The Krewe de Charlie
Sioux was sanctioned by
the state of Louisiana in
1997. That same year,
Lake Charles and Sioux
City officially became
Sister Cities at a twinning
ceremony in Lake
Charles. Members
consist of Sioux City,
Iowa and Lake Charles
residents. Each city has
its own Krewe president
and Ball Captain. Sioux
City members come to Lake
Charles for Mardi Gras and
Lake Charles members travel
to Sioux City the week of July
Fourth and bring Mardi Gras
to Siouxland in the form of a
gala, parade and Zydeco concert.
The purpose of the Krewe is to promote
Mardi Gras and share cultural experiences
as well as develop tourism in each city. This
Mardi Gras season completes the 25th year
that Krewe members have traveled back and
forth between the two cities, and the 22nd
year of presentation of a King, Queen and Court.
This year, King Charles XXII, Dick Lindblom and
Queen Siouxland XXII, Bernice Zachary, reigned
over the Masquerade Ball festivities in Sioux City.
22 • MARDI GRAS SOUTHWEST • FEBRUARY 24, 2020