News Summary
Olivia Dunne, a prominent gymnast at LSU and a social media influencer, will lead the Krewe of Endymion parade as Grand Marshal. The parade takes place in New Orleans, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage with over 3,200 riders. Dunne’s involvement has generated excitement due to her popularity and her advocacy for female student-athletes. She’s also featured in the upcoming Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. Following the parade, a celebration at Caesar’s Superdome will feature renowned artists and mark a highlight in the Mardi Gras festivities.
New Orleans – Olivia Dunne, a celebrated member of the LSU gymnastics team and an influential athlete in the realm of social media, has been named the Grand Marshal for the 2025 Krewe of Endymion parade. The parade is set for March 1, 2025, the Saturday preceding Mardi Gras, and Dunne will lead over 3,200 riders and 37 floats through the streets of Mid-City and downtown New Orleans, showcasing a vibrant display of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Dan Kelly, the captain of the Krewe of Endymion, expressed enthusiasm about Dunne’s involvement, highlighting that her vibrant spirit embodies the essence of Mardi Gras. Known for her dynamic performances and engaging personality, Dunne is expected to bring excitement and energy to the iconic parade.
Olivia Dunne is not only a prominent gymnast but also recognized as the most followed NCAA athlete on popular social media platforms. Commanding a staggering 8 million followers on TikTok and 5.3 million on Instagram, she has leveraged her online presence to earn an estimated $4 million annually through various name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Her remarkable journey has caught the attention of audiences and brands alike, making her a significant figure in the world of sports and advertising.
In addition to her role as Grand Marshal, Dunne has also been selected as one of the models for the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition, marking her third consecutive appearance in this notable publication. Last year, she graced the cover alongside fellow athlete Angel Reese, which focused on the evolution and impact of NIL in the world of college athletics. Dunne continues to be a strong advocate for self-confidence among female student-athletes, exemplified through her initiatives such as the Livvy Fund.
Following the parade, the Krewe of Endymion will host an extravagant celebration at Caesar’s Superdome featuring performances by renowned artists Katy Perry and the band Train. This event marks a significant highlight in New Orleans’ Mardi Gras festivities, drawing thousands of attendees eager to celebrate together.
Recognized not only for her athletic accolades but also for her presence as a social media influencer and role model, Olivia Dunne has become a source of inspiration for many young athletes. Recently, she has also made headlines for her personal life, dating Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, who was honored as the National League Rookie of the Year. This high-profile connection adds to her popularity and public interest.
Overall, Olivia Dunne’s appointment as Grand Marshal for the Krewe of Endymion parade has generated excitement not only among her followers but also within the local community, marking a significant recognition of her contributions both on and off the athletic field. Her leadership in this event is a testament to the blend of sports, culture, and community spirit that defines New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Livvy Dunne Moves On: Celebrating Her Gymnastics Journey
Livvy Dunne Launches ‘The Livvy Fund’ to Empower Female Athletes
LSU Provost Roy Haggerty Steps Down in Leadership Shake-Up
LSU Gymnastics Advances to Regional Finals at University Park
New Orleans Hosts Match Day 2025 Celebrations
Freshman Gymnast at LSU Exemplifies Academic and Athletic Success
Shreveport Welcomes Major Investments and Political Changes
Future of University of New Orleans in Jeopardy
LSU Gymnast Olivia Dunne Celebrates Resilience at Krewe of Endymion
Additional Resources
- LSU Reveille
- Fox 8 Live
- NOLA.com
- WWLTV
- Marca
- Wikipedia: Mardi Gras
- Google Search: Olivia Dunne Endymion parade
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mardi Gras
- Google News: Olivia Dunne Grand Marshal
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