The Krewe of OAK is joined by other parading organizations, like the Krewe of Chewbacchus, along with dance troupes, such as the Muff-A-Lottas, the Organ Grinders and TAP DAT.

“The Krewe of OAK loves TAP DAT, and TAP DAT loves them back. We've kind of become their unofficial mascot,” said TAP DAT's chief, Nikki Miner, an active member of OAK who helps with fundraising efforts. “We show up to all of their events and perform, and help out where we can.”

Her dancers will wear matching headpieces that incorporate the parade’s theme, along with black and gold costumes created by women in the group. The one-of-a-kind outfits are based on what makes them feel comfortable, Miner said.

“We don't wear matching costumes, because I want all of my ladies to feel confident,” Miner said. “That's what it's about — having a good time and feeling confident.”

Because Miner and the members of TAP DAT wear tap shoes and dance to live brass band music for the entire parade, she prefers the shorter route of Mid-Summer Mardi Gras to the longer routes of Carnival season.

For Miner, the sultry celebration is a welcome alternative to the superkrewes and thick crowds of Carnival on St. Charles Avenue.

“I prefer an old-school, neighborhood Mardi Gras over what Mardi Gras has turned into over the last 10 to 20 years,” said Miner. “I like the smaller, more intimate Mardi Gras stuff. And what's better than Mardi Gras in the middle of summer?”

Jamie Bernstein describes the rowdy event as “a second-line where everyone kind of falls in the back and participates.” At Palmer Park, “everyone is dancing around in costumes,” he said. “It has a Renaissance fair feel to it.”