Mardi Gras Columbia returns Saturday, Feb. 14 at City Roots with its largest lineup yet, featuring 19 all-local bands across three stages. 

There was a moment in the middle of the day last year at Mardi Gras Columbia where everything was just perfect. One of the first truly beautiful afternoons of the year — wind whipping, planes humming across the sky from nearby Owens Field, and Abita flowing freely.

You never quite know what February is going to give you in Columbia. Sometimes it’s a false spring. Sometimes it’s six more weeks of cold, just like Punxsutawney Phil warned. When the weather’s nice, it’s magic — but even when it’s not, the fun still finds a way.

Our community shines at Mardi Gras Columbia in a way few other festivals manage. Kids running around. Friendly faces you haven’t seen all winter. Great food. Even better company. For about 10 minutes, I just stood there watching Admiral Radio — decked out in purple and gold — playing to a packed crowd, everyone singing along, smiling ear to ear. I tried to take it all in and lock that feeling away.

This festival, in all its community-first glory, is the blueprint for me. Homegrown. From the heart. Built by people who genuinely want to do something special for Columbia. No massive corporations skimming sales. No ticket fees or tax dollars muddying the waters. Mardi Gras Columbia asks only one thing of you: show up and have a good time.

And with it landing on Valentine’s Day this year? Let’s just say the libido — and the Abita — will both be flowing. It is Mardi Gras, after all.