April 23, 2024
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Join The Party At Utica’s Mardi Gras Celebration

Parade returns Saturday, Feb. 26

By Ryan Searl

Gators and beads were highlights Saturday of the 2018 Mardi Gras parade in Utica. The annual procession first started in 2005 to celebrate the time between Epiphany (Jan. 6) and Ash Wednesday (Feb. 14), before Lent.

Located just two minutes north of Starved Rock State Park, the village of North Utica is home to some of Starved Rock Country’s most exciting festivals and events throughout the year – including the return of the annual Mardi Gras Parade, happening this weekend. Here’s what you need to know before you visit the festive village.

Big fun comes to North Utica’s small downtown Saturday, Feb. 26. Starting at 4 p.m., the Mardi Gras festivities will kick off with an exciting, family-friendly parade.

Kevin Benz of Lacon reaches up to catch a jumbo string of beads Saturday on Mill Street at the annual Utica Mardi Gras Parade. Over 100 people braved the cold for a chance to catch beads and enjoy the festivities. (Scott Anderson)

The downtown route will be lined with festival goers vying for beads and catching candy thrown from elaborately decorated floats. Expect to see some impressive Mardi Gras masks and costumes on display, both in the parade and from those spectating.

Utica’s take on Mardi Gras is a family-friendly affair, with floats representing area businesses and community organizations. Past years have seen appearances by local first responders and Utica’s own link to Creole culture, the famed Cajun Connection restaurant at 2958 Route 178 in North Utica.

A person in an alligator costume tosses beads to to the crowd from The Cajun Connection’s gator-themed float Saturday at the Utica Mardi Gras Parade.

The Utica Business Association hosts the fun-filled night, which launches at the south end of town and ends in the downtown area. Local restaurants will offer limited-time Mardi Gras food and drink specials and free live entertainment.

After you grab some food and a craft beverage, visit downtown Utica’s boutique shops – several of which will offer special late shopping hours following the parade. So be sure to take a walk around Mill Street to see what Mardi Gras bargains you can find.

(Scott Anderson)

While you’re in the village, pay a visit to the brand new Heritage Corridor Welcome Center, just a short walk from bustling Mill Street. The brand new informational center’s Illinois Made Gift Shoppe features a curated selection of items created by Illinois makers and artisans, alongside all the useful guides and brochures you need to plan your stay in Starved Rock Country. The Welcome Center at 248 W. Canal St. is open to the public from noon to 6 p.m., and is closed Tuesdays through the end of March.