NEW ORLEANS (press release) – While restrictions during the COVID pandemic are gone, the house float phenomenon that sprung up as a response to carnival parades being canceled during the pandemic remains alive thanks to Stronghold Studios, an art and fabrication studio forging ahead with the cherished house float tradition for Mardi Gras 2025.
Following the dissolution of the Krewe of House Floats, Stronghold Studios has become the leading producer of House floats and has taken the reins to ensure this vibrant celebration continues to grow and flourish.
“The house float tradition is more than decoration—it’s about community, creativity, and keeping the spirit of Mardi Gras alive,” said Coco Darrow, founder of Stronghold Studios. “We’re thrilled to carry this legacy forward while offering new ways for people to celebrate, from house floats to event activations and float flowers.”
The house float phenomenon began in 2020, when Mardi Gras parades were canceled due to the pandemic. Determined not to let the season pass quietly, New Orleanians transformed their homes into elaborate floats, bringing the festive spirit to neighborhoods citywide. What started as a creative solution has become a lasting Carnival tradition, standing as testimony to the resiliency and spirit of New Orleans.
For 2025, there is a new House Float Map, an interactive map showcasing all registered house floats across New Orleans. Homes can be registered on the Map Request Form here. at www.strongholdstudios.com. Participants are encouraged to adopt a Super Bowl House Float theme.
All Stronghold Studios artwork is custom-made in their Mid-City studio by some of the city’s most talented artists. Due to overwhelming demand, float flower sales are back with new options in hundreds of colors, sizes, and styles.
In 2024, Stronghold Studios designed over fifty house floats and hosted hundreds of visitors during its float flower sales and they expect to do even more in 2025.
House float installations will begin in the first week of January 2025 and last through the end of the Mardi Gras season.
Stronghold Studios also creates custom artwork for music festivals, corporate events, private celebrations, and Super Bowl activites. As the hub of the art department for Jazz Fest, Stronghold Studios have a strong track record for using art to reflect the vibrant culture of New Orleans. The Stronghold Studios team handles everything from design to installation.
