Fair and Parade History

In 1883, the first Thibodaux Firemen's Fair was held, raising almost $250 for the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department, the only fire department in the parish. Since its inception, Thibodaux's Fire Department has depended upon the money raised at the Firemen's Fair for a significant portion of its annual budget. It's because of this great event that the volunteer fire department can maintain its operations across the parish.

In the early years, firemen with their equipment would parade around town as friends and relatives viewed the procession. The parade was always led by the Grand Marshal. As firemen passed the home of the Grand Marshal, they were given refreshments. After the parade, the firemen held a social with their friends and relatives. Current day Grand Marshals continue the practice of hosting a social or reception after the parade for firemen along with friends, relatives and supporters of the fire department.

The Thibodaux Firemen's Parade is not a Mardi Gras parade. The firemen do not throw doubloons or beads although some of the kids that ride on the floats may throw some items. The parade is a time for the fire department to display all of its equipment and man power to the people we serve. The parade also allows surrounding departments to show off their equipment as well. The parade will feature fire trucks and equipment, plenty of them. At times, there will be sirens wailing and horns blowing although we try to keep this minimum to control noise levels. The parade is a time for family and friends to gather along the parade route and show their appreciation to members of the department who volunteer their time to protect their lives and property in times of need.