The Mystic Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette

The Mystic Krewe of Apollo was founded in New Orleans in 1969 to foster brotherhood, unity and equality within our community. The main function was to stage an annual Bal Masque during the Mardi Gras season.

In 1976. Apollo became a unique organization with the introduction of a sister krewe, Apollo de Lafayette. Founded and organized by Mr. Roland Dobson, the organization staged its first Bal Masque in 1977, “The Shady Ladies Ball.”

In keeping with our traditions, Apollo de Lafayette has staged the following annual bal masques:

Through its nearly five decades of existence, the Mystic Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette has grown in membership and activities. As of this date, the Krewe has a membership of one hundred men. Each year, the Krewe holds a “rush” party to invite interested gay men into membership. The Krewe holds monthly meetings and yearly events, such as the Kickoff Party and the Mr. and Miss Apollo Pageant and participates/donates to several community charitable activities, such as, The Best Dressed Ball, Red Ribbon Day, Friends United, Red Ribbon Bal , Habitat for Humanity, Pink Party, The Children’s Shelter, Halloween New Orleans, Festivals Acadiens et Creoles, Festival International de Louisiane, Alzheimer’s Association and Acadiana Cares.

The forty-eight coronation balls to date have inducted many members into royalty status. This regal bond has resulted in the formation of a unique group within our Krewe, The Royalty Club.

Apollo’s history has established its reputation of splendor, creativeness and gaiety in Lafayette. This reputation has also been sustained in other cities with the formation of associate krewes. We are honored to congratulate Apollo Baton Rouge, Apollo Birmingham, Apollo New Orleans, and Apollo Alexandria.

The Mystic Krewe of Apollo de Lafayette continues tradition this year as a member of the Greater Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association. This alliance with the community will strengthen the Mardi Gras season in the city of Lafayette. We thank this association for their support of the Krewe of Apollo.