Planning Your Night of Elegance and Excitement
Mark your calendar for February 21, 6:00–10:00 pm, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of the Eureka Springs Mardi Gras Coronation Ball at the historic Crescent Hotel. This isn’t just another masked ball—it’s the pinnacle of the season, where Mardi Gras royalty is officially crowned amid crystal chandeliers, jewel-toned draperies, and the electric buzz of live jazz. Doors open with a festive happy hour at 6:00 pm, setting the stage for the grand Coronation ceremony at 7:00 pm. If you want full event details or to secure your spot, visit the official Visit Eureka Springs event page .
The Rich Tradition of Eureka Springs Mardi Gras
Long after New Orleans packs away its beads, Eureka Springs keeps the carnival flames burning bright. Since the early 1990s, local krewes have transformed this Ozark town into a haven of parades, masked balls, and riverboat-style celebrations. The Coronation Ball, organized by the Krewe of Krazo, blends Southern hospitality with old-world grandeur. To explore the full schedule—parades, concerts, and parties—check the Eureka Springs Mardi Gras official site and the Mardi Gras events calendar for February 22 .
Why the Crescent Hotel is the Perfect Venue
Perched above Spring Street since 1886, the Crescent Hotel is steeped in Victorian elegance—and a few ghost stories for daring souls. Its grand ballroom, complete with soaring ceilings and period-appropriate moldings, provides an unforgettable backdrop for the Coronation ceremony. As you arrive:
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You’ll pass under a canopy of beads and feathered masks in the historic lobby.
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A live brass ensemble will serenade you toward the grand ballroom.
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You’ll witness the presentation of the King and Queen of Mardi Gras, followed by a formal toast to community spirit.
The Crescent’s blend of old-world charm and modern comfort ensures both style and ease throughout the evening.
What to Expect at the Coronation Ball
Dress Code & Attire
Think black-tie meets Mardi Gras. Floor-length gowns in purple, green, and gold; tailored tuxedos with colorful cummerbunds; and of course, elaborate masks—bejeweled, feathered, or hand-painted. Many guests add themed accessories like capes or scepters to fully embrace the royal atmosphere.
Entertainment & Music
A live New Orleans–style jazz band will play classic standards and modern interpretations, keeping the dance floor packed. Professional dance instructors will lead a brief waltz tutorial before opening the floor to all attendees—so don those dancing shoes!
Culinary Delights
Indulge in a plated Southern-inspired menu:
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Hors d’Oeuvres: Mini shrimp remoulade, Creole-spiced jambalaya bites
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Entrée: Herb-roasted chicken with andouille sausage or vegetarian ratatouille
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Dessert: Freshly made beignets and King Cake slices with local berry compote
A full open bar will serve signature Mardi Gras cocktails and non-alcoholic mocktails.
Why a Eureka Rocket Tour Complements Your Coronation Ball Experience
Attending the Coronation Ball is a highlight; pairing it with a Eureka Rocket Tour turns your weekend into an all-around Eureka Springs adventure. Here’s why you should book both:
Glide Through Town in Our Iconic Red Rocket
Eureka Rocket Tours isn’t your average trolley. Climb aboard our custom-built, rocket-shaped coach for panoramic windows, comfortable bench seating, and real-time narration by local historians. You’ll trace the town’s:
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Silver-rush roots and mining boom
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Victorian architecture sprinkled across winding hills
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Ghostly legends and haunted hotspots
Learn more about this one-of-a-kind ride on The Experience.
Seamless Transportation—Day & Night
After a night of dancing and celebration, let us chauffeur you back to your hotel. Our hop-on/hop-off service runs late and lets you:
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Avoid downtown parking headaches
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Link multiple Mardi Gras events without driving
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Stay safe and fully immerse yourself in the festivities
Check out our service tiers and group rates on the Pricing page.
Discover Hidden Gems Between Events
Our expert guides know Eureka Springs inside out. Between the Ball and the Night Parade on February 22, you can:
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Snap photos at hidden viewpoints like the Basin Spring Bathhouse ruins
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Explore Crescent Hotel’s secret garden by moonlight
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Pop into local speakeasies for surprise acoustic sessions
For more budget-friendly outdoor stops, see our blog post on Top 25 Outdoor Activities in Arkansas for Under $40.
Sample Mardi Gras Weekend Itinerary
Friday Evening
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Check-in & Cocktails: Settle into your downtown hotel, then head to the Basin Park Inn for pre-Mardi Gras drinks and light bites.
Saturday Morning
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Historic Town Loop: Board an early “Historic Highlights” rocket tour—cruise Spring Street, Basin Spring Park, and see the Crescent’s exterior glow in morning light.
Saturday Afternoon
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Lunch & Shopping: Wander Spring Street’s boutiques, then grab a hearty sandwich at Mud Street Café.
Saturday Evening
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Coronation Ball: Attend the Ball at the Crescent Hotel (happy hour at 6:00 pm; Coronation at 7:00 pm).
Saturday Night
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Night Lights Tour: After the Ball, climb aboard a late-night rocket ride to see illuminated landmarks and enjoy post-parade energy without the crowds.
Sunday Morning
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Brunch & Farewell Tour: Cap off your trip with our “Brunch & Views” tour—sip mimosas as you revisit favorite spots, ending at Christ of the Ozarks for a final photo.
To reserve your tours, head to our Our Services page or fill out a request on our Contact form.
Booking & Preparation Tips
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Secure Your Tickets Early: Mardi Gras weekend books fast—purchase Ball tickets via the Visit Eureka Springs event page and Rocket Tour seats on our site.
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Plan Your Route: Use the Mardi Gras events calendar to align parades, balls, and concerts with your Rocket stops.
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Dress for the Weather: February in Eureka Springs can be chilly—layer up under your ball gown or tux for daytime excursions.
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Accessibility: Our rockets are wheelchair accessible. Note needs when booking on our FAQ page.
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Health & Safety: We follow local guidelines for sanitation and distancing. Feel free to bring masks for indoor segments.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Coronation Ball’s timeline?
Happy hour begins at 6:00 pm at the Crescent Hotel; the formal Coronation starts at 7:00 pm .
Q2: Can I take the Rocket Tour after the Ball?
Yes—our “Night Lights” tours depart shortly after 10:00 pm. Check times on Pricing.
Q3: Do I need separate tickets?
Ball tickets come from the Mardi Gras site; Rocket tickets book directly on EurekaRocket.com.
Q4: Are there group discounts?
Yes—groups of six or more save on per-seat rates. Inquire via our Contact form.
Q5: What Mardi Gras events follow the Ball?
Don’t miss the Night Parade on February 22 at 6:00 pm along Spring Street .
Make Your Mardi Gras Unforgettable’
The Coronation Ball at the Crescent Hotel is the crown jewel of Eureka Springs Mardi Gras, but pairing it with a Eureka Rocket Tour transforms your weekend into a total immersion of history, mystery, and high-spirited fun. From the stately Ballroom to the winding Ozark streets, your trip will be a seamless blend of glamour and genuine southern hospitality.
👉 Ready to book?
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Ball Tickets: Get them via the Visit Eureka Springs event page
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Rocket Tours: Reserve online on our Our Services page or ask questions on our Contact page.
Don your finest mask, hop aboard our red rocket, and let Eureka Springs show you a Mardi Gras weekend you’ll talk about for years to come.