If you’re planning Mardi Gras 2026 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, you’ll find a celebration that blends color, creativity, and community—set against the historic charm of this Ozark mountain town. With parades, masked balls, and Valentine’s Day festivities, Eureka Springs offers Mardi Gras fun without the crowds of larger cities.
Just minutes from downtown, visitors can also experience something quieter and deeply memorable: a winter visit to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
Mardi Gras Weekend Highlights: February 13–14, 2026
The heart of Eureka Springs Mardi Gras takes place over Valentine’s Day weekend, making it an ideal getaway for couples and families alike.
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- Masquerade Ball at the Inn of the Ozarks
- The signature Mardi Gras Daytime Parade through historic downtown
- Valentine’s Day celebrations throughout the town
Local Mardi Gras Krewes, unique to Eureka Springs, host balls, build floats, and participate in events that give Eureka Springs its signature Mardi Gras character.
Winter at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Winter is an ideal time to visit Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, particularly during a Mardi Gras getaway.
In cooler temperatures, tigers are often more visible and moving throughout their habitats, offering visitors the opportunity to observe natural behaviors and enrichment activities.
Bobcats are well adapted to winter conditions, navigating their habitats with confidence and agility.
On clear winter days, lions are frequently seen resting in sunny areas, taking advantage of the warmth while remaining alert and observant.
To keep guests comfortable, blankets are provided on the tram, allowing visitors to stay warm and cozy while learning about the animals and their individual stories.
Stay Where the Wild Things Are
For visitors looking to extend their Mardi Gras weekend, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers on-site lodging that turns a trip into a full experience.
- Adult Safari Lodging provides a peaceful, immersive stay, complete with a private deck featuring a hot tub and fire pit—ideal for relaxing on a crisp winter evening after a day of parades or a sanctuary tour.
- Family Suites offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to stay in rooms that adjoin a big cat habitat, giving families a front-row connection to the animals while maintaining appropriate distance and safety.
Whether you’re visiting as a couple celebrating Valentine’s Day or traveling with children eager to learn about wildlife, TCWR lodging allows you to experience the Refuge at a slower, more meaningful pace.
A Thoughtful Addition to Your Mardi Gras Getaway
Eureka Springs makes it easy to combine celebration and reflection. After the excitement of downtown Mardi Gras festivities, a visit to the Refuge offers a quieter counterpoint—one rooted in conservation, education, and lifelong care for rescued animals.
Plan Your Mardi Gras 2026 Trip
Valentine’s Day weekend is one of the most popular times to visit Eureka Springs, and lodging fills quickly across town. Planning ahead allows you to enjoy the full Mardi Gras experience while adding a stay or visit to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
Come for the celebration. Stay for the connection—to the place, the mission, and the animals