Now, it's not unusual for the Mardi Gras After Party headliner to get mixed reviews on social media the following morning. Between heaving crowds, short sets and looming hangovers, it can be a tall order to get thousands of tired marchers up and dancing.
But gay icon and international pop superstar Cher appears to have done just that, stunning crowds with an 18-minute set which included hits "Believe", "Strong Enough" and "If I Could Turn Back Time".
The singer and actress has been a longtime supporter of the LGBTIQ+ community, becoming vocal and politically active on Twitter during recent years. Audience members say her genuine affection was more than apparent throughout her performance.
In September 2013, Cher, whose son Chaz Bono is transgender, declined an invitation to perform at the 2014 Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Russia because of the country's controversial anti-gay legislation.
She's also been strongly opposed to President Donald Trump and his Republican platform, recently taking him to task over the NRA.
One thing's for Cher (geddit?), she's going to be one tough act to follow for next year's party headliner!
