SoMardi Gras Returns to SoMa on February 21, 2026

Aug 1

Laissez les bons temps rouler, Mardi Gras lovers! The 16th annual SoMardi Gras Parade & Street Festival, presented by SoMa 501, returns to Little Rock’s south Main Street (SoMa) district on Saturday, February 21, 2026, one week later than usual so we can celebrate both Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras. The change allows Central Arkansas Mardi Gras lovers who usually travel to New Orleans the chance to celebrate right here at home.

SoMardi Gras is SoMa 501’s largest fundraiser of the year, supporting its mission to champion economic development, preserve its neighborhood’s historic integrity, and create an exceptional downtown experience for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Last year’s event drew a record 14,000 attendees, created an estimated economic impact of $2.5 million, and included 43 sponsors, 107 vendors, and 12 entertainers. The 2025 event also helped fund a new community mural, a vibrant “Greetings from SoMa” mural celebrating our eclectic, welcoming spirit.

“Our neighborhood shows up with heart, soul, and sequins every year,” said Elizabeth Michael, Executive Director of SoMa 501. “We’re thrilled to bring SoMardi Gras back for its 16th year, and we’re moving it just a little later so we can throw the biggest party in Arkansas without sharing the spotlight with Valentine’s Day.”

“We start planning the minute the confetti hits the ground,” added Keri Fishburn, Vice President of the SoMa 501 Board and Chair of the Events Committee. “We ask our Business and Merchants Association for theme ideas, then let them vote. The results never disappoint. Stay tuned, because this year’s theme will be revealed soon!”

As a Main Street Arkansas program, SoMa 501 works year-round with local businesses, government partners, and stakeholders to deliver improvements, events, and projects that make SoMa a unique, dynamic place to live, work, and visit.

Interested in sponsoring, vending, volunteering, or parading?

Email: events@somalittlerock.com

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