St. Louis Mardi Gras
United States, St. Louis
St. Louis Mardi Gras in Soulard is a vibrant celebration featuring dazzling parades, live music, and unique events like the Purina Pet Parade and Wiener Dog Derby. With Cajun food, colorful floats, and lively crowds, it’s a taste of New Orleans right in Missouri!
Information
LOCATION
St. Louis, United States
DATE
Jan 6 to March 1, 2025
HOTEL & FLIGHT
Book now
ALL EVENTS
Book now
St. Louis Mardi Gras 2025: Complete Guide to Events, Parades & Visitor Tips
The Soulard Mardi Gras in St. Louis is one of the largest and most vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States, second only to New Orleans. The 2025 season promises weeks of lively parades, unique themed events, pet-friendly gatherings, and plenty of food and drink, drawing thousands to St. Louis’s historic Soulard neighborhood. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of Mardi Gras in St. Louis, with tips on event schedules, parade viewing spots, and insider advice to maximize your experience.
What is St. Louis Mardi Gras?
The St. Louis Mardi Gras, centered in the historic Soulard neighborhood, celebrates Louisiana-style Mardi Gras with a Missouri twist. The festivities kick off on January 6 with the Twelfth Night celebration and continue through early March. Soulard’s Mardi Gras features traditional parades, live music, pet-friendly events, and food festivals, each honoring the city’s rich French heritage.
Table of Contents
Key Events at St. Louis Mardi Gras 2025
Bud Light Grand Parade
The Bud Light Grand Parade on March 1 is the highlight of Soulard Mardi Gras. Starting near Busch Stadium, the parade winds through Soulard’s streets with a lively procession of floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. Thousands gather to witness this vibrant parade, making it one of the Midwest’s biggest Mardi Gras celebrations​
Purina Pet Parade
On February 23, the Purina Pet Parade invites pets of all kinds to march in costume, making it a family-friendly event loved by animal enthusiasts. Following the parade, pets can participate in a costume contest and enjoy vendor stalls for pet supplies​
Tito’s Vodka Wiener Dog Derby
The Wiener Dog Derby, held immediately after the Pet Parade, is a quirky and amusing race featuring dachshunds competing in miniature racing heats. Costumed and ready to race, these little dogs add a unique flair to the Soulard Mardi Gras​
Taste of Soulard
The Taste of Soulard (February 22-23) is a self-guided tasting tour of Soulard’s bars and restaurants, featuring Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and king cake. Participants purchase food booklets to sample dishes at each participating venue, offering a taste of New Orleans right in St. Louis​
Other Events
- Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball (February 28): A formal event with live entertainment, held at the St. Louis City Hall.
- Bud Light Party Tent: An all-inclusive experience along the parade route, offering food, drinks, and prime views of the Grand Parade.
- Cajun Cook-Off: A lively cooking competition that lets attendees sample and vote on the best dishes.
What to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Soulard Mardi Gras
Soulard is accessible via public transit, rideshares, or shuttle services, with free shuttles available from Ballpark Village. Driving is not recommended, as parking is limited and street closures affect access on major event days​
Where to Park
If you need to drive, plan to park in lots or garages outside Soulard and take a shuttle or walk to the festival area. Parking fills quickly, so arrive early or consider rideshare options. Designated drop-off points are located at:
- 13th & Russell
- 9th & Ann
- Lafayette & Tucker​
Dress for St. Louis Weather
February weather in St. Louis is unpredictable, so dress in layers. Cold temperatures, rain, and even snow can occur, so wear a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes. For the full Mardi Gras experience, embrace the season’s colors: purple, green, and gold​.
Avoid Prohibited Items
To ensure safety, certain items are prohibited within the festival grounds. Leave bottles, cans, coolers, and backpacks at home, as they will be confiscated at festival checkpoints. For essentials, bring a small, clear bag
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Louis Mardi Gras
Where are the Best Viewing Spots?
Prime viewing locations for the Bud Light Grand Parade include Russell Boulevard and 9th Street, where spectators have a clear view of floats and performances. For an enhanced experience, the Bud Light Party Tent provides food, drinks, and exclusive views, though tickets are required​
Are There Family-Friendly Events?
Yes! The Purina Pet Parade and Taste of Soulard are excellent choices for families, offering a fun, lively atmosphere suitable for all ages. The Wiener Dog Derby is another family-friendly event with unique entertainment.​
Do I Need Tickets for Events?
Many Mardi Gras events, like the Grand Parade and Pet Parade, are free. However, certain events such as the Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball, Bud Light Party Tent, and Taste of Soulard food tours require tickets. Visit the official website to purchase in advance, as some events may sell out​.
Can I Bring My Pet?
Pets are welcome at the Purina Pet Parade, but it’s best to leave them at home for other events, as crowds and noise levels can be overwhelming. If you plan to bring a pet, be sure they’re comfortable in busy environments​.
What Food and Drink Options Are Available?
Soulard boasts a diverse food scene with Cajun and Creole influences. Many bars and restaurants offer special Mardi Gras menus, including popular dishes like po’ boys, jambalaya, and fried alligator. Stop by favorites like Molly’s in Soulard, Hammerstone’s, and Mission Taco Joint for local delicacies.
Top Tips for a Great Mardi Gras Experience
Arrive Early
With large crowds expected, arriving early is key to securing a prime viewing spot and beating traffic. The Grand Parade fills up quickly, so plan to get there well before the parade begins​.
Stay in a Nearby Hotel
Consider booking a hotel near Soulard or in Downtown St. Louis for convenient access to the festivities. Hotels like the Hilton Ballpark, The Cheshire, and Hyatt Regency offer shuttle services, making it easier to enjoy the celebration without parking hassles.
Join the After Party at Ballpark Village
After the Grand Parade, Ballpark Village hosts an official after-party with live music, DJ sets, and themed drink specials. It’s a great spot to continue the celebration into the evening without venturing far from the main events.
Additional Attractions Near Soulard
In addition to Mardi Gras festivities, Soulard offers several must-see attractions:
- Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Tour the historic brewery, a cornerstone of St. Louis, to learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings.
- Soulard Farmers Market: Open year-round, this market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local artisan products, providing a taste of St. Louis’s culinary heritage.
- Gateway Arch: A short drive from Soulard, the Gateway Arch offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city, providing a unique way to experience St. Louis.
Â
Â
With its vibrant parades, diverse events, and welcoming community, the St. Louis Mardi Gras 2025 is a celebration you won’t want to miss. For the latest event details, tickets, and more information, check the official St. Louis Mardi Gras website.
Â
Carnivaland recommends tours, events and accommodation based on our extensive experience and knowledge of them. We may earn affiliate commission from affiliate links in this article. Read more about our policy.
Share:
