Costume Contests



🎭 Human Costume Contests at Mardi Gras in the Spa 🎭

Presented by Magic Springs

Ready to take the stage?

Whether you’re adorable, outrageous, glamorous, spooky, hilarious, or full Mardi Gras royalty — this is your moment to shine!

We’re hosting THREE high-energy costume contests throughout the day, and entry is completely FREE.


🧒 Kids Costume Contest

Ages 12 & Under
🕒 2:45 PM (During the 2:45 Intermission)

Break out the beads, glitter, capes, crowns, superheroes, princesses, pirates, and everything in between. We can’t wait to see the creativity!


🧑 Teen Costume Contest

Ages 13–17
🕒 3:45 PM (During the 3:45 Intermission)

Bold. Creative. Over-the-top. Funny. Dramatic.
Teens — this is your chance to own the stage.


🕺 Adult Costume Contest

Ages 18+
🕒 4:45 PM (During the 4:45 Intermission)

Go all in. Mardi Gras royalty, themed group costumes, hilarious concepts, elegant creations — bring the energy and the wow factor!


🎟️ How to Enter

✔️ No entry fee
✔️ No online registration required
✔️ Simply visit the Check-In Booth (located to the LEFT of the stage)
✔️ Register before your contest time

That’s it!


🏆 Prizes & Judging

All contests are proudly sponsored by Magic Springs.

A variety of prizes will be awarded. Judges will evaluate:

• Creativity
• Originality
• Effort
• Overall presentation

Participants will take the stage during the designated intermission time and be introduced to the crowd.


💜 Tips for Contestants

• Arrive early to register
• Be ready when your age group is called
• Bring the energy and have fun
• Don’t forget — this is Mardi Gras!


Mardi Gras in the Spa is about celebration, community, and unforgettable memories in Downtown Hot Springs.

Costumes aren’t required to attend… but they sure make it more fun.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!


Pet Costume Contest

Get ready for one of the most adorable highlights of the day!

The Mardi Gras in the Spa Pet Costume Contest is your pet’s chance to shine on the big stage and show off their Mardi Gras spirit.


🎭 Event Details

Time: 1:45 p.m.
Entry Fee: FREE
Location to Register: Check-In Tent (to the left of the stage)

There is no pre-registration required. Simply bring your pet in costume and stop by the Check-In Tent before the contest begins to get registered.


🏆 Sponsored By

This year’s Pet Costume Contest is proudly sponsored by:

Lake Hamilton Animal Hospital
Hot Springs Animal Hospital

We are honored to have Dr. Brian Peters serving as the Official Grand Marshal of the Pet Costume Court, helping oversee this festive and fur-filled celebration.

The winning pet will receive a special gift basket courtesy of our generous sponsors!


👑 What to Expect

Whether your pup is dressed as a pirate, your cat is royalty, or your dachshund is rocking Mardi Gras beads, this contest is all about:

  • Creativity
  • Personality
  • Mardi Gras flair
  • And lots of tail wags

This is a family-friendly event and one of the most entertaining moments of the day. Be sure to bring your cameras — you won’t want to miss it!


🐶 Important Notes

  • All pets must remain on a leash or in a carrier.
  • Owners are responsible for their pets at all times.
  • Please ensure your pet is comfortable and safe in their costume.
  • Be mindful of crowds and noise.

Bring the beads.
Bring the sparkle.
Bring the fur.

We can’t wait to see which pet takes home the crown!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! 🐾🎉

We will pause swag sales beginning saturday at 5pm until after the event