Krewe of Zulu Parade – Mardi Gras 2026 | Hand-Decorated Coconuts
Schedule
Tue Feb 17 2026 at 08:00 am to 12:00 pm
UTC-06:00Location
Uptown New Orleans Parade Route | New Orleans, Louisiana
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One of the most culturally significant parades in New Orleans! The Krewe of Zulu kicks off Mardi Gras morning with their legendary parade featuring the most coveted throws in all of Carnival – hand-decorated coconuts.**Date & Time:** Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 8:00 AM (Mardi Gras Day)
**Parade Route:**
• Starts at S. Claiborne Avenue & Jackson Avenue
• Parades down Jackson to St. Charles Avenue (left turn)
• Follows St. Charles around Lee Circle, continues to Canal Street
• Turns left on Canal Street to Basin Street
• Continues on Basin Street to Orleans Avenue
• Ends at Broad Street
**About Krewe of Zulu:**
Founded in 1909, the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is one of Mardi Gras' most culturally significant organizations with deep roots in Black Carnival history. William Story was the first King in 1909, wearing a "lard can" crown and "banana stalk" scepter.
**Signature Throws:**
• Hand-decorated coconuts – the most coveted throw in all of Mardi Gras
**Characters & Guard:**
• Soulful Warriors honor guard
• Big Shot, Witch Doctor, Ambassador, Mayor, Province Prince, Governor, Mr. Big Stuff
**Notable History:**
• Louis Armstrong reigned as King Zulu in 1949
• First floats used in 1915
• 1500 male riders
**Admission:** FREE street-side viewing along the parade route
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Where is it happening?
Uptown New Orleans Parade Route, S. Claiborne Avenue & Jackson Avenue, New Orleans, United States
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