The 2009 Rex Procession: Spirits of Spring Rexs theme song If Ever I Cease to Love was written by George Leybourne circa 1870 for the musical comedy Blue Beard. The song was performed at the first Rex parade in 1872 and is still performed for Rex and his Queen when they arrive at the Grand Ball.

Rex King of Carnival Monarch of Merriment Float 1 This year Rex celebrates the 50 th anniversary of the Rex doubloon with a special commemorative doubloon. Rex is Latin for King. Rex is locally known as The king of Carnival. Its also the first float that presents the king of the carnival. The float rolls through the streets of New Orleans on Mardi Gras day. Rex had his first appearance on Mardi Gras in Its also the largest parade. A Rex Doubloon

His Majestys Bandwagon Float 2 Traditionally every year a band rides on this permanent float to provide music for Rex and for those who greet him on the parade route.

The Kings Jesters Float 3 Rexs jesters dress in Mardi Gras colors purple, green, and gold.

The Boeuf Gras Float 4 The float symbolizes the Great Feast on the day before lent begins. Lent has been observed since the fourth century. The Catholic Church licensed Carnival farewell to flesh. The Church also established the set date for the start of Carnival season on January 6, the feast of the Epiphany and the changing date of Mardi Gras.

Bibliography "The Rex Parade." Feb krewes/rex/ krewes/rex/ "Krewe Of Rex." Feb Rex-Parade-at-Mardi-Gras-New-Orleans- USA-Posters_i _.htmhttp:// Rex-Parade-at-Mardi-Gras-New-Orleans- USA-Posters_i _.htm "Rex." Feb