Want a family friendly way to celebrate Mardi Gras? Then head to Universal Orlando this February thru April. On select nights from February 4, 2023 - April 16, 2023 Universal Studios Florida celebrates Mardi Gras and the best part, it's included in your park admission!
Parade
The parade floats are built in partnership with Kern Studios, the same people that create the parade floats in New Orleans. Every year, there’s a new theme developed for the floats.
There are two ways to experience the parade: first as a Bead Catcher or second as a Bead Thrower. If you are a bead thrower then that means you get to ride on a float! This year Universal has rolled out a new process to sign up to ride on a float. You can sign up for a spot using the Virtual Line on The Official Universal Orlando Resort App. Or you can purchase the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience. For $64.99 per person get a reserved spot on a float to throw beads and a 3-course meal from one of the following restaurants; Finnegan's Bar & Grill or Lombard's Seafood Grill at Universal Florida or Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar or NBC Sports Grill & Bar at City Walk.
Live Concerts
On select nights at the Music Plaza Stage you can watch a concert from some of music's biggest artists. The line up hasn't been announced yet for 2023 but earlier this year it featured Sugar Ray, Barenaked Ladies, Diana Ross, LL Cool J, Seal and Jason Derulo.
French Quarter Courtyard Entertainment
In the New York area of Universal Studios experience live music from real Louisiana jazz and zydeco bands. You can even dance and take pictures with the Mardi Gras performers.
Mardi Gras Tribute Store
This version of the tribute store will take you through the Mardi Gras experience and sells themed merchandise to purchase like beads, masks and T-shirts. Plus as always there are great photo ops through the store.
Food
It wouldn't be Mardi Gras without traditional Cajun fare! Head to French Quarter Courtyard for jambalaya, gumbo and beignets.
After Party
And if you are not ready for the party to end head to City Walk! Purchase a Mardi Gras themed Voodoo Doughnut or over to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium or Pat O’Brien’s dueling piano bar for some post park time fun. And remember mobile order is available on the official Universal Orlando parks app as long as you have an account and a valid credit card entered.
If you are ready for a marvelous time then reach out to one of the many travel advisors at Coasters & Castles Travel!
Melissa Lenox is a Gold Level Vacation Specialist and blog editor with Coasters & Castles Travel. She is a former entertainment cast member, loves Star Wars, Harry Potter, Marvel, Chip 'n Dale, great food and planning trips for others! Follow her on her pages below or contact her at mlenox@travelcnc.com to plan your next adventure!
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🌟 Melissa June - CNC Travel🌟 (@magicaltripswithmelj)
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