Ja’Nya Anae Williams has been named Queen Suzanne Simonne’ LXVIII for the 2026 Mardi Gras season. Hailing from Breaux Bridge, she is supported by her devoted family—led by her mother, stepfather, and grandparents—reflecting the festival’s spirit of togetherness and celebration.

New Orleans witnessed an 18% surge in tourism in 2025, buoyed by iconic gatherings like Super Bowl LIX and Amtrak Mardi Gras. As the city celebrates these milestones, officials are looking ahead to further growth in 2026.