Throw Like a Local: Iconic New Orleans Parade Throws & Their Stories

In New Orleans, catching a parade throw isn’t just about scoring free loot—it’s about holding a little piece of Carnival magic in your hands. And for riders, tossing that perfect prize isn’t just tradition—it’s an art form.

The Krewe of Les Bon Temps Rouler is rolling into its first year with the same spirit that’s fueled generations of parades, bringing both classic and creative throws to the streets.

A Brief History of the Toss

The tradition of tossing trinkets to the crowd dates back to the early 1870s when krewes began showering spectators with treats to promote joy and participation. Over the years, throws evolved from sugar-coated almonds and glass trinkets to plastic beads, toys, and unique, krewe-specific treasures. Every krewe has its own “signature throws,” and locals know exactly which ones to keep an eye out for.

The Classics:

• Beads: The heartbeat of parade season. Whether they’re long, short, metallic, or shaped like flamingos, beads are a parade must-have.

• Doubloons: Aluminum coins stamped with krewe logos and parade themes—small enough to slip in your pocket, big enough to spark a collecting habit.

• Cups: In New Orleans, parade cups (aka “go cups”) aren’t just souvenirs—they’re part of daily life. You’ll find them in kitchen cabinets all over the city.

Iconic Signature Throws in NOLA History

• Zulu Coconuts: Hand-painted, glittered, and prized above all. No two are alike.

• Muses Shoes: Glittering, hand-decorated high heels tossed by the all-female Krewe of Muses.

• Nyx Purses: Beaded and bedazzled bags from the now-retired Krewe of Nyx.

• Tucks Plungers: Decorated toilet plungers—equal parts hilarious and collectible.

Throws with a Twist: Les Bon Temps Rouler Edition

For our All Things New Orleans theme, you can expect throws that tell the city’s story. Imagine beads strung with miniature brass instruments, cups decorated with iconic street signs, and medallions featuring the Sazerac, beignets, or wrought iron balcony patterns. Each float’s throws will connect to its theme and sponsor, making them instant keepsakes.

How to Throw Like a Local

• Aim for Hands, Not Heads: A graceful toss is better than a fastball.

• Make Eye Contact: Spot someone in the crowd and throw just to them—it makes their night.

• Hold Back the Good Stuff: Save your best throws for spots with lots of kids or super-enthusiastic paradegoers.

• Mix It Up: Don’t just throw beads—alternate with cups, trinkets, and theme-specific surprises.

Why Throws Matter

Throws are more than party favors—they’re part of the shared joy that connects riders and spectators. Each toss is a tiny exchange of happiness, a chance to say, “Thanks for being here. You’re part of this moment.” And in New Orleans, those moments are what we live for.

When the Krewe of Les Bon Temps Rouler rolls, we’re not just keeping the tradition alive—we’re adding our own sparkle to it. So whether you’re catching from the crowd or tossing from the float, remember: in this city, we don’t just throw beads… we throw memories.