Celebrate Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort

Get the bead necklaces ready because Mardi Gras is back at Universal Orlando Resort, from February 7th through April 4th! Inspired by New Orleans’ Big Easy Bash, this is an event you won’t want to miss, featuring incredible food, spectacular parades, and live music, all included with your park admission to Universal Studios Florida*! 

With so much to experience at this fun-filled event you’re going to want to make the most of every single minute - if you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort this Mardi Gras season, here’s everything you need to know. 

Authentic food experiences

Mardi Gras means ‘Fat Tuesday’ for a reason and there are enough food options at this event to prove it... it's not called Flavors of Carnaval for nothing! Whether you're wanting a savoury kick or a classic sweet treat here are some of the food items we're most looking forward to at Mardi Gras 2026: 

• Verlasso "Fire" Salmon - fire-roasted Verlasso salmon with crispy potatoes and fresh herb salsa
• Pao de Queijo - freshly bakes warm Brazilian cheese bread bits
• Pastelon Fritters - crispy sweet plantain and picadillo beef fritters served with mayo ketchup
• Sfogliatella "Lobster Tail" - layers of sweet flaky pastry filled with a rich vanilla ricotta cream
• Beignets - sweet fried pastries served hot and topped with powdered sugar 

Fantastic Floats on Parade

A Mardi Gras celebration wouldn’t be complete without a larger-than-life parade through the streets and this is no exception. 

You know it’s a Universal Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnaval party like no other when the streets of Universal Studios Florida come alive with fantastic floats inspired by New Orleans and Carnaval celebrations around the globe. 

Make sure you get your spot in plenty of time, as you’ll want a prime location for catching as many bead necklaces as you can!

Pro Tip - Want to get even closer to the action? You can get involved and join the parade from on top of the floats themselves as you toss beads to the crowd below - a truly unforgettable experience for the whole family. This will take a few hours so make sure you plan accordingly - you can book your spot on the Universal Orlando Resort app, subject to availability

Live concerts

On select dates throughout the season, you can see some pretty big names in music live in concert on the Music Plaza Stage. The 2026 headliners include RuPaul, Zedd, and Bebe Rexha and with first-come-first-served entry, you’ll want to get there early to avoid disappointment. Check out the full concert line-up below: 

Want to join the party? Book your Universal Orlando Resort tickets in advance for the best price, like our Universal Orlando All Parks Ticket.

_{*Additional charges apply for food and drink}