Frontier Airlines is growing its presence at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with the addition of three new routes.
20.12.2024 - 15:51 / lonelyplanet.com
Dec 20, 2024 • 6 min read
The band struck up “Knock With Me, Rock With Me,” by the Lil’ Rascals Brass Band. Or maybe it was “Feel Like Funkin’ It Up” by Rebirth. Or just a cover of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You.” I dunno – any of those songs could be played on any corner, in any second line parade, here in New Orleans, any time of year.
Second lines are open to everyone and are often family-friendly. You’ll see kids waving handkerchiefs alongside older generations who’ve been “second-lining” for decades. While the energy can get boisterous, the focus is on community and joy. Just wear comfortable shoes, bring water (or something stronger if that’s your vibe), and join the fun.
So, what is a second line? In simple terms, it’s an informal neighborhood parade where a brass band leads (the “first line”) and a crowd of revelers follows, dancing and celebrating, hence becoming the “second line.” They really can kick off at any time – people will hire a brass band to play for, say, a spouse’s birthday, and when neighbors fall in behind the band as it moves through the streets, that’s a second line (the band itself is the first line).
This tradition goes way back in the history of New Orleans African Americans. Black mutual aid societies were formed after the Civil War, providing services like healthcare and funerals. Brass bands played a key role in these celebrations and jazz funerals. By the late 19th century, the societies began holding annual parades with music, evolving into today’s second line tradition. These parades are now largely organized by Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs (SAPCs), which continue to host second lines as a way to celebrate community and culture.
Second lines are an organic sort of celebration – while larger parades warrant street permits and planning, others kick off with little to no warning.
If you’re staying in the French Quarter or Central Business District, you may well spot a brass band leading what we’d call ‘corporate second lines’ – bands are hired to play for the many conferences that are held in New Orleans, followed by an inevitably confused pack of business people roped into an often wooden procession. On the other hand, in the same neighborhoods, you may spot a band, a bride, a groom, and a second line parade with the wedding party dancing joyfully in the streets – a celebration that's a much more representative version of the ‘real’ thing.
The second lines put on by Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs are the easiest to find, by dint of their being listed on the Takin’ It To The Streets section of the webpage for WWOZ, the city’s most iconic radio station. You’ll find exact details of where the parade starts and the entire marching route – which can last well over a mile.
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Frontier Airlines is growing its presence at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with the addition of three new routes.
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