NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The Royal Sonesta New Orleans will host its annual signature event, The Greasing of the Poles, at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 28, with the 2025 theme “Grease Ya Later Alligator,” celebrating The Royal Sonesta New Orleans’ property mascot – The Commodore and Louisiana’s most famous reptile.
The 55th annual event began as a practical means of preventing overzealous revelers from climbing the hotel’s support poles. Over the years, it has transformed into a celebrity-studded, music-filled spectacle that marks the official kickoff to Mardi Gras weekend.
New Orleans songbird Robin Barnes will serve as master of ceremonies as Greasing contestants compete for the sought-after title of 2025 Greasing Champion.
This year’s contestant lineup includes musician and viral music star, HaSizzle – The King of Bounce; Lauren Haydel, owner of the beloved Fleurty Girl Boutique; Chelsea Brasted, respected journalist and co-author of Axios New Orleans; and social media personality known for her food and beverage content, Evelyn Bories, aka @evie_eats.
Serving on the judge’s panel for this year’s festivities will be proud Louisianian, reality TV alum and passionate lover of all things New Orleans, Kelsey Anderson; former general manager of The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Al Groos; recognized reality TV star, major network TV host and affectionately called ‘The Queen of New Orleans’, Tamica Lee; and Shirin Braden, director of Brand Activation and Experiences for Moët Hennessy.
Also included in this year’s festivities are the 610 Stompers, New Orleans’ favorite all-male dance troupe; The Merry Antoinettes; the Krewe of Zulu; Krewe of NOMTOC; and Mardi Gras Indian Queen Cherise. Attendees will also enjoy performances from Robin Barnes and HaSizzle, and Leroy Jones and the Original Hurricane Brass Band.
In celebration of this cherished event, the hotel’s balconies will be adorned with a custom installation by Sparkle and Swag, and returning to toast this year’s annual event is the beloved global champagne house, Moët Hennessy.
WHEN: The 55th annual Greasing of the Poles will be held on Friday, Feb. 28, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, located at 300 Bourbon St., and via Facebook live-stream @RoyalSonestaNO.
