Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a festive celebration that marks the final day of the Carnival season. Festivities for Mardi Gras typically begin several weeks before the big day, and celebrations are held in countries worldwide with music, parades, dancing, feasts, and lots of fun. One of the most famous destinations for Mardi Gras celebrations is New Orleans, but there are other spots that let loose with bead-throwing, beignet-eating, jazz-playing revelry.
In the United States, Universal Orlando Resort stands out as a place that keeps the party going well past the official Mardi Gras holiday. Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras festivities kick off 10 days before Fat Tuesday and continue until April 7. This extended celebration allows visitors to keep the Mardi Gras spirit alive for over two months.
One of the most appealing aspects of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is that all the festivities are included in the cost of your park ticket. This means that when you purchase your tickets to Universal Studios Florida, you get access to the Mardi Gras parade, live music, entertainment, and specialty food and beverage booths without any additional cost.
The daily parade at Universal Studios Florida is a highlight of the Mardi Gras festivities. The parade features classic floats as well as themed floats that change each year. Guests can catch beads and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the parade, complete with plenty of confetti and excitement.
In addition to the parade, Universal Orlando offers a variety of food and beverage options inspired by global cuisine. From New Orleans classics like beignets and jambalaya to dishes from Germany, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Spain, France, and China, there is something for every palate. The Mardi Gras food and beverage tasting card allows guests to sample a variety of dishes at a discounted price.
Live entertainment is a key component of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration. In addition to the nightly parade, guests can enjoy free concerts featuring well-known performers. The lineup for this year’s event includes artists like KC and the Sunshine Band, Queen Latifah, and Walker Hayes, providing a diverse range of musical experiences for visitors to enjoy.
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration also has ties to New Orleans, with the park working closely with Kern Studios, one of the city’s premier Mardi Gras float designers and builders. The collaboration with Kern Studios adds an authentic touch to the event, with props and floats inspired by the rich traditions of New Orleans.
One of the standout features of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is its family-friendly atmosphere. While New Orleans is known for its raucous Mardi Gras celebrations, Universal Orlando’s event is designed to cater to guests of all ages. Families can enjoy the festivities together, from sampling international cuisine to catching beads at the parade.
In conclusion, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration offers a unique and exciting way to experience the festive spirit of Fat Tuesday. With a mix of music, food, parades, and entertainment, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Mardi Gras right in the heart of Orlando. Whether you’re a fan of New Orleans traditions or simply looking for a fun and memorable experience, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is sure to delight guests of all ages.