Second Lines – neighborhood celebrations in the form of brass band parades – are considered a “quintessential New Orleans art form,” 

Associations known as Social Aid or Pleasure Clubs and Benevolent Societies were created by and for African-Americans following the Civil War to provide support, education and aid to their members. These clubs hosted parties and parades to celebrate their community, invite new members, and honor each other when they died, traditions known as jazz funerals and second lines. As segregation faded, the purpose of these clubs changed, but their traditions and celebrations, especially second lines – exciting walking parades that snake through the neighborhoods, continue today. 

Second Lines are ongoing testaments to the strength & vibrancy of communities coming together. 

All of this transpired in the home of Congo Square, the birthplace of Jazz – where African, Caribbean, & Latin rhythms drove melodies and essential expression. These musical influences created an epicenter for what would become American music, and were transformed literally and figuratively when they moved, through marching instrumentation of brass and drums.

The “main line” of these parades is made up of guests of honor, like club members, the bride and groom, or the casket and family in a funeral, and of course, the band! As these walking parades snake through neighborhoods, people are encouraged and invited to join in, creating “the second line” for which they are named. These revelers walk or dance, shuffle & strut, all while twirling parasols & waving handkerchiefs. It is an informal gathering of people taking to the streets to connect with each other, celebrate or mourn — to be seen and heard.