The Flaming Arrows are a New Orleans Black Masking Indian tribe known for their fierce presence on Mardi Gras Day and St. Joseph’s Night, when they meet other tribes to show off their hand-sewn suits.

Their chants and recordings are part of the rich songbook of the tradition, and their beadwork carries the pride of the culture. Each suit takes months of nightly sewing to complete.

Every year the Flaming Arrows sew fresh suits and take to the streets, vying with tribes like the Wild Magnolias and Golden Eagles in the friendly battle to see who is “prettiest.”