Photos and Videos from Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022

As the T-shirt says, Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 at Universal Studios Florida is louder, wilder, and spicier. This is certainly true if you consider the last two years of the shortened event due to the pandemic. This year’s event is back full force, with new foods, a new theme, and some brand new floats and costumes.

Universal’s Mardi Gras 2022 Full Report

Here’s our report from the first night off the event, including interviews and a look around:

Parade

This year’s original parade theme is “Planet Mardi Gras,” which comes with six new detailed floats that fuse Mardi Gras with cosmic-inspired elements like comets, rockets, martians, and more — and, of course, guests will be able to catch beads by the handful.

These new floats join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats, like the Jester and nearly 50-foot-long King Gator, as they wind through the streets of Universal Studios Florida with dozens of character performers in tow. Here’s our video of the first parade this year:

Concerts

All concerts take place at the Music Plaza stage, set against the backdrop of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Here’s the upcoming lineup:

Foods

Universal’s award-winning chefs will bring an array of eats to this year’s event, inspired by various locations from around the world. These dishes include Crawfish Boil and Beignets from New Orleans, Coconut Curry Shrimp Laska from Southeast Asia, Vegan Samosa with spicy green chutney from India, and Salchipapas from Central America. Hear from one of Universal’s chef’s in our video report above. See photos in our gallery below.

Shopping

In addition to merchandise being available all around property, this year’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store has a brand-new theme, “Float Factory Warehouse.” Upon entering, guests travel through four themed rooms that visually depict the creative process of bringing a parade float to life — from pencil sketches and scale models to parade décor and an actual, full-size Mardi Gras float. Here’s a look inside:

Universal’s Mardi Gras is included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with an Annual or Seasonal Pass (though blockout dates do apply). This family-friendly version of the iconic Big Easy bash runs through April 24, 2022. The parade runs every night (except April 1, 2, and 8). To learn more, and to plan your visit during the event, head to UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.

Photo Gallery