Mardi Gras in the Spa

Welcome to Mardi Gras in the Spa, Hot Springs’ newest annual festival bringing the color, music, culture, and excitement of Mardi Gras to the heart of downtown. On February 15, 2026, the Bridge Street Entertainment District transforms into a vibrant celebration packed with food, music, parades, entertainment, and community spirit. This is not just another event — it’s a party with purpose, blending New Orleans–style fun with Hot Springs hospitality, all while raising money to support the Jackson House and the work they do for our local community. For more information, click here .   Mardi Gras in the Spa – A Day Full of Music, Magic & Beads From the moment the gates open until the final note is played, Mardi Gras in the Spa is alive with music, movement, costumes, and surprises. Whether you’re here for beads, bands, kids’ activities, or just the vibe—you’ll find something happening every moment of the day. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 12:00 PM – Gates Open The gates swing open and the party begins! DJ music sets the tone as guests arrive, grab food and drinks, explore sponsor tents, and line the streets in anticipation. Beads & throws will be available throughout the day, not just during the procession. Many sponsor tents will be handing out beads and fun throw items, so keep your eyes open and your hands ready! Kids activities—including face painting, small games, and interactive fun—will be mixed in all day long 12:45 PM – Mardi Gras Procession The celebration officially kicks into high gear as the Hot Springs World Class High School Marching Band leads a festive procession from Spring Street on Malvern Avenue to the main entertainment area at Bridge Street & Malvern Avenue. Following the band: Children in costume (with parents welcome to join) Costumed participants distributing beads to the crowd This is one of the best bead-catching moments of the day, so find a good spot! Behind them: King & Queen Procession Our King and Queen will follow, handing out beads and special throws—including a few commemorative beads mixed in for lucky guests. Once the procession arrives: The marching band performs King & Queen Crowning Ceremony A special dance by our newly crowned royalty It’s a true Mardi Gras moment—full of pageantry, music, and celebration. 1:30 PM – Spa City Tappers Take the Stage The Spa City Tappers light up the stage with a high-energy performance Presented by Justin Nicklas for Coroner 1:45 PM – Pet Costume Contest Get ready for adorable overload! Our Pet Costume Contest is conducted by Dr. Brian Peters of Lake Hamilton and Hot Springs Animal Hospitals 2:00 PM – Live Music Begins The Joe Beasley Experience takes the stage, bringing a lively mix of jazz, zydeco, Dixieland, and crowd-pleasing favorites. While the music plays, kids’ activities continue, sponsor tents stay active, and beads keep flying. 2:45 PM – Intermission Fun Spa City Tappers Performance Presented by Justin Nicklas for Coroner Kids Costume Contest (Ages 12 & Under) Presented by Magic Springs 3:00 PM – Joe Beasley Experience Returns More music, more dancing, more reasons to stay put and soak it all in. 3:45 PM – Teen Costume Contest Spa City Tappers Performance Presented by Justin Nicklas for Coroner Teen Costume Contest (Ages 13–18) Presented by Magic Springs 4:00 PM – Live Music Continues The Joe Beasley Experience keeps the energy rolling as we head into the final stretch of the day. 4:45 PM – Adult Costume Contest Adult Costume Contest (Ages 18+) Presented by Magic Springs 5:00 PM – Final Live Music Set The Joe Beasley Experience takes the stage one last time, carrying us through the close of the celebration. Closing Moments A brief thank-you and “see you next year” message from the Mardi Gras in the Spa team, and we wrap up an unforgettable first year. From beads and bands to costumes, contests, kids’ activities, and surprises around every corner—there’s something for everyone, all day long. So grab your costume, bring your friends, and come experience Mardi Gras in the Spa. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Places to Stay Places to Eat Things to Do Events to Attend Careers Contact Us Media Room Advertising and Promotion Tax Privacy Policy Customize Your Itinerary 134 Convention Boulevard · Hot Springs, AR 71901 501-321-2277 or 1-800-SPA-CITY · hscvb@hotsprings.org Back to Top