2008 ZULU MARDI GRAS PARADE

When people think about Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana, they usually think about the Zulu parade, and the 2008 Zulu Mardi Gras parade will not be a disappointment. With pageantry, flair, and a whole lot of fun, the Zulu parade is a true Mardi Gras treat. Let's take a look at some of the details.

Zulu Coconuts

The most famous throws in all of Mardi Gras are the Zulu coconuts. Forget the beads and doubloons, these Zulu coconuts are the real treasure! Most people won't catch a coconut, but those lucky few will have a New Orleans souvenir that they will never forget.

Also known as golden nuggets, Zulu coconuts have a very interesting history. As far as we can tell, these Mardi Gras coconuts have been given out during the parade since 1910, so the 2008 Zulu Mardi Gras parade will mark the 98th anniversary of this famous throw. While the original Zulu coconuts were natural and not painted, the coconuts given out in the 2008 New Orleans parade are highly decorated. Some are painted a golden color, and some have an intricate design. These Zulu coconuts used to be thrown very hard at the crowds, but now they are either lightly lobbed or handed to everyone. This has changed because the Zulu society was unable to get insurance in 1987 due to all of the injuries, but the Louisiana Legislature created a "Coconut Bill" that removed liability in 1988. If you are in New Orleans for the 2008 parade, do everything that you can to catch one of these throws!

2008 Zulu Parade Route

The 2008 Zulu parade route will begin along Jackson Avenue in New Orleans, Louisiana. The parade will continue along St. Charles Avenue, and then turn onto Canal Street and then on Orleans Street. The 2008 Zulu parade route will end at the corner of Broad and Orleans.

2008 Zulu Parade Schedule

The 2008 Zulu parade schedule will be very exciting. As usual, the parade will begin at 8:00 A.M. So make sure that you are at your spot no later than 7:00 A.M. The 2008 Zulu parade schedule shows that it will be held on the Monday before Mardi Gras, on February 5, 2008 (2/5/08). The 2008 Zulu parade will last anywhere from three to four hours, and it is possible to catch it twice if you plan ahead.