My neck was overloaded with colorful beads and I had just polished off an entire order of pillowy beignets. The good times were indeed rolling, but I was in an unexpected destination. 

Since 1995, thousands have headed not to New Orleans, but to Orlando to celebrate Mardi Gras. That’s thanks to Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras, a time-honored tradition where Universal Studios Florida theme park comes alive with entertainment, colorful parade floats, global cuisine, and an all-around energetic atmosphere. The celebration brings the spirit of the Big Easy to central Florida through colorful decor and traditional music. Simply put, it’s an absolute must-do experience worthy of adding to any bucket list.

From entertainment to dining, here is what to expect from Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras.

The Entertainment

The crown jewel of the celebration is the dazzling parade that shows each evening. The spectacle features live performers, dancers, and elaborate parade floats. Authenticity is at its core, with the vividly colorful floats crafted by Kern Studios, the company behind New Orleans’ Mardi Gras parades.

Throughout the parade, thousands of beads are thrown into the crowds. Pro tip: Secure a prime spot along the parade route at least 30 minutes prior. 

Another favorite of Universal’s Mardi Gras are the free concerts that take place on select evenings. Top national talent is brought in, like Zedd, Bebe Rexha, and Kaskade.

Streetmosphere keeps the party going and the energy levels high with costumed stilt walkers and a strolling brass band. Guests can also meet a new walk around character, Prince Gator, and spoiler: he’s adorable.

A unique tradition is the Mardi Gras Tribute Store, an interactive walk-through experience (think: like a haunted house without the frights). Each year, a new theme is introduced and guests can explore each of the intricately detailed rooms, including one modeled after the famed French Quarter. It’s also the hub for the event’s exclusive merchandise. Expect bold colors and creative designs.

The Food

What would a Mardi Gras celebration be without delicious food? This is where the mouth-watering food festival, Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, comes in. More than 40 different food and drink options can be found at outdoor kitchens throughout the park with bold and inspired flavors from twelve different nations, including Jamaica, Ireland, and Brazil. Of course, traditional New Orleans bites abound, like expertly deep-fried beignets, King cake, and savory gumbo. Notable dishes include a vegan Rasta Pasta with coconut curry cream sauce and pinchos de lechon, a char-grilled pork shoulder skewer with guava BBQ sauce. Live fire cooking on display makes it a true multi-sensory experience.

Exclusive Mardi Gras-inspired eats and sips are also available across Universal Orlando hotels, like the Hard Rock Hotel. Universal Orlando’s entertainment district, CityWalk, becomes a premier stop for festivities with the Cursed Coconut Club, an elaborately themed pop-up nightclub oozing New Orleans flair and taking the fun into the wee hours of the night.

How to Visit

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras is a multi-month celebration offered daily through April 4 and included with standard theme park admission. While many of the elements may be adult-leaning, this is an all-ages, family-friendly event.

One-day, one-park tickets start at $99 for Florida residents and $124 for non-residents. Guests can plan multiple visits with a Universal Orlando Annual Pass, which is currently offering a special promotion with three months free. Annual Passholders receive exclusive perks, like discounts on food, merchandise, and hotel accommodations, and a reserved parade viewing area.

The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience is a popular add-on that includes a three-course meal and the opportunity to ride aboard one of the parade floats and pass out beads. A Mardi Gras food & beverage card is also offered to save on tastings around the food festival.