The weir in the bayou of Thibodaux, Louisiana was constructed in 1969 to create a reservoir for water treatment facilities and sugar mills farther north. The weir served its original purpose but later became a hindrance by impeding the flow of water in the bayou and preventing boat access. Friends of Bayou Lafourche wanted to host a community event to celebrate it being torn down.

The Weir Removal Boat Parade was planned so people could ride their boats down the newly dam free bayou and also enjoy food and music. The date kept being pushed back due to unexpected weather.