Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration kicks off Saturday in Orlando
The good times will roll once again on Feb. 4, 2023, at Universal Studios Florida for Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.
Universal Orlando Resort’s annual Mardi Gras event will run daily through April 16, 2023, with cuisine inspired by global Carnaval celebrations, a colorful parade, live music, and more – and it’s all Included with admission to Universal Studios Florida or with an Annual or Seasonal Pass (blockout dates apply).
“Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” Parade
Guests can catch beads by the handful during the “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” parade – featuring six new floats inspired by fantastical creatures like dragons, phoenixes, and unicorns, which join Universal’s line-up of traditional New Orleans-inspired floats, including the iconic two-story Riverboat and nearly 50-foot-long King Gator.
They can even be part of the festivities by tossing beads to fellow partygoers when they purchase the new Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which includes a 3-course meal at one of four participating restaurants and one Mardi Gras parade float rider reservation.
Universal’s Mardi Gras Concert Line-up
Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration also includes live performances on select nights at the Music Plaza Stage.
- Feb. 4, 2023 – Patti LaBelle
- Feb. 10, 2023 – JVKE
- Feb. 11, 2023 – Goo Goo Dolls
- Feb. 18, 2023 – Maren Morris
- Feb. 19, 2023 – WILLOW
- Feb. 25, 2023 – 3 Doors Down
- March 4, 2023 – Sean Paul
- March 5, 2023 – Lauren Daigle
Universal’s Mardi Gras: Flavors of Carnaval Food & Beverages
The most delicious part of the celebration is an expansive menu of more than 50 tasting-sized items that showcase the flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans to Brazil to Belgium. Click here for the complete event menu.
Hungry Mardi Gras partygoers can save money with the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card, priced at $65 for a $75 card. In addition, Universal Orlando Passholders have exclusive access to a $150 card for only $120.
Mardi Gras Tribute Store
This year’s highly-immersive Mardi Gras Tribute Store (in an all-new space in the Hollywood area of the park) is themed as an international jazz celebration that leads through the traditional alleyways of New Orleans and ultimately into a speakeasy.
The Party Continues at Universal CityWalk
The party continues outside the park with special Mardi Gras menu items at select Universal CityWalk restaurants and food kiosks, including a new Masquerade Milkshake at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen.
Guests can also attend a Mardi Gras After Party at Pat O’Brien’s on select nights and enjoy special entertainment and theming at the Red Coconut Club, which transforms into the Cursed Coconut Club for the Mardi Gras season.
Click here for more information about Universal’s Mardi Gras.
