Mardi Gras Parades and Broadway Soul: Your St. Louis Sunday Guide

A Vibrant Sunday in the Gateway City

St. Louis is buzzing with energy this Sunday, February 8, 2026, offering a diverse array of activities ranging from the high-spirited celebrations of Mardi Gras to world-class theatrical performances. Whether you are looking for family-friendly fun, a taste of local history, or the soothing sights of blooming orchids, the city has something special in store for you today.

Soulard Mardi Gras Festivities

The historic Soulard neighborhood takes center stage today with some of the season's most beloved traditions. Don't miss these highlights:

• Purina Pet Parade: Starting at 1:00 PM at 12th and Allen, witness the Guinness World Record holder for the largest costumed pet parade. Thousands of festive four-legged friends will strut through the streets in their finest Mardi Gras attire.
• Wiener Dog Derby: Head over to Soulard Market Park at 2:00 PM for the nation’s longest-running dachshund race. It is a hilarious and unpredictable spectacle as dozens of dachshunds compete for glory.
• Taste of Soulard: From 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, embark on a self-guided savory tour of the neighborhood. With a voucher booklet, you can sample signature Cajun dishes and specialty drinks at various participating local establishments.

Theater and Stage Performances

For those seeking the magic of the stage, today features several high-profile productions:

• Hell’s Kitchen: The Fabulous Fox Theatre hosts a 1:00 PM performance of this Tony Award-winning musical inspired by Alicia Keys. It is a soulful coming-of-age story set to the rhythm of 90s New York.
• Primary Trust: Catch a 2:00 PM showing of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Eboni Booth at the Loretto-Hilton Center. This heartwarming drama explores themes of friendship and new beginnings.
• Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party: Perfect for families, the Enterprise Center offers performances at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Join Mickey and friends for a high-flying adventure featuring world-class skating and acrobatics.

Museums and Public Exhibitions

Spend your afternoon exploring the rich culture and nature of St. Louis through these unique exhibits:

• The Orchid Show: The Missouri Botanical Garden is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, showcasing thousands of blooming orchids in a breathtaking display of color and fragrance.
• Cycle Showcase STL: Motorcycle enthusiasts should visit The Pageant between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to view historically significant and hand-crafted two-wheeled works of art.
• Begin Again: 50 Years and Counting: Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Laumeier Sculpture Park with this expansive exhibition available from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, featuring rarely seen works from the park’s collection.

Community Meetups and Music

End your day with local history or smooth jazz. Join the "Iconic Conversations" series at the Old Courthouse at 2:00 PM for a free talk on Lincoln and Douglas. Later, wind down at the bar "None of the Above" starting at 8:00 PM for a night of live jazz and curated DJ sets to cap off a perfect St. Louis Sunday.