business and finance | May 23, 2026

What is a second line funeral procession?

The musicians, funeral directors, family, and friends of the dead make up what is called the first or main line, while the crowd marching behind is collectively known as the second line. As the procession moves from the funeral service to the burial site, the first and second lines march to the beat of a brass band.

.

Simply so, what is a second line at a funeral?

The second line is a group of mourners/revelers that assembles behind the first line—usually marching solemnly to the grave, then dancing and celebrating on the route away from the grave. These funerals, while not as wild and colorful as the famed Mardis Gras parades, are truly something to behold and be a part of.

Likewise, how much does a second line parade cost? Cost: $700.00 - $1,000.00 (special events will help with this, as there is a small list of bands who do this.) Second lines go 6 to 8 blocks. You can plan your route, but cannot go against traffic. Average cost: $1,200.00 to $1,500.00, depending on the band.

Also to know is, what is a second line in NOLA?

Everything You Need to Know About New Orleans' Second Line. The second line refers to everyone else: fellow revelers or mourners and those who have just decided to join in as it moves along. In the event of a funeral, the casket may be among the front of the line.

How long does a second line last?

about 20 minutes

Related Question Answers

Who is allowed to second line at a funeral?

The musicians, funeral directors, family, and friends of the dead make up what is called the first or main line, while the crowd marching behind is collectively known as the second line. As the procession moves from the funeral service to the burial site, the first and second lines march to the beat of a brass band.

Why do they call it a second line?

The Second Line – the magazine of the New Orleans jazz club, started in 1950 – took its name from the second lining tradition, which by that time included fans of jazz music, both black and white.

Do they have a second line today?

Revolution Second Line The City of New Orleans has granted a permit to the 2020 Revolution Social Aid & Pleasure Club Second Line, which will take place Sunday, March 22, 2020. Expect road closures and traffic delays during the event in the Treme, Seventh Ward, Bayou St. John, and Mid-City neighborhoods.

What is funeral music called?

dirge
  • a funeral song or tune, or one expressing mourning in commemoration of the dead.
  • any composition resembling such a song or tune in character, as a poem of lament for the dead or solemn, mournful music.
  • the office of the dead, or the funeral service as sung.

What is a second line umbrella?

In the New Orleans tradition of the Jazz Funeral procession, the family of the deceased is the “first line” of mourners and non-family members are the “second line”. A second line umbrella is a unique artistic expression that reflects the bravura of their maker, no matter what the occasion.

What is a second line in music?

noun. Second line is a type of rhythm used in New Orleans jazz and blues music, or those who follow behind the musical members of a parade to enjoy the music. An example of second line is the rhythm of the music performed by jazz bands in New Orleans parades.

Is there a second line Sunday?

The 2019 Perfect Gentlemen second-line will take place Sunday, Jan. 6, through the Central Business District, the Warehouse District and the Central City, Garden District, Milan and Broadmoor neighborhoods.

Do they have a second line in New Orleans today?

Some of the festivals celebrating New Orleans music and culture, like Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, and Satchmo Fest, include second lines open to the public. Finally, there's an organized second line every Sunday from late August through June, with occasional breaks for a major holiday.

What is New Orleans funeral music called?

A jazz funeral is a funeral procession accompanied by a brass band, in the tradition of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Why do they carry umbrellas in New Orleans?

The History of the Umbrella The idea of carrying an umbrella for shade was very common and it was also a symbol of southern style, femininity and grace. This umbrella became an accessory of choice for many southern weddings and was often an indicator of societal statue.

Who Wrote second line?

Bill Sinegal. Willie Norman "Bill" Sinegal (or Bill Sinigal, May 13, 1928 – April 14, 2014, New Orleans, Louisiana) was an American rhythm and blues bass guitarist and songwriter from New Orleans. He is best known for his song Second Line.

How does New Orleans celebrate death?

When people die in New Orleans, we like to fill the streets with music – a celebration of the person's life as much as a mourning of his or her death. Mourners are joined by a brass band that plays music that starts off heavy and sad but soon turns celebratory. Everybody dances.

What is a wedding second line?

The wedding second line celebrates the newlyweds as they embark on a new life together. The main line leading the parade for a wedding is made up of the married couple, the brass band and usually a grand marshal. The second line is the wedding party and any passersby who want to join the celebration.

What is Super Sunday in New Orleans?

It is a day for the city's Mardi Gras Indian tribes to put on their colorful suits and "strut their stuff" while marching in a procession through the streets. In keeping with traditions that date back to the 19th century, New Orleans Super Sunday is the Sunday closest to St. Joseph's Day (March 19).

What is second line drumming?

Second Line Drumming - Basics. The mourners or "Second Line" would dance in the streets behind the band to release/purge their sorrows. The rhythms played by the drums during this portion of the ceremony became known as "Second Line" rhythms or "street beats".

What is a New Orleans funeral march?

A typical funeral began with a slow march from the home of the deceased to the church or funeral home. During the march, the coffin may have been carried by a horse-drawn hearse and was accompanied by a brass band playing somber dirges and hymns.

Can you throw a parade for yourself in New Orleans?

You Can Throw Your Own Parade in New Orleans! You will be told to fill out a Master Special Event Permit Application and a Parade Permit Application (additional forms may be required.) You'll also be asked to note your parade date, time, and route.

How do people in New Orleans celebrate their birthdays?

Here's our top ways to celebrate New Orleans' birthday in 2018.
  1. Steamboat Natchez in the fog (Photo: Paul Broussard)
  2. The Preservation Hall All Stars (Photo: Zack Smith)
  3. Mardi Gras World (Photo: Rebecca Todd)
  4. The National World War II Museum (Photo: Zack Smith)
  5. NOLA 300 Sign in Woldenberg Park (Photo: Paul Broussard)

How do you get a second line parade in New Orleans?

After choosing your Second Line parade route, you will need to file a permit with the City of New Orleans. The 'Master Event Application' and 'Supplement C-Parade Form' are available online under and must be submitted to One Stop Shop no later than 1 ½ to 2 months prior to the parade date.