Mardi Gras has a long and rich history in St. Louis, dating back to the early 1700s when French settlers brought the tradition with them to the region. The first recorded Mardi Gras celebration in St. Louis took place in 1703, making it one of the oldest Mardi Gras celebrations in the United States. Over the years, the celebration has grown and evolved, incorporating elements of various cultures and traditions to become the vibrant and diverse event it is today.
The modern-day Mardi Gras in St. Louis is a two-week-long celebration that includes parades, parties, and other festivities. The celebration kicks off with the Twelfth Night Parade, which marks the official start of the Mardi Gras season. Throughout the two weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday, the city comes alive with colorful floats, marching bands, and revelers dressed in elaborate costumes. The culmination of the celebration is the Grand Parade, which winds its way through the streets of downtown St. Louis, drawing thousands of spectators from near and far. Mardi Gras in St. Louis is a time-honored tradition that brings together people of all backgrounds to celebrate and indulge in the spirit of the season.
Key Takeaways
- Mardi Gras in St. Louis has a rich history dating back to the 1700s, with the first recorded celebration in 1703.
- Must-see parades and events during Mardi Gras in St. Louis include the Grand Parade, the Beggin’ Pet Parade, and the Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball.
- The best places to find King Cakes and Beignets in St. Louis during Mardi Gras include local bakeries and cafes in the Soulard neighborhood.
- Family-friendly activities at Mardi Gras in St. Louis include the Family Winter Carnival, the Purina Pet Parade, and the Kid’s Zone at the Bud Light Party Centre.
- Tips for navigating the crowds and parking during Mardi Gras in St. Louis include arriving early, using public transportation, and planning ahead for road closures.
- The best spots for live music and entertainment during Mardi Gras in St. Louis include the Bud Light Party Centre, the Soulard Market Park, and various bars and restaurants in the Soulard neighborhood.
- How to get involved in the Mardi Gras spirit with costumes and masks in St. Louis includes visiting local costume shops, creating DIY costumes, and participating in the costume contest at the Mayor’s Mardi Gras Ball.
Must-See Parades and Events
One of the must-see parades during Mardi Gras in St. Louis is the Bud Light Grand Parade, which is the largest parade of the season and features over 100 floats, marching bands, and performers. The parade winds its way through the streets of downtown St. Louis, drawing thousands of spectators who come to catch beads and other trinkets thrown from the floats. Another popular event is the Purina Pet Parade, where pet owners dress up their furry friends in festive costumes and parade them through the streets of Soulard, the historic French neighborhood where many of the Mardi Gras festivities take place.
In addition to parades, there are also numerous parties and events throughout the Mardi Gras season in St. Louis. The Taste of Soulard event allows visitors to sample food and drink from some of the area’s best restaurants and bars, while the Cajun Cook-Off features a cooking competition and live music. For those looking for a more family-friendly experience, the Family Winter Carnival offers games, activities, and entertainment for all ages. With so many parades and events to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy during Mardi Gras in St. Louis.
Where to Find the Best King Cakes and Beignets
No Mardi Gras celebration would be complete without indulging in some traditional New Orleans treats, and luckily, there are plenty of places in St. Louis where you can find delicious king cakes and beignets. One popular spot is La Patisserie Chouquette, a French bakery known for its exquisite pastries and desserts. During Mardi Gras season, they offer a variety of king cakes in flavors like traditional cinnamon, cream cheese, and praline pecan. Another favorite is Russell’s on Macklind, a charming bakery and cafe that serves up freshly made beignets dusted with powdered sugar, just like they do in New Orleans.
For those looking for a more traditional New Orleans experience, Broadway Oyster Bar is a must-visit destination during Mardi Gras in St. Louis. This lively restaurant and bar serves up authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, including delicious king cakes and beignets that will transport you straight to the French Quarter. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or a savory snack, there are plenty of options in St. Louis to satisfy your Mardi Gras cravings.
Family-Friendly Activities at Mardi Gras
While Mardi Gras is often associated with wild parties and revelry, there are also plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the celebration in St. Louis. One popular event is the Family Winter Carnival, which takes place in Soulard Market Park and features games, activities, and entertainment for all ages. Kids can enjoy face painting, balloon artists, and live music while parents sample food and drink from local vendors.
