It’s a 10-hour drive to Bourbon Street. Luckily, St. Louis has the next-biggest Mardi Gras celebration in the nation! Soulard has been decked out in purple and gold for weeks now. And while that’s certainly the headline-grabber among the celebrations, it’s not the only one. Here are a few sure bets for you and yours to laissez les bons temps rouler.
Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball | February 13
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Our city takes the party so seriously that the mayor gets in on the celebration. The ball—making its return to City Hall—is a swank affair the night before the parade with live music from Dr. Zhivegas, performances from aerialists and stilt walkers, specialty beads and more. There’s also great food and premium open bars all evening. The event is hosted by the Mardi Gras Foundation, and the proceeds benefit the City of St. Louis Tornado Response Fund. 7 pm.– midnight. Single tickets start at $245. St. Louis City Hall, 1200 Market Street.
Soulard Mardi Gras | February 14
This is not a drill: The Bud Light Grand Parade starts Saturday at 11 a.m. at Busch Stadium and proceeds through downtown and Soulard to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Krewes have been working on their floats all year. Expect creativity, glitz, and maybe even a touch of decadence. Plan ahead, because it’s going to be a long, crowded day. Dress for the weather, make sure your phone is charged, and figure on using a rideshare or transit. The festivities continue into the night at the neighborhood’s many watering holes.
Mardi Gras Parade and Afterparty | February 15
French-accented St. Charles seems like a pretty obvious place for a big Mardi Gras celebration. The family-friendly parade starts at 11 a.m. and proceeds along Main Street. Afterward, from noon–2 p.m., the Lewis and Clark Boathouse hosts an afterparty in the parking lot, with live music, kids’ activities, vendors, and local favorites for food and drink.
Granite City Mardi Gras | February 14
Bourbon Street comes to Granite City. The parade steps off at 2 p.m. Afterward, enjoy a party with food, entertainment, and bands from 3–8:30 p.m. at The Mill. And tunes will be provided by Sweetie and the Toothaches and John Shanahan.
Cocktail Carnival | February 17
If you’re a stickler, then you know that Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday,” and it’s not actually until Tuesday, February 17. STL Barkeep knows! From 5–10 p.m. at the Piper Palm House (4271 Northeast) in Tower Grove Park, celebrate with accuracy, exquisite alco- and n/a tipple, Cajun treats, live jazz from P’Tah Williams and Vince Sala, and fundraising for Tower Grove Park.
Fat Tuesday | February 17
Billed as “the final cheers,” Fat Tuesday in Soulard is officially the end of Mardi Gras season. But, fun fact: the neighborhood is a great time all year long! Stop into all your favorite spots on Tuesday to throw the final beads of 2026.
Voodoo Funky Butt | February 17
Broadway Oyster Bar is a little touch of NOLA all year long. On Fat Tuesday, Funky Butt Brass Band and Sean Canan join forces to really put a Cajun spin on the night. 8 p.m., $12. Broadway Oyster Bar.
