NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Krewe of Freret has proclaimed that their 2025 parade will feature a new float honoring the legendary Soul Queen of New Orleans, Irma Thomas. The Krewe of Freret 2025 parade theme, “Time is on Our Side”, is a play on Irma’s hit song in celebration of their 11th annual parade on Saturday, Feb. 22. Freret’s newest float and theme are a tribute to Irma’s enduring legacy and her contributions to the music world.
Known for her timeless hits such as “Wish Someone Would Care,” “It’s Raining,” “Time is on My Side,” “Anyone Who Knows What Love Is (Will Understand)” and more, the world-renowned Grammy-winning Irma Thomas has been a cornerstone of New Orleans music for decades.
The new float, crafted by Kern Studios, is adorned with a crown befitting the iconic Soul Queen. It also features hit records, a giant microphone, piano keys, and a prop of Irma singing.
“I am delighted to have worked with the Krewe of Freret to craft this beautiful float,” said Irma Thomas. “It has been a joy to see it come to life and I can’t wait for my fans to see it parading down St. Charles Avenue alongside other local musical legends. This is truly a special moment for me and for the city of New Orleans.”
“The Krewe of Freret celebrates our musical legends while they are thriving,” said Krewe of Freret Captain Bobby Hjortsberg. “We are incredibly touched that Irma Thomas has agreed to be memorialized in the 2025 Freret parade. Freret is a celebration of local music – featuring floats in the likeness of icons such as Trombone Shorty, Juvenile, Big Freedia, Boyfriend, Dr. John, Louis Armstrong, Buddy Bolden, Ellis Marsalis, Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, and now Irma Thomas – making our parade a vibrant and dynamic tribute to the rich musical heritage of New Orleans.”
Custom glass beads with a wooden medallion have been crafted in the likeness of Irma Thomas by local company Copperhead Studios for the 2025 parade. Don’t miss your chance to catch Freret’s limited edition sustainable throw commemorating this new float. They are a unique and eco-friendly special tribute to the Soul Queen of New Orleans and a must-have for any parade-goer.
Join the Krewe of Freret on Feb. 22 as they unveil this spectacular new float and celebrate the incredible career of Irma Thomas. The Krewe of Freret parade will kick off at 3:30 p.m. on Napoleon Avenue.
