Written by: Jess Brink, Senior Travel Planner
As the sun goes down, beads start flying and floats take to the streets as performers bring the energy of New Orleans to life.
Cool evenings set the perfect mood along the sparkling streets of Universal Studios Florida, and the atmosphere quickly
turns into a full-blown celebration. There is something for everyone at this family-friendly event. Enjoy international food
booths with both sweet and savory options, shop for exclusive merchandise throughout the park, and join the party that
takes place every night. The festival is happening now and runs through April 4, 2026.
Children will love watching the glowing parade floats roll by as they reach for beads and confetti tossed into the crowd. It
brings the excitement of a true New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration to guests of all ages. Street performers tower on stilts,
jazz music fills the air, and delicious sweets can be found around every corner. It’s an immersive experience where the energy
is contagious and the fun spreads throughout the park. And don’t expect boring theme park food here! Universal really steps up their culinary game during Mardi Gras with unique bites from all over the world. From China to Brazil, along with traditional Mardi Gras favorites like King Cake, beignets, and gumbo. Food booths are scattered throughout Universal Studios, making it easy to snack as you explore. There are also plenty of spots to sit and soak in the festive atmosphere while savoring each bite. Be sure to try the Pastelon Fritters from Puerto Rico and Verlasso Fire Salmon from Chile, you can thank me later! No visit would be complete without stopping by the Tribute Store, where the Mardi Gras celebration continues. This year’s theme transports guests deep into the bayou, with winding paths, themed rooms, and incredible displays that feel like stepping into a story. Along the way, you’ll discover shelves of exclusive merchandise, voodoo dolls, bayou decor, and plenty of photo opportunities. The entrance is located right on Hollywood Boulevard, and I recommend picking up your Mardi Gras gear early in your vacation so you’re ready to celebrate all week long.
When it comes to the parade, will you be a spectator or a participant? Watching the parade is a highlight of the festival, with elaborate illuminated floats and beads thrown to any guest willing to raise their hands and join the fun. But you can also take the experience to the next level and ride on a float yourself. Through the Ride and Dine Experience, guests can head backstage, put on a costume, and hop aboard one of the massive floats to throw beads to the crowd. This is a once in a life time experience that you’ll need to plan ahead for. The Ride and Dine Experience is an additional exclusive ticketed event that you won’t want to miss. Mardi Gras is just one of the many incredible seasonal events Universal Orlando hosts throughout the year, and the best part is that the festival is included with your regular theme park ticket. If the sound of jazz, incredible food, glowing parade floats, and a lively family-friendly party sounds like your kind of vacation, then it might be time to start planning your Universal getaway. And if you can’t make it this year, don’t worry — the celebration returns every spring, and the party will keep on rolling.
