Growing to 2,180 members, the organization crowned its new Queen, introduced Grand Marshal Arkesha Smith Baquet and welcomed 321 new Femmes during its annual Reveal celebration.
Glenda Bell
Data News Weekly Contributor
The countdown to Carnival 2027 officially began as the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale hosted its highly anticipated Annual Reveal Party on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, where more than 2,000 women from across the country gathered for an evening of celebration, sisterhood and unforgettable surprises.
The annual event marked the official kickoff of MKFF’s Carnival season and unveiled several of the krewe’s most anticipated announcements, including the 2027 Queen Femme Fatale, the 2027 Grand Marshal, the official 2027 Parade Theme, and the induction of 321 new members, bringing the organization’s membership to an unprecedented 2,180 women representing 26 states.
This year’s celebration welcomed back the extraordinary lineup of former Grand Marshals whose accomplishments embody the spirit and mission of Femme Nation, including Actress Emyri Crutchfield, Civil Rights Icon Hon. Bernette Joshua Johnson, New Orleans Icon Irma Thomas, Legendary Performer Wanda Rouzan, Trailblazing Dancer/Choreographer Dollie Eaglin-Rivas, and 2026 Grand Marshal Queen Tahj Williams.
The theme, “The Grand Tour: From the Gulf to Around the Globe!” was inspired by iconic destinations around the globe and MKFF’s own impact beyond Louisiana’s Gulf Coast. Parade floats will transport spectators through vibrant representations of countries including Brazil, Japan, France, China, Spain, Italy and more, showcasing the beauty, artistry and traditions that unite cultures worldwide.
“The Grand Tour: From the Gulf to Around the Globe!” celebrates the extraordinary journeys of women who carry the Spirit of Louisiana’s Gulf Coast into the world, transforming communities near and far through their leadership, influence, and achievement,” said Founding Visionary Dr. Gwendolyn V. Rainey.
“This year’s theme reminds every Femme that the world is waiting for her light to shine,” said Kimberly Early, MKFF President. “The Femme Effect extends far beyond Louisiana’s Gulf Coast, as evidenced by our remarkable growth over the past 13 years. Through our shared commitment to leadership, service and sisterhood, our members are creating meaningful change in communities across the nation and around the world. When women lead with purpose and excellence, there is no limit to the impact they can make.”
The spirit of leadership, service, sisterhood and cultural preservation that defines Femme Nation was reflected in the introduction of Femme Arkesha Smith Baquet as the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale’s 2027 Grand Marshal. Her personal and professional journey embodies the values that have become the hallmark of the organization.
A proud member of Femme Nation since 2014, Baquet has ridden in every parade since joining the organization and currently serves as Co-Lieutenant of the Femme Mabulous Krewe under the leadership of Hon. Charlene Larche-Mason.
A respected entrepreneur and community leader, Baquet and her husband, Wayne Baquet, Jr., own and operate the historic Lil Dizzy’s Café in New Orleans’ famed Tremé neighborhood, continuing one of the city’s most beloved culinary legacies. Under their leadership, the family-owned restaurant recently celebrated five years under their ownership.
Baquet’s commitment to preserving New Orleans culture extends well beyond the restaurant. She serves on the Board of Directors for Roots of Music, received the 2026 New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund Honors Award for Culinary Arts, and was recognized with the 2025 Entrepreneurial Visionary Award from Algiers Charter Schools.
One of the evening’s signature moments was the presentation of the three distinguished women selected as candidates for Queen Femme Fatale 2027. Each one exemplified the leadership, service and sisterhood that define Femme Nation. Their individual accomplishments and commitment to the organization were celebrated before Femme Rayven Roberts was named the 2027 Queen-Select, becoming the Official Ambassador of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale for the upcoming Carnival season.
Rayven Lejah Roberts is the daughter of the late Shawn Brock and Tamika Delatte. A devoted registered nurse, community advocate and proud third-generation Femme, Roberts has distinguished herself through her unwavering commitment to leadership, service and sisterhood. Since joining the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale in 2019, she has actively served on numerous committees including Public Relations, Merchandise, Health & Wellness, Community Engagement, and Special Events.
Guided by the scripture Philippians 4:13, Roberts’ life reflects the very essence of the Femme Effect—uplifting others through purpose, excellence and service.
Hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies, Femme Dr. Trashanda Grayes-Butler, the celebration featured FemmeCee Shantrell Green, Special Guest DJ DugdaKid, and entertainment by Rude Jude, creating an evening filled with excitement, sisterhood and anticipation for the Carnival season ahead.
With Reveal officially launching the 2027 Carnival season, the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale now looks ahead to its two signature events:
Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale Gala
Friday, January 29, 2027
Caesars Superdome
Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale Parade
Sunday, January 31, 2027
Uptown New Orleans
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