The Best Soulard Mardi Gras Events!
If you’ve never been, Soulard Mardi Gras events are some of the best – and most unique – parties in St. Louis. Mardi Gras season in Soulard usually lasts for over a month, with a schedule of events perfect for families, foodies, couples, and even pets!
We’re a proud supporter of all things Mardi Gras in St. Louis. Every year we provide safe rides home to guests of both long-standing Mardi Gras traditions like the Grand Parade, to newer events like the Bacchanalian Ball.
With so many fun events to choose from, it can be hard to decide which events you’ll enjoy the most. Here are some of our favorite ways to Let the Good Times Roll for Soulard Mardi Gras!
5K Run For Your Beads
Runners can get creative and break a sweat at the colorful Mardi Gras run. This 5k run welcomes walkers, runners and joggers of all speeds to run in the morning with pit-stops featuring beads, beer, and iconic hurricanes for legally aged runners. We especially love this fun run because immediately after you cross the finish line you can stay to enjoy the Taste of Soulard, for a post-run sampling of Cajun cuisine.
Register for the run by visiting stlmardigras.org here
Taste of Soulard
A long-standing tradition of Soulard Mardi Gras is the food and beverage tasting tour that guides you through some of the most iconic bars and restaurants in Soulard. The Taste of Soulard usually happens over the Saturday and Sunday before the Grand Parade weekend, giving you the lively Mardi Gras experience without the massive crowds that turn out for the Parade. Foodies, families, and pets love visiting Soulard for this weekend of fabulous food! Pro tip: Unseasonably warm weather will bring out larger crowds. If it’s nice outside, you might want to book a taxi to avoid the hassles of parking. Plus you’ll save on walking time if you’re planning a tasting tour across Soulard!
Bacchanalian Ball
A newer event to the Mardi Gras line-up is the themed Bacchanalian Ball! Purchase tickets online and make sure you come dressed to impress. The ball is the place to get into the Mardi Gras spirit with a glamorous, creative outfit that shows off your colorful side. The theme for 2020 is Hollywood Nights, adding even more glitz and glamour to the fun!
Soulard Mardi Gras Grand Parade
It’s not Mardi Gras in St. Louis without the Grand Parade! Watch nearly 100 fabulous floats parade downtown past Busch Stadium towards Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Catch a few stands of beads, enjoy the yearly theme, and experience the biggest celebration of Mardi Gras outside of New Orleans. Pro tip: Arrive early, and take a taxi cab. Parking can be nearly impossible, and plenty of streets are closed for the party. It’s easiest to call a cab to take you to and from Mardi Gras to avoid frustration and have a great time at one of the biggest parties of the year.
Now that you know a few Mardi Gras event highlights, you can explore the full list of events here. With a little pre-planning and costume prep, you’ll be on your way to having a great time at Soulard Mardi Gras.