Among the marching bands and youth dance troupes that walk in the Artemis and Spanish Town parades, there’s one dance line that proves the fun can continue into adulthood.
The Prancing Babycakes have been a familiar staple in Baton Rouge Carnival celebrations since 2008, with more than 30 women dressing up in fishnet tights, sparkly tops and the requisite white boots to show off their moves for the crowds of revelers.
You know them by their choreographed numbers and signature costume colors of black, white and red, with a little shimmer of gold thrown in for good measure. You might also recognize the “moms” that flank their procession—a gaggle of spouses, partners and friends who dress in white and keep the Babycakes hydrated (and sufficiently buzzed) throughout the parade.
How has this group of local women kept the party going for almost 10 years, when family, new jobs, kids and real life in general sometimes get in the way?
“I think we have a wide range of ages represented, and we’re always inviting new people to join,” says Erin Rolfs, one of the founding members. “We all get along so well and enjoy getting to see each other again for the parades. For as silly as it is, it’s still a special thing that gives us a chance to be together and not take ourselves so seriously.” facebook.com/PrancingBabycakes
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This article was originally published in the February 2017 issue of 225 Magazine.
