They’re adding a hometown touch to the biggest night in sports!

In about a year, all eyes will be on New Orleans as the Super Bowl returns to the Crescent City for its record-tying 11th time. Super Bowl LIX, scheduled for February 9, 2025, will take place inside the iconic Caesars Superdome, and preparations are already in full swing — from logistics and entertainment to, most recently, the official logo unveiling.

For the first time in NFL history, the league has partnered with a local artist to design the Super Bowl logo. The honor went to Louisiana native Tahj Williams, a celebrated Black Masking Indian artist whose beadwork and storytelling have become a cultural cornerstone of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras traditions (NFL.com).

Williams, affectionately known in her community as “Queen Tahj,” serves as the queen of her Black Masking Indian tribe — a vibrant cultural tradition among African Americans in New Orleans who craft elaborate, hand-beaded suits inspired by Native ceremonial attire. This centuries-old practice began in the 19th century as a way to honor Native Americans who aided enslaved Africans escaping bondage (The Times-Picayune).

Her Super Bowl design is an intricate, bead-inspired masterpiece that reflects both her personal heritage and the spirit of the city. The logo prominently features the Vince Lombardi Trophy and the Roman numerals LIX, surrounded by vibrant colors and textures symbolic of Mardi Gras. The fleur-de-lis, an enduring emblem of New Orleans pride, takes center stage — representing resilience, artistry, and the city’s enduring cultural legacy (ESPN).

“I wanted to make sure that New Orleans was felt in every bead, every color, and every line,” Williams said during the reveal event, emphasizing that the logo celebrates “our rhythm, our people, and our pride” (NFL Network Interview).

In addition to its artistic significance, the Super Bowl logo has long been a magnet for fan speculation. Over the years, some enthusiasts have claimed that the logo’s color palette hints at the teams destined to meet in the championship — a lighthearted conspiracy theory that has fueled countless online debates. Williams’ multicolored design, however, might make this year’s guessing game tougher than ever. Her palette includes bright oranges, purples, greens, and silvers, reflecting the diversity of New Orleans itself and countless NFL franchises.

Super Bowl LIX is expected to inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the local economy, drawing visitors from across the country to celebrate football’s grandest stage amid the city’s legendary food, music, and hospitality (Forbes). As the countdown to kickoff begins, the partnership between the NFL and Queen Tahj Williams marks a powerful fusion of sport, art, and cultural heritage — one that ensures the 2025 Super Bowl will truly belong to New Orleans.