Knights of Sparta

I had a lot of fun at this parade. I’m not normally one to do large crowds, but where I was at, it was easy to find a spot that didn’t have too large of a crowd (2 – 3 people deep). There were some awesome marching bands, dance groups and floats with bands on them. There are plenty of floats with riders dressed up and throwing things. The floats were really nice. I have not seen this parade before that I know of, and it was a nice break. It is definitely not a large parade but it is adequate in length.
There is great fun to be had by everyone.

I had a lot of fun at this parade. There were some really good brass bands here. Not the mediocre ones in the french quarter either.
I got some good throws and hung out with some of my friends. I actually broke down bought a goofy hat and a candy apple.
Great fun for everyone at this parade.

Here’s another one of those «starter» parades that kind of get you ready for the bigger parades. It’s nice, but short and really not all that memorable. I had a good time watching it, but I probably wouldn’t go out of my way to see it, as I might for some other Krewes.

I like Sparta because it has an old line feel despite being formed just in the latter half of the 20^th century (that would be 1951). They have flambeaux which is great. And I love that they keep one mule drawn float with the old wagon wheels.
The parade is not the longest (only 18 floats in 2012) but the throws were decent and it’s a good start up on first weekend.

Night parades have a different feeling about them. I was raised on day parades so the world of night parades is very new for me. This weekend was about cutting my teeth, so to speak.
Before we even start, I’ll give you a minute to stand up, claw at your chest, and scream that memorable movie line in slow-​mo. We’ve all been there. No shame. Done? Good.
Coming off the delightful surprise of Pontchartrain, Sparta was pretty decent. I mean, it didn’t suck. Okay, there is only one reason this parade gets 4 stars instead of 3: the Get A Life Marching Band from Portland, Oregon. On their website, the GALMB says they’ll be the ones having more fun than everyone else. True facts. Just watching this group was a blast. Good call, booking these folks, Sparta! They are a good fit for your parade.
The 2011 theme (I Write the Songs) meant I got to scream for Elvis (swoon!), Kiss (erm), and the Beach Boys (EEEEEEEEEEE!!!) as the parade went rushing past. Of the parades this weekend, I think Sparta has the slickest floats. Their design is pretty classy. I also approved of the musical choices most of the riders made. (Although, I must pick this bone: Sloop John B was not the best song the Beach Boys did. Not by a long freaking shot.)
The whole parade moved pretty fast which leads me straight to my beer rec…
Recommended Beer: Abita Turbodog. Zoom zoom.