Soulard Mardi Gras replaces carnival with online contest due to COVID

ST. LOUIS – The latest increase in COVID-19 cases has prompted Soulard Mardi Gras organizers to change another aspect of the annual event. Family Winter Carnival, originally scheduled for January 22, has been canceled and will be replaced with an online competition.

Organizers say the carnival is a family-focused event that often attracts children of all ages, many of whom are not eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations. Additionally, some vendors are also facing staffing challenges, which has contributed to the event’s cancellation.

Instead, there will be an online contest where kids can create floating mini Mardi Gras out of shoeboxes. They can submit their creations online for a chance to win a prize:

• 1st place: Four visits to St Louis’ Aquarium
• 2nd place: Four visits to St Louis . Ferris Wheel
• 3rd Place: $50 Gift Certificate for St. Louis Union Station

As a special treat, each participating child can receive a free Sugarcane Farming Combo Box. The deadline for entries is midnight on January 31. For more details visit: https://stlmardigras.org/events/family-winter-carnival.

“Currently, dozens of shoeboxes have been decorated in the regal Mardi Gras style by children at Soulard School and Gene Slays Boys and Girls Club, and we look forward to witnessing the creations children,” said Nancy Lambert, host of the Family Winter Festival.

Contest entries and winners will be featured on stlmardigras.org.