New Events at the 2009 Soulard Mardi Gras

The biggest Mardi Gras celebration in St. Louis is getting even bigger. In 2009, Soulard Mardi Gras is celebrating its 30th anniversary. That means several new events for those who want to do a little extra celebrating.

Family Winter Carnival - Bring the whole family to Soulard Market Park for a day of fun in a giant heated tent. Kids can make their own Mardi Gras costumes and masks. There will be food from Joanie's Pizzeria and performances from the Muny Kids and Radio Disney. At the end of the day, young revelers are invited to join the Children's Parade where kids can march through Soulard wearing their Mardi Gras colors.
January 31, 2009
11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Soulard Market Park

Wheelin' & Dealin' Poker Ride - Anyone with a bicycle, wagon, scooter or other non-motorized vehicle is invited to the Mardi Gras Poker Ride. Make your way to any of the participating Soulard bars and restaurants and buy a drink to receive your card. Move on to the next place until you have a five card hand. The person with the best hand at the end of the ride wins. There is also a costume contest. Costume winners get to ride their bikes in the Grand Parade. The cost is $8 per rider.
January 31, 2009
Noon - 4 p.m.
Starts at 8th and Lafayette Streets

Schlafly Aleympics - The Aleympics test the skill of even the most accomplished beer drinker. Bars and restaurants around St. Louis are holding competitions each Thursday night in Cup Stacking, Coaster Tossing and Doubloons (a Mardi-Gras version of quarters). Winners will compete in the finals in Soulard after the Grand Parade. Gold medal winners receive a year's supply of Schlafly beer!
Thursdays through February 19, 2009
Various Locations

Monster Mixology - Bartenders from around St. Louis show off their talents in a competition to create the best cocktail and shot. The first place winner gets $500 cash. To be in the competition, you must e-mail your shot or cocktail recipe to monster@mardigrasinc.com by February 9, 2009.
February 16, 2009
8:30 p.m.
Paddy O's
618 South 7th Street