Membership

The Knights of Sparta originated as a Bal Masque organization in 1951, staging elaborate tableaus for many years at the Municipal Auditorium. In 1981, the Knights began parading in Orleans Parish. The first several parades rolled as Mecca/Sparta, after which the parade, as well as the Bal Masque, took on the name of The Knights of Sparta.

Since Sparta gives back to the community by supporting our Prince and Princess, as well as our Torchbearers of Tomorrow and the Mystical Order of the Phoenix’s Flames of the Future, the annual Spartan Soiree Charity Gala and Silent Auction is held to benefit these kids and young adults with scholarships.

Beginning in the spring of 2025, the Knights of Sparta have planned a fun-filled year with a Crawfish Boil, Fish Fry, Champagne Bingo for the ladies, Bar Crawl, and Golf Tournament.  In the fall we will have the coronation of Sparta LXXIII and Queen of Sparta 2026.  In early 2026, scheduled events include Sparta King’s Day King Cake Party, the Sparta Bal Masque and Spartan Room after Bal Masque Party, culminating with the Knights of Sparta parade on Saturday, traveling the uptown streets of New Orleans.

For the 2026 Carnival, early-bird dues of $525, which can be paid in full or in increments of $175 (must be paid in full by August 31).  Dues beginning September 1 are $625 (must be paid in full).  

Dues include:

1) place on float

2) invitations to the Bal Masque

3) lunch the day of the parade

4) membership medallion

6) ability to purchase official Sparta merchandise

 Additional expenses:

1. costume (can be used multiple years), face mask, and head piece $65 (all of which the member will keep)
2. safety harness $20 (can be used multiple years)

 Overall cost (paying early) will be $585, not including throws.  Throw packages and “a la cart” items will be for purchase on the website when available.

 Note:  All purchases will be subject to processing fees from the Square processing site.

 We offer junior memberships for young men ages 16 to 22 with early-bird dues of $350, and $450 after August 31.  We also offer a non-riding membership for $150.   Benefits of a non-riding membership include being a part of the organization and attending the yearly events.

 Horse Riding memberships (open to all genders) are available.  If you are interested, contact our Membership Committee via email at membership@knightsofsparta.com.

 We would love to have you and your family and friends join us in our events and celebrations this year.  For membership information about the Krewe and festivities, go to our Sparta Store. 

For addition information, please contact our Membership Committee via email at membership@knightsofsparta.com.