Universal Orlando is cutting a week from Mardi Gras in 2027
Orlando, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort has revealed the first dates for its 2027 Mardi Gras celebration, and guests will have less time to let the good times roll next year.
Photo by bioreconstruct
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will return to Universal Studios Florida from Feb. 6 through March 27, 2027, according to dates announced by Universal Orlando.
Universal Orlando Mardi Gras starts in February 2027
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will return to Universal Studios Florida from Feb. 6 through March 27, 2027, according to dates announced by Universal Orlando.
The annual celebration typically brings a nightly Mardi Gras parade, international food and drinks, live entertainment and concerts on select nights to Universal Studios Florida.
Mardi Gras 2027 is scheduled for only 50 days, a full week shorter than the 57-day event held in 2026.
The earlier ending does line up with Easter, which falls on March 28 in 2027. Mardi Gras ends the day before, just as it did in 2026. Past events have not always followed that pattern.
How 2027 Mardi Gras dates compare with past years
The 2027 schedule is also shorter than each of the previous three Universal Mardi Gras celebrations.
| Year | Mardi Gras dates | Calendar days |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Feb. 3-April 7 | 65 days |
| 2025 | Feb. 1-March 30 | 58 days |
| 2026 | Feb. 7-April 4 | 57 days |
| 2027 | Feb. 6-March 27 | 50 days |
Looking farther back, a 50-day Mardi Gras celebration is not unprecedented. Universal’s 2017 event also ran for 50 consecutive days, while the celebration expanded to 64 days in 2018 before dropping to 55 days in 2019.
Photo by Attractions Magazine
In 2024, Universal Mardi Gras ran for 65 days, continuing for a week after Easter Sunday. The following year’s celebration was shorter, running 58 days from Feb. 1 through March 30, 2025. Easter did not arrive until April 20 that year.
The 2027 concert lineup, parade details, menus and more are still to come. Stay tuned to Attractions Magazine for the latest announcements and tips to help you make the most of this shorter Mardi Gras celebration.
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