First Annual Thriver Second Line Parade 🎉

Saturday, October 3, 2026 · 10:30 AM – Noon Gretna, Louisiana · Levee to the River Shack

You're still here. Despite everything. 🎉 That's worth throwing a parade for! Thriver Parades are a full-on Mardi-Gras style way to celebrate resilience, life, and finding joy even in rough times.  

You'll parade with other thrivers who have also been through it, and their Krewes (friends and family members). Because you deserve to celebrate being alive, and be celebrated for what you've had to deal with. 

Laughs and fantastic memories are guaranteed, and all abilities are accommodated. You'll feel understood, encouraged and uplifted-and you're sure to create wonderful new connections along the way.

Walk it, roll it, or cheer from the sidelines. However you show up, you belong here.

What's Included

🥁 Full Parade Participation - walk, roll, or cheer, your way; revelers and cool bead enthusiasts welcomed to cheer along the route!

🎷 Live Music and Entertainment - it's the New Orleans area, after all.

✨ Sparkle Station - a skilled Glitter Artist will help you add some sparkle to your parade look! Hosted by Pixie Dust Biodegradable Glitter. Additional glitter and eco-friendly confetti will be available for purchase onsite.

🎟️ Raffles - calling all Saints fans! Enter for a chance to win items signed by Hall of Fame Quarterback Drew Brees, along with a chance to win 2 lower-bowl tickets to the Saints vs. Falcons game on Monday, October 5th! Early access raffle tickets can be found here for the Saints game, here for the signed Drew Brees helmet, and here for the signed Drew Brees jersey. 

🎤 Thriver Story Sharing - live storytelling opportunities.

📸 Photo Opportunities - and plenty of moments worth capturing!

🤝 Your People - a real community of Thrivers who get it, without needing to explain.

Rain or Inclement Weather

In the event there is heavy rain or inclement weather, we will gather at the Rivershack at 10:30am for an indoor party, because joy can still be found even in the storms!

About ADY Life Center

ADY Life Center is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping survivors, caregivers, and allies thrive through joy, celebration, and community. "ADY" stands for Ain't Dead Yet—because if you're still here, that's worth celebrating.

Can't cover the fee? Email us at info@adylifecenter.org before you register — sliding-scale options are available and no one is ever turned away for inability to pay. No explanation required.

Want to help others attend? Choose a Pay It Forward ticket — $50 or $150 — and your extra goes directly toward making space for Thrivers who need it.

ADY Life Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization · EIN: 41-3716948