Membership Options
Join a family that turns heritage into celebration, where faith, friendship, and tradition come alive in every parade and gathering.
General
$175/yr
WHO IT’S FOR
Men and non-riding women who want to take part in every Society event and celebration.
Participation in the St. Joseph’s Day Parade
Entry to the Parade Party and St. Joseph’s Gala
Invitations to all Society meetings and social events
Option for women to ride on a designated float for a small additional float fee
Riding Female
$350/yr
WHO IT’S FOR
Women who want to ride on a float while enjoying every Society celebration.
Float participation in the St. Joseph’s Day Parade
Entry to the Parade Party and St. Joseph’s Gala
All float fees included
Invitations to exclusive pre-parade events
Maid
$100/yr
WHO IT’S FOR
Daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and friends ages 5 to 25 who represent the beauty and spirit of Italian heritage.
Float participation in the St. Joseph’s Day Parade
Entry to the Parade Party and St. Joseph’s Gala
Presentation at the gala with a sponsoring relative
Beautiful white gown and Italian tri-color sash worn during parade
Member Benefits
The Society has a rich history and a wonderful national reputation. Over the past 40 years, it has grown into the largest Italian-American organization in the southeastern United States.
March through the heart of the French Quarter in a four-hour celebration of faith and heritage. The parade features vibrant floats, beautiful parade maids, live bands, and hundreds of members in tuxedos interacting with the crowd. Walking or riding, every participant helps carry the spirit of St. Joseph through the city.
Held the day before the parade at the Hilton New Orleans, this lively event introduces the Grand Marshal, Queen, and Caesar to the public. Enjoy music, wine, and the world’s largest bowl of Pasta con le Sarde while celebrating the start of an incredible weekend.
This pre-parade gathering sets the tone for an unforgettable night. Members come together to eat, drink, and celebrate as they prepare to step off for the parade. Wives and girlfriends are always welcome.
A beautiful celebration immediately following the parade, held in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton New Orleans. Dance the night away with live music, Italian cookies, muffalettas, and mixers. Parade maids are presented and escorted by their sponsors, and members may reserve tables or purchase additional tickets to share the evening with friends and family.
Three annual meetings take place in the month leading up to the parade. These gatherings are a chance to socialize, review parade details, and purchase throws, flowers, and gala tickets. Members enjoy reconnecting while preparing for the city’s favorite Italian celebration.
Members may sponsor daughters, granddaughters, nieces, or friends ages 5 to 25 as parade maids. These young women ride in the parade and participate in luncheons, teas, and presentations leading up to the big day. For many, this becomes a cherished annual tradition shared across generations.
Members come from all over the country, from Louisiana to New York and California, united by pride in their Italian heritage. Together, they build friendships, share laughter, and celebrate a legacy that continues to grow stronger each year.
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The Scholarship
The Italian American St. Joseph Society, Inc. (IASJS) Scholarship Program rewards students who demonstrate a commitment to learning and sharing Italian culture, history, and traditions. The society awards three separate scholarships of $1,000 each. Applications include an essay on Italian values, official transcripts, and community service records. The submission deadline is February 1st annually.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents between the ages of 16 and 20 currently enrolled in an accredited high school or college.
Specific requirements include:
- Having a parent or grandparent of Italian heritage.
- Maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or 3.75 (5.0 scale).
- Being available to attend the award presentation in New Orleans in March.
- Having no immediate family ties to the IASJS leadership or selection committee
Please download the Scholarship Application, fill it out and return by mail.
Prefer to apply by mail?
Make checks payable to Italian American St. Joseph Society and mail to:
Italian American St. Joseph Society
126 Sierra Court
Metairie, LA 70001
504-568-0480
Membership: 504-376-4775
Questions? Call Dante Cortello at 504-376-4775
Join the family
Help carry a proud tradition forward.