What is a Nereid?

In Greek Mythology a Nereid is a friendly sea nymph. In Waveland and Bay St. Louis it is a woman who belongs to the Krewe of Nereids and, thus, is admired for her obvious good taste, strong character, unparalleled beauty and charm.

What makes the Krewe of Nereids unique?

The Krewe of Nereids is the only women's krewe on the Mississippi Gulf Coast to own its den and floats. We were the third carnival organization on the Mississsippi Gulf Coast that had a complete parade.

The Krewe of Nereids' den houses their floats. Each year, under the direction of a professional float designer, the women of Nereids execute the theme designs onto individual floats. The women of Nereids perform many of the tasks required to effecuate a ball and parade each year. From sewing costumes, to making elaborate headpieces, to painting floats and sets for the ball, the women of Nereids take pride in being a working krewe.

How and when did the Krewe of Nereids begin?

The Krewe of Nereids was organized in 1966 by a group of outstanding Waveland, Mississippi, business and professional women led by Elaine Colson and Claire Bourgeois, and now includes in its membership ladies from not only Bay St. Louis - Waveland area, but from the entire coastal region and beyond. While we continue to keep the Mardi Gras tradition and heritage alive, we have gone far beyond the social organization of 1966. We provide an economic boost to the Bay - Waveland area.

When is the parade?

The parade is always held on a Sunday, nine days before Mardi Gras.

What can I expect to see in the parade?

The Nereids' Parade, comprised of more than 100 units, takes pride in featuring not only the beautiful floats of Nereids, but also many other participants in its annual parade. There are entries each year from as far away as Pensacola.

It is a fun, glamorous season in which everyone can take part and relish the splendor of Queen Doris leading her entourage in a royal procession through the cities of Waveland and Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

The crowds delight as the Marching Clubs distribute flowers and kisses to the excited throngs. Many other marching groups compliment the parade each year adding to the excitement of the moment. (We also support local high schools by inviting their bands, JROTC units and dance teams to showcase their skills each year.)

The Krewe of Eros, an all male krewe, enters three floats into Nereids' parade each year and have paraded with Nereids since 1980.

The Krewe of Hancock, comprised of floats entered by community groups, business and just friends and neighbors, has grown each year. Their floats and costumes have become more and more elaborate as they compete for the special awards presented by Nereids.

What kind of throws will I get?

Treasured keepsakes in the form of posters, cups, and doubloons are tossed from the floats to the eager crowds who chant in true Mardi Gras tradition, "Throw me something Miss." Our posters, which reflect the theme of our carnival ball, have become a collectors' item.

Do you hold a ball or tableau?

Yes, our carnival ball is recognized as one of the best produced on the Coast! Each year, our members charm the audience as they perform dance routines ranging from comedy to ballet. Perhaps, what most sets us apart from others is the anticipation of the audience as they eagerly await the entrance of our secret court.

Who is the Queen?

Nereids maintains the tradition of not revealing the identity of the Maids and the Queen of Nereids also known as Queen Doris. Learn more about Doris.

The Krewe of Nereids provide a spectacular display of ingenuity and imagination from the colorful, formal Tableau Ball, which takes place in the beautiful Mississippi Coast Coliseum.

Do you have a King?

Yes, King Nereus. Learn more about Nereus.

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