St. Louis vs. New Orleans: Which City Does Mardi Gras Better?
When you think of Mardi Gras, New Orleans likely comes to mind first—and for good reason. The city has built an international reputation for its extravagant parades, lively parties, and rich cultural traditions tied to this iconic festival. But did you know that St. Louis throws its own epic Mardi Gras celebration that rivals the Crescent City? In fact, St. Louis hosts one of the largest Mardi Gras festivals in the U.S., attracting visitors from all over the country. Both cities have their own unique takes on the celebration, but which one does Mardi Gras better?
In this head-to-head showdown between St. Louis and New Orleans, we’ll dive into the history, culture, and festivities of both cities to determine which truly reigns supreme when it comes to Mardi Gras.
The History: Roots of Mardi Gras
New Orleans: When it comes to Mardi Gras origins, New Orleans has the upper hand. The city’s Mardi Gras dates back to French colonial times, with the first recorded celebrations occurring in the early 18th century. Rooted in Catholic traditions, Mardi Gras in New Orleans was influenced by European Carnival customs. Over the centuries, it has evolved into the grand, colorful spectacle we know today, with parades led by elaborate krewes, masquerade balls, and a rich array of local traditions, including the infamous King Cake and bead-throwing.
St. Louis: While it might seem like a newcomer compared to New Orleans, St. Louis’ Mardi Gras has its own unique history. With French roots similar to New Orleans, St. Louis began celebrating Mardi Gras in earnest during the 1980s in the historic Soulard neighborhood, an area known for its French heritage and lively bars. Though its Mardi Gras origins are more modern, the festival has grown exponentially and now rivals many larger, more established celebrations around the world.
Verdict: New Orleans’ deep historical ties to Mardi Gras give it an undeniable edge in this category. You can’t beat centuries of tradition, but St. Louis deserves recognition for its ability to cultivate a vibrant, growing celebration in a relatively short period.
The Parades: Showstoppers of the Season
Mardi Gras in St. Louis | Photographer Credit: visitmo.com
New Orleans: New Orleans’ parades are iconic and essential to its Mardi Gras experience. These grand spectacles feature floats designed by local krewes, with themes that range from whimsical to political satire. The city hosts more than 70 parades, with the largest and most famous including Rex, Zulu, and Endymion. Floats are elaborate works of art, often with intricate lighting and massive designs that dazzle crowds lining the streets. Each krewe member has their own tradition of throwing beads, cups, and other trinkets to spectators, and catching them has become a hallmark of the Mardi Gras experience.
St. Louis: St. Louis’ parades, while smaller in scale, pack a punch. The Grand Parade, the largest in the region, winds its way through the Soulard neighborhood, featuring floats, bands, and thousands of revelers. Known for its spirited crowd, the St. Louis Mardi Gras parade is a raucous event that attracts visitors from across the Midwest. The event’s size may not match New Orleans, but the energy is just as high, and parade-goers are treated to bead tosses, costumed marchers, and festive floats.
Verdict: When it comes to sheer spectacle, New Orleans wins this round. The magnitude and artistry of its parades set it apart, but St. Louis makes up for size with heart, offering a more intimate, yet equally fun, parade experience.
The Parties: Where to Let Loose
New Orleans: If there’s one thing New Orleans knows how to do, it’s throw a party. From Bourbon Street to Frenchmen Street, the city comes alive during Mardi Gras with block parties, concerts, and events spanning every inch of the city. The French Quarter is a nonstop celebration, with bars overflowing, live music on nearly every corner, and streets packed with people in costumes. The bars and clubs along Bourbon Street are legendary, while nearby neighborhoods like the Marigny offer a more laid-back but equally vibrant party scene. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is an immersive experience that draws party-goers of all types, from families to those seeking an all-night extravaganza.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans | Photographer Credit: Gerald Herbert / AP
St. Louis: While New Orleans is the undisputed king of Mardi Gras parties, St. Louis is no slouch. The Soulard neighborhood, home to the city’s Mardi Gras festivities, is brimming with bars and clubs that throw massive street parties during the celebration. Live music, local brews, and a bustling crowd make for a lively experience that spills into the streets. St. Louis offers a more condensed party atmosphere, but it’s one that rivals the best of New Orleans in terms of energy and excitement. The annual Bud Light Party Tent in Soulard has become an iconic event, drawing thousands for music, dancing, and revelry.
Verdict: It’s hard to top New Orleans in this category—Bourbon Street alone tips the scale. However, for those looking for a concentrated party scene without the overwhelming crowds, St. Louis offers an experience that’s equally wild but with a more accessible vibe.
Family-Friendly vs. Adult-Only
New Orleans: Despite its party-centric reputation, New Orleans Mardi Gras is a family affair, especially outside of the French Quarter. Many neighborhoods, such as Uptown, offer more family-friendly parades and activities where kids can participate in catching beads, and the focus is on fun rather than adult revelry. However, the French Quarter is definitely an adult-only zone during Mardi Gras, where things can get wild.
St. Louis: St. Louis’ Mardi Gras also offers family-friendly options, particularly during the “Purina Pet Parade” and the “Children’s Parade.” These events allow families to participate in the fun while keeping things G-rated. However, after dark, the Soulard neighborhood transforms into an adult-centric party zone, with bars and clubs catering to an older crowd.
Verdict: Both cities strike a balance between family fun and adult entertainment, but New Orleans’ scale and variety give it the edge. It’s possible to experience both sides of the coin in New Orleans, depending on where you go.
The Food & Culture: Beyond Beads and Parades
New Orleans: The cultural richness of New Orleans extends far beyond Mardi Gras. The city is known for its Creole and Cajun cuisine, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets becoming synonymous with the Mardi Gras experience. Eating your way through the festival is part of the charm, and the vibrant music scene—especially jazz and brass bands—adds to the festive atmosphere. New Orleans’ multicultural roots make it a destination for those looking to immerse themselves in a celebration that blends French, African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences.
St. Louis: While it can’t match New Orleans in terms of culinary traditions, St. Louis brings its own flavor to Mardi Gras. Expect plenty of regional eats, like toasted ravioli, St. Louis-style BBQ, and gooey butter cake. Soulard’s bars offer up a variety of local craft beers, and the city’s unique mix of Midwestern and French Creole culture shines through during the festival.
Verdict: There’s no contest here—New Orleans takes the crown. The city’s rich cultural history, music, and food make Mardi Gras a feast for the senses, while St. Louis offers a strong but smaller-scale experience.
The Final Verdict
So, which city does Mardi Gras better? It’s a tough call, as both cities have something special to offer. If you’re looking for the granddaddy of all Mardi Gras celebrations with centuries of history, unmatched parades, and an all-encompassing party atmosphere, New Orleans is your go-to destination. However, if you want a slightly more relaxed, yet still vibrant and fun-filled Mardi Gras experience without the overwhelming crowds, St. Louis is a fantastic alternative, especially for those living in the Midwest.
In the end, it’s less about which city is better and more about what kind of experience you’re after. Both New Orleans and St. Louis know how to throw a party—and whether you’re catching beads in the Big Easy or toasting a local brew in Soulard, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable Mardi Gras.