🟣🟢💛 Let the good times roll at the SoMardi Gras VIP Pre-Party 💛🟢🟣

Kick off SoMardi Gras weekend in style at our VIP Pre-Party on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Rock Town Distillery, located at 1201 Main Street, Little Rock, AR 72202.

This exclusive evening includes:

🎷 Celebrity DJ Nick Hud
🍹 Two complimentary drinks
🕺 Dazzling performers from Arkansas Circus Arts
🎉 Voting on the 2026 SoMardi Gras Royal Court
🎨 Raise money for the SoMa Bench Public Art Project

See the Team Members above? Wondering what's going on with that? Bow down, because they are future SoMardi Gras Royal Court members! Help us VOTE on the SoMardi Gras Royal Court! Voting is open until February 28 at 7:30 p.m. and will be announced at the Pre-Party. The couples were nominated by peers and the court will be decided by the couples who have received the most donations.

In 2026, funds raised up to $10,000 will benefit the creation of the SoMa Bench, an interactive public art installation by Mahogany and Hyde and in conjunction with the Division of Arkansas Heritage matching Public Art Grant. The SoMa Bench will live at the 13th and Main intersection and be 12.5 feet long and 6 feet tall. We plan to have it incorporate a bike repair station.

Rendering of the SoMa Bench Public Art Project

If we raise more than $10,000, the funds will be applied to cover the expenses associated with SoMardi Gras 2026. If we raise over the actual SoMardi Gras expenses, funds will be applied to the SoMa 501 Design committee work plan, focusing on public art projects.

Need a place to stay? Book in our AC Hotel Little Rock Downtown room block and receive two tickets to the VIP Pre-Party with your reservation. Book your stay for February 20 to 22. When booking online or through the Bonvoy app, use promo code ROM under special rates.

The SoMardi Gras VIP Pre-Party is your backstage pass to the most festive weekend in Little Rock. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is your chance to eat, drink, dance, and support community art ahead of Saturday’s parade and street festival.

*Support for our music is provided, in part, by the Arkansas Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Arkansas Heritage, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

**This program was made possible in part by a grant from the Division of Arkansas Heritage, funded by your 1/8 cent conservation tax, Amendment 75.

SoMa 501 contributes to an eclectic and dynamic South Main Street by championing its economic interests, celebrating and protecting its history, and cultivating an exceptional downtown experience for all who come to live, work, play, and be in our vibrant, neighborly community. As a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, SoMa thrives with your support. Consider donating today!

SoMardi Gras LOVE VIP Pre-Party 2026

Help SoMa 501 raise money for public art – The SoMa Bench