Mardi Gras

St. Louis is home to the second-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country! The events are in Soulard, the historic French neighborhood only a short Uber or MetroLink ride away from the medical campus. The ever-unpredictable Midwestern weather means that you may be celebrating in balmy or freezing temperatures. Luckily, the beads, beer, and crowds of revellers are always a constant during the Grand Parade and its after-party in the streets of Soulard. The Mardi Gras festivities last for about a month through January and February, and feature events like a “cajun cook-off,” a snowman softball tournament, a 5K, pet parade, and the Weiner Dog Derby. The Grand Parade is the celebration’s finale, with 100 floats, thousands of beads, and festively-dressed attendees. Pack your favorite sparkly gear, beads, facepaint (and maybe a coat), and get ready for some fun!