14. The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club
Founded in 1909, the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club brought a fresh, irreverent spirit to Mardi Gras. Using humor, elaborate costumes, and playful satire, Zulu’s members challenged racial barriers and turned their parade into one of New Orleans’ most beloved traditions. Their iconic coconut throws and joyful performances have become legendary. According to the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, the organization’s history is a powerful reminder of how spectacle and solidarity can drive social change.
