It looks like the good times are rolling back our way, and this time with an extra dose of green, purple and yellow hearts.
SoMardi Gras, SoMa’s annual Mardi Gras celebration, is set to make its return to Main Street on Saturday, Feb. 21.
The 16th annual festivities start at 10:30 a.m. with a parade full of floats, cars, performers, walkers and pets all set around this year’s theme of “Laissez Love Rouler,” so we expect a full-on avalanche of adoration.
After the parade, the fun continues with an all-day block party, local vendors, live music, food trucks, activities for the kiddos and The Root’s annual beard and mustache contest at The Bernice Garden.
Also returning this year is the SoMardi Gras VIP Pre-Party. On Feb. 20 at Rock Town Distillery, this ticketed evening will “[set] the stage for the grand celebration the following day” with an exclusive cocktail menu, music from DJ Nick Hud, performances by Arkansas Circus Arts and more.
The 2026 festivities will also feature special guests the Tribe of Gumbolia, a troupe of New Orleans “Masking Indians.” These groups are a cultural tradition in New Orleans where Black members dress in intricately beaded ensembles honoring the Native Americans who provided refuge for runaway slaves.
SoMardi Gras is the signature fundraiser for SoMa 501, the neighborhood nonprofit that promotes small businesses, public art and community events year-round. The 2025 event brought in more than 14,000 visitors and approximately 35% of the organization’s annual operating revenue.
Registration for floats, vendors and volunteers is open now, as are ticket sales for the VIP bash. To learn more, visit the SoMa website, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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