SoMardi Gras 2026!
SoMardi Gras VIP Pre-Party
Friday, February 20, 2026
6 – 9 p.m.
16th SoMardi Gras Parade and Street Festival
Saturday, February 21, 2026
10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Orleans-style parade at noon – Route 22nd to 12th on Main
Street festival with live music, dozens of small businesses, vendors, restaurants, food trucks and a kid zone!
13th Annual Beard and Mustache Contest
13th BEARD and Mustache CONTEST
🧔✨ What’s It About?
This event is all about celebrating creativity, self-expression, and the camaraderie of facial hair enthusiasts. Whether you’re competing or just cheering from the sidelines, it’s a day filled with community spirit and unforgettable moments.
📅 When: February 21st, 2026
📍 Where: The Bernice Garden
🏆 Categories:
Best Natural Beard Under 6”
Best Natural Beard Over 6”
Best Groomed Beard
Best Mustache
Most Original Beard
Best Partial Beard
Best DIY Crafted Beard (Women & Kids!)
Pre-register for the beard contest!
SoMardi Gras Hotel Block Available
Need a place to stay? Book your spot in our block of rooms at the AC Hotel Little Rock, and you’ll get two tickets to the pre-party included! It's the perfect way to stay close to all the action and start the weekend off with a bang.
Get Involved!
Coming Soon - Register as a Vendor
Showcase your products and join the fun! As a vendor at SoMardi Gras, you'll be part of a lively and energetic event, attracting a diverse crowd. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with thousands of attendees.
Coming Soon - Register Your Float
Get creative and join the parade with a float that fits the disco theme! Whether it’s funky, fabulous, or funky fabulous, your float will be a standout feature of the parade, and a chance to showcase your team’s spirit.
Sponsor Now
Make a lasting impact and become a sponsor for SoMardi Gras 2026. Whether you're a small business or a big brand, sponsorship offers unique opportunities to engage with a dynamic audience while supporting a great cause.
Coming soon - Register as a Volunteer
Want to be part of the action? Volunteers are the heartbeat of SoMardi Gras.
Help us create a memorable experience for everyone. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while making a difference in the community.