Airport funding, Mardi Gras and Polar Plunge make for a busy Texarkana weekend
Texarkana, AR — February 7, 2026 — Federal funds boost Texarkana Regional Airport as Mardi Gras, Polar Plunge and a packed live music lineup fill the weekend.
Airport lands $11 million for runway upgrades
Texarkana Regional Airport is getting a major boost, with $11 million in new federal funding to improve the airfield on the Arkansas side of town. Local and federal leaders say the money will help widen an existing taxiway and convert an older runway into a taxiway, opening the door for larger aircraft and expanded operations.
Airport officials describe the grant as the final piece of a multi phase runway project that now totals about $62 million in investment. The upgrades are designed to support future maintenance and repair facilities at the airport, which could add new aviation jobs and bring more traffic and business into the region over the next several years.
Mardi Gras fills downtown Texarkana today
Downtown streets are turning purple, green and gold for the 2026 Mardi Gras Parade and day long festival at Front Street Plaza. Festivities run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with food vendors, kids activities and live entertainment throughout the day. The main parade is scheduled to roll at 3 p.m., and organizers emphasize that the celebration is family friendly and free to attend.
Polar Plunge returns for Special Olympics Arkansas
Before the beads start flying, many residents will brave icy water at the Polar Plunge fundraiser at Big Dam Waterpark. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with participants taking the plunge at 10 a.m. The event was postponed after a recent ice storm, but volunteers and supporters quickly reset plans so the annual tradition could still raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Arkansas athletes.
Full weekend of live music and nightlife
Local bands and touring acts round out the weekend, with multiple stages booked across Texarkana on both Friday and Saturday night. From country and rock to tribute performances, venues on both sides of State Line Avenue are promoting full lineups to carry residents from Mardi Gras festivities into Super Bowl Sunday. If you are heading out, plan for heavier traffic downtown and around popular music spots.
