Krewe of Olympus - Texas, Inc. Mardi Gras Texas Style Who we are The Krewe of Olympus - Texas, Inc. was founded in Houston in 1991. The organization celebrates Mardi Gras each year in the tradition of New Orleans. The Texas organization continues the traditions and celebrations began in 1970 by the former Krewe of Olympus in Louisiana. The Krewe sponsors two major events each year, the black tie Olympus Mardi Gras Ball and the Fais Do Do Country Cajun Festival. Since its incorporation in Texas, the Krewe has been designated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Wat is a Krewe? Krewes began in New Orleans as early as the 1700's as secret societies steeped deep in the Mardi Gras tradition. Mardi Gras was originally a French celebration on the day prior to the beginning of Lent. The original krewes were also limited to men only. In more recent times, the krewes have expanded in number and in scope. The 1960's saw the rise of gay krewes. Donning rhinestones and feathers, the gay krewes opened new doors to the pageantry of Mardi Gras. What is a Mardi Gras Ball? Mardi Gras Balls are formal parties where the krewe's members present their carnival costumes. With the advent of the gay krewes, the costumes and presentations have become more and more spectacular. The Krewe of Olympus prides itself on presenting fabulous costumes in an entertaining setting. Over the years Olympus has accomplished that in various forms from the very elaborate and ornate French Court Ball to the campy Lawn Ornament Ball. Each ball carries a theme developed by the Ball Captain, and the costumes follow that theme. The ball presentation is a unique art form to the Houston theater stage and strives to preserve traditions and cultures of olde. During the Olympus Balls, collections are taken for the designated charity of the year. Who are the Royalty? The King and Queen of the Krewe are the two highest positions in the organization, and it is a great honor to be named as one of the royalty. The Ball Captain each year chooses the two members he feels have worked to gain the title of King and Queen Olympus. Throughout the year, the Krewe's royalty serve as host and hostess at Krewe events and make public appearances on behalf of Olympus. Each and every member of the Krewe of Olympus is eligible to be named royalty. What all does Olympus do during the rest of the year? During the year, the Krewe keeps busy as a community-conscious organization. We have a number of fundraisers and various get-togethers. The Krewe has participated in the Houston Gay Pride Parade for the past several years with award winning entries. Being a state-wide organization, we have also participated in the Dallas Freedom Parade and were awarded Best-Out-of-Town Entry in 1993. We also volunteer our time to support other organizations in their fundraising efforts. Some of the events in which we have participated include: The Montrose Counseling Center's Bringin' in the Green, Soiree Aubergene, The Four Seasons Club Military Ball, The Imperial Court Celebrity Auction, and others. Each fall the Krewe sponsors the Fais Do Do Country Cajun Festival. This is a fundraiser for the organization as well as the Krewe's annual charity. The Fais Do Do is a celebration of Cajun food, music and customs. It sounds like fun. So how do I join? It's easy. Membership is open each spring. Anyone interested in joining the Krewe of Olympus is welcome. There is a $25 application fee for a three month Pending Membership. This fee is applied to annual dues. After completing the three months, the pending members are voted upon for full membership in the Krewe. The annual dues are $140. How much time is required of me? This is the fun part. There are no time requirements. However, there are benefits of participation. Each member receives tickets to invite ten guests to the Olympus Ball. The location of your table is based on your contributions to the club. The selection of King and Queen Olympus are also based on commitment and participation in the Krewe. So, just like anything else, you get out of the Krewe what you put into it. I'd like some more information Great! Drop us a note at the address on back or ask one of the members to invite you to our next event. Fun Fun Fun Fun is what we're all about. The Krewe's members enjoy our social events, fundraising, and most importantly the Olympus Mardi Gras Ball. We hope you'll want to join us for some of the fun. Krewe of Olympus - Texas, Inc. P.O. Box 920794 Houston, TX 77292-0794 Revised 4/17/96