Inspired by the New Orleans Mardi Gras Krewe balls, especially the tradition of Rex, the Cotillion Club was established in 1949 by organizers as a grande social fete that celebrated the festival weekend and its participants.
In 1949, the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce along with local merchants and civic leaders, held committee meetings to research the creation of a permanent festival for the area. Shreveport was a fast-growing city and just 114 years old. The Cotillion Club’s purpose was to bring the population of the metropolitan area together to stimulate interest in the greater Shreveport area, while boosting the local economy.
Cotillion has been called one of Shreveport‘s most exciting yearly events. The Cotillion Club strives to bring about significant economic impact, and a continued interest in the Ark-La-Tex.
The first festival was held May 22 through the 26th, 1949, and its theme was “Moonlight and Magnolias“. Local civic clubs, the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, and the Shreveport Symphony, came together and shared their resources and collective talents to make the festival, and Cotillion, a success. Some of the events held were: special services in area churches, a children’s parade in downtown Shreveport, a yachting regatta, a special symphony at the Municipal Auditorium on Grand Avenue, and a Cotillion Ball that was attended by over 500 couples.
True to its crest, designed by Margaret Mary Young, the Cotillion has offered “Grace and beauty, in work and play” to our area for more than 73 years.”
The Seventy–Fourth Cotillion will celebrate the wonders and magic of the Greek isles as their Royal Majesties, Rex LXXIV and Regina, LXXIV reign over Cotillion, 2023, and set sail on their Royal Holiday in The Greek Isles – Jewels of the Aegean Sea.
Guests will be transported to these idyllic islands, set like jewels in a haven of breathtaking, natural beauty and brimming with stories, myths, and marvels. The splendid backdrop – featuring pristine beaches, the unparalleled azure of the Aegean Sea, iconic blue and white villas dotting the timeworn hillsides, bright blooming bougainvillea spilling from window boxes, and breathtaking sunsets – makes the allure of the Greek Isles impossible to ignore, and invites all five senses to enjoy. Wander from the harbor with its quaint fishing boats bobbing on shimmering shores as their owners sell their daily catch on the piers. Roam quaint cobblestone alleyways to the Chora, the heart of the aisle. Explore the tavernas vibrating with the sounds of lively music, dancers, and laughter. Here you can experience the full embrace of Greek charm, calling you to join in the celebration with a joyful shout of “Opa !”
If You Attend…
Seventy-fourth Annual Cotillion
Who: The Cotillion Club
When: Friday, April 14th, 2023, at 8:30 pm
Where: Shreveport’s historic Municipal Auditorium
Attire: Formal floor-length ball gowns for ladies and formal attire for gentlemen
Admission: Members only. For information about becoming a member, email Mrs. William P Lea (Lauren), Membership Chairman: cotillionmembership1@gmail.com
Food: The Royal Banquet, catered by Upper Crust of Haynesville, will be held immediately following the presentation. A cash bar will be available.
Band: Limelight from Dallas, Texas
Photography by Brian Lewis Photography
Logo Artwork by Jessica O’Neill
Text Design by Susan Abney