More Than a Festival What Is Mardi Gras in the Spa?
Mardi Gras in the Spa brings the color, music, food, costumes and unmistakable spirit of Mardi Gras to the heart of downtown Hot Springs while bringing our community together to help people who need it most.
Then Hot Springs Showed Up
Mardi Gras in the Spa began with a simple vision: create a new celebration that felt like Hot Springs, welcomed both locals and visitors, and used a great day of fun to make a meaningful difference in the community.
In 2026, that idea became reality.
Thousands of people filled the Bridge Street Entertainment District for food, music, costumes, vendors, Mardi Gras royalty, family activities and a celebration unlike anything we had done before.
2026 Was Just the Beginning
What started as a new idea quickly showed us how much potential Mardi Gras in the Spa has to become a lasting Hot Springs tradition.
Celebration Can Do Something Good
Mardi Gras has always been about gathering together, celebrating life and sharing an experience with the people around you.
We believe that celebration becomes even more meaningful when it also gives something back.
Mardi Gras in the Spa exists to create an incredible community event while raising money and awareness for organizations helping people facing hunger, food insecurity and difficult circumstances.
Our Version of Mardi Gras
We’re not trying to recreate New Orleans. We’re taking the spirit of Mardi Gras and making something uniquely Hot Springs.
Live Entertainment
Music and performances keep the celebration moving throughout the day.
Food & Drinks
Food trucks, local favorites and festival treats make eating part of the fun.
Costume Contests
Kids, adults and pets can show off their best Mardi Gras looks.
Mardi Gras Vendors
Themed vendors, makers and businesses add color throughout the district.
The Procession
Creative walking groups and decorated entries move through the celebration zone.
VIP Zone
A comfortable home base beside the action for guests who want the VIP experience.
Two Celebrations. One Mission.
Mardi Gras in the Spa has grown beyond a single day. In 2027, the celebration begins with our Masquerade Ball and continues with the downtown festival.
Mardi Gras in the Spa Masquerade Ball
An elegant evening at Hotel Hot Springs featuring dinner, live entertainment, Mardi Gras style, fundraising and an unforgettable night with the community.
Mardi Gras in the Spa Festival
Our signature downtown celebration returns to the Bridge Street Live Entertainment District with food, music, costumes, vendors, VIP experiences, a procession and family-friendly Mardi Gras fun.
Because This Is Hot Springs
Hot Springs has always known how to welcome people, entertain visitors and create experiences they remember.
Mardi Gras in the Spa combines that hospitality with the color, music and tradition of Mardi Gras to create something that belongs specifically to our community.
It’s downtown Hot Springs. It’s local businesses. It’s visitors and neighbors standing side by side. And it’s becoming one more reason to love the Spa City.
Supporting Project HOPE Food Bank
In our first year, Mardi Gras in the Spa supported Jackson House and helped raise funds for the work they do in our community.
For 2027, we’re partnering with Project HOPE Food Bank, allowing the impact of Mardi Gras in the Spa to reach even farther in the fight against hunger and food insecurity.
Bring people together. Create something special for Hot Springs. Use that celebration to help people in need.
Come Be Part of the Tradition
Mardi Gras in the Spa isn’t simply something to watch. It’s something our community creates together.
Attend it. Volunteer. Build a procession entry. Dress up. Become a vendor. Sponsor it. Bring your family and friends.
January 30, 2027 — Masquerade Ball
February 6, 2027 — Mardi Gras in the Spa
Two celebrations. One mission. One growing Hot Springs tradition.