The History of Spring Fiesta
Spring Fiesta, whose crowning glory is loyalty to the best traditions of New Orleans...
The New Orleans Spring Fiesta Association began with the idea that New Orleans, with its many natural attractions - its historic Vieux Carré and the Garden District, could readily become a Mecca for the many visitors who come to the South during the early spring. The wonderful success of the Natchez Pilgrimage proved that people are extremely interested in the cultural heritage of the South and in seeing beautiful homes and rare gardens. The thousands who visited those alluring centers of charm were potential visitors to New Orleans if only the advantage of the city could be brought to their attention.
The Beginning
The formal organization of Spring Fiesta took place over 80 years ago in 1937 in the historic Spanish home of Mrs. Helen Pitkin Schertz. Here, within view of the romantic Bayou St. John, an early entrance to New Orleans, a group of New Orleanians made plans for an annual event, to be known as the New Orleans Spring Fiesta, whose crowning glory was loyalty to the best traditions of New Orleans.
The group outlined a program including concerts, an opera performance, artists' exhibits, a brilliant pageant, garden tours, and historic home tours where the hosts and hostesses receiving guests would wear authentic costumes, emphasizing the historic era of each home.
The purpose, in addition to preserving and celebrating New Orleans' cultural heritage, was also dedicated to educating visitors and citizens alike regarding that heritage.