Going Out - New Orleans

If you don't have plans this Labor Day weekend, be sure to head to one of the most celebrated events of the summer, Southern Decadence. Now in its 40th year, this fabulous celebration in New Orleans is one of the largest circuit parties in the country.

From August 31 through September 5, the Big Easy will be transformed into a non-stop party, headlined once again by the ever-popular Deborah Cox and hosted by Rhea Litre and Billy Francesca. Appearances by world-renowned DJ's: Abel, Lydia Prim, Dawna Montel, Rodriguez and Mike Bryant will also make for an unforgettable event.

The history of Southern Decadence is quite surprising. In 1972, a group of friends living near the French Quarter decided to throw a going away party for another friend. The group decided to theme the party and call it the "Southern Decadence Party: Come As Your Favorite Southern Decadent."

Guests were required to dress in costume as their favorite southern character. The following year, a parade was added, much similar to a bar crawl, and in 1974, a grand marshal was appointed to oversee the soiree. The event grew exponentially in the years following, and today, Southern Decadence attracts more than 110,000 participants and generates nearly $125 million in revenue for the city, making it among the top five events in New Orleans.

The crown jewel of Southern Decadence will be Sunday's parade, which rivals pride parades in some of the world's largest cities. This year's parade features Grand Marshals Tiffany Alexander and Misael Rubio. The duo had the honor of declaring the theme: "What Happens In New Orleans Stays in New Orleans." Attendees are encouraged to wear clothing in the shades of fuchsia, black and silver, this year's chosen color scheme.

While in New Orleans, be sure to stop by, the Hit Parade, the city's largest gay and lesbian gift and clothing store. The unique one-stop shop is located at the corner of Bourbon and St. Ann Streets, directly across the street from the Bourbon Pub / Parade, the largest nightclub in the city.

The Crescent city boasts nearly two-dozen LGBT bars and nightclubs, so guests will surely be able to find a venue of their liking. Most bars are situated around the French Quarter, which makes barhopping a breeze and quite safe.

The NO/AIDS Task Force will set up an information booth, which will provide visitors with useful information, maps and details about the event and the city itself.