our best Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade imitation,” said LeeAnne Sipe, director for the Office of Student Involvement and Leadership, who helped to organize the event.

Sipe will co-host the event with Mike Esordi, UNO’s associate director for web strategy.

The theme of the parade is “Oh, the Places You Can’t Go!”

Sipe and Reagan Laiche, director of operations in the Office of Student Affairs, brainstormed for ideas to celebrate Mardi Gras after New Orleans city officials prohibited traditional street parades.

“We couldn’t imagine missing an opportunity to celebrate Carnival season with the campus community,” Sipe said. “Initially we were going to have displays in the quad with a physically distant king cake party, but shifts in the pandemic moved us to a virtual space to ensure everyone’s safety.”

The miniature float parade will feature colorfully decorated shoeboxes created by students, UNO campus organizations and people from the community.

“Shifting to Facebook Live has extended our reach and made it easier for many folks to participate,” Sipe said. “We’re excited to bring our fun-loving and goofy Krewe of UNO spirit to a new space!”

The parade will air on UNO’s Facebook page on Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 1 p.m.