As New Orleans gets ready for its claim to fame—the annual Mardi Gras extravaganza—another festival is taking root in the city.

King Cake Festival is here to celebrate one of the most treasured and delicious Mardi Gras traditions. The festival takes place Jan. 29 in Champions Square at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and has no entry fees. To kick off the festival, Smoothie King is hosting two athletic events: a Fun Run and a more strenuous 4.5K Gladiator Run, with prizes for top finishers and best costumes.

After the races are over, indulge in your sweet tooth by tasting dozens of king cakes supplied by local bakeries. The Buttermilk Drop, Bywater Bakery, Sweet Savors and even Tulane University’s very own HK Nola are only a few of the many vendors involved in this annual event. The king cakes will be crowned with titles ranging from “Most Unique” to “Most Likely to Replace a Meal.” For those looking to start their 2017 Mardi Gras on a sweet note, King Cake Festival should definitely be on their list.

This year marks the fourth annual King Cake Festival, which is put on by Oschner Hospital for Children. For those looking to start their 2017 Mardi Gras on a sweet note, King Cake Festival should definitely be on their list.