The History of the Parade

America's Birthday Parade, first took place on October 8, 1878, and it has become one of St. Louis’ most enduring family traditions. The first parade was modeled after the New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration. In the early years, floats from New Orleans were shipped to St. Louis by steamboat. Today’s colorful and imaginative floats are conceived and created right here in St. Louis by some of the best artists and craftsmen.