The Human Horse Races, now in their sixth year, are a quirky, family-friendly Thanksgiving Day event held in Mid-City New Orleans. Participants don oversized rubber horse masks and race while carrying others on their backs, creating a playful alternative to the traditional horse races at the Fairgrounds Race Course. Founded by Ingrid Anderson, a makeup artist and fashion designer, the event was inspired by a desire to offer an animal-friendly, whimsical substitute for those who enjoy the festive atmosphere of race day but oppose horse racing on ethical grounds. The races feature adult, family, and children’s categories, with participants often decorating their masks and adopting equestrian personas.
Beyond the races, the event includes food trucks, craft booths, costume contests, carnival games, and a halftime show by the Mardi Gras troupe The Jamettes. Attendees dress up in festive attire, and while betting is not part of the event, raffle tickets are sold to raise funds for local equine rescue organizations like Greeno Equine Sanctuary. Drawing around 3,000 people annually, the Human Horse Races offer a fun, wholesome, and surreal celebration that many find more enjoyable than the traditional track races nearby. The 2024 event will be held at Easton Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with admission priced at $10 in advance and $15 at the gate.