Another family-friendly activity during Mardi Gras in St. Louis is the Purina Pet Parade, where pet owners can dress up their furry friends in festive costumes and parade them through the streets of Soulard. This beloved event draws families from all over the city who come to watch the adorable pets strut their stuff and compete for prizes. In addition to these organized events, many of the local restaurants and bars in Soulard welcome families during Mardi Gras, offering special menus and activities for kids. With so many family-friendly activities to choose from, Mardi Gras in St. Louis is a great opportunity for parents and children to celebrate together.
Tips for Navigating the Crowds and Parking
With thousands of people flocking to downtown St. Louis for Mardi Gras festivities, navigating the crowds and finding parking can be a challenge. One tip for navigating the crowds is to arrive early to popular events like the Grand Parade or Taste of Soulard to secure a good spot along the parade route or at a restaurant or bar. Another tip is to use public transportation or rideshare services to avoid dealing with parking altogether.
For those who do plan to drive, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking options. Many of the streets in downtown St. Louis are closed off during Mardi Gras events, so it’s essential to check road closures and plan alternate routes in advance. Additionally, there are several parking garages and lots in the downtown area that offer convenient parking for Mardi Gras attendees, but these can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early or consider carpooling with friends to save time and hassle.
The Best Spots for Live Music and Entertainment
Mardi Gras in St. Louis is not just about parades and parties; it’s also a time for live music and entertainment that captures the spirit of New Orleans. One popular spot for live music during Mardi Gras is Broadway Oyster Bar, which hosts a lineup of local bands playing everything from blues and jazz to zydeco and funk. The outdoor patio at Broadway Oyster Bar is a great place to enjoy live music while sipping on a hurricane cocktail or munching on some Cajun cuisine.
Another great venue for live music during Mardi Gras in St. Louis is Hammerstone’s, a cozy bar located just a few blocks from Soulard Market. This neighborhood favorite features live bands playing a mix of blues, rock, and soul throughout the Mardi Gras season. In addition to these established venues, there are also numerous pop-up stages and street performers scattered throughout Soulard during Mardi Gras, providing plenty of opportunities to catch some live music and entertainment while exploring the festivities.
How to Get Involved in the Mardi Gras Spirit with Costumes and Masks
One of the most fun aspects of Mardi Gras is getting dressed up in colorful costumes and masks to fully embrace the festive spirit of the celebration. Whether you’re attending a parade or partying at one of the local bars or restaurants, wearing a costume or mask adds an extra element of fun to the experience. Many people choose to dress up in traditional Mardi Gras colors like purple, green, and gold, while others opt for elaborate costumes inspired by characters from mythology or folklore.
For those who want to get creative with their costumes, there are several costume shops in St. Louis that offer a wide selection of Mardi Gras-themed outfits and accessories. From feathered masks to sequined capes, there are plenty of options to help you stand out in the crowd during Mardi Gras festivities. Additionally, many local businesses in Soulard host costume contests during Mardi Gras, giving participants a chance to show off their creative ensembles and win prizes for their efforts. Whether you’re dressing up as a mythical creature or simply donning a colorful mask, getting involved in the Mardi Gras spirit with costumes and masks is a fun way to immerse yourself in the celebration.
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FAQs
What is Mardi Gras?
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a festive celebration that takes place before the Christian season of Lent. It is a time for indulgence and revelry before the solemnity of Lent begins.
When is Mardi Gras 2024 in St. Louis?
Mardi Gras 2024 in St. Louis is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 13th.
What can I expect at Mardi Gras in St. Louis?
Mardi Gras in St. Louis is a lively and colorful event featuring parades, live music, street performers, and plenty of food and drink. The celebration typically includes a Grand Parade, a pet parade, and various other events and activities.
Is Mardi Gras in St. Louis family-friendly?
Yes, Mardi Gras in St. Louis offers family-friendly activities and entertainment, including a family zone with games and activities for children.
Are there any COVID-19 precautions in place for Mardi Gras 2024 in St. Louis?
As the event approaches, organizers will likely provide information about any COVID-19 precautions and guidelines that will be in place to ensure the safety of attendees. It is recommended to check the official event website for the latest updates.
