Let the Good Times Roll at Universal’s Mardi Gras

The logo for Universal's Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnaval event with icons of green and yellow beads, feathers, maracas, and a fork and spoon.

Updated December 4, 2025 by John Nassivera

 

Orlando thrills embrace the grooves, flavor, and spirit of New Orleans during Universal’s Mardis Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval 2026.

The annual Mardi Gras celebration at Universal Orlando Resort begins on February 7, 2026, and continues through April 4, 2026. This event becomes an all-park party, from the decorations, street performers, and delicious foods to the full-on parade floats complete with colorful beads within your grasp.

The best part of the extravaganza? It’s all included in your regular theme park admission — no extra cost.

Let’s break down how to party at the annual Mardi Gras celebration.

 

A large purple, green, and yellow float in a nighttime parade passing by a crowd of people with their hands in the air.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Eating at Universal's Mardi Gras

With menus inspired by Carnaval celebrations from around the world, you’re sure to find something delicious to please your palate.

This year’s food booths will feature international flavors from Canada, China, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and France, as well as the go-to dishes that all Cajun fans know and love.

Fuel for theme park action with Puerto Rico's pinchos de lechón and Mexico's quesabirria. China’s duck xian bing gets the taste buds kicking for more culinary delights.

France’s duck a l'orange crepe and Canada’s hot maple lacquered salmon take appetites on a savory adventure. For a genuine experience of the Bayou, baked Cajun Mac & Cheese, jambalaya, and chicken & sausage gumbo are the way to go.

Keep your eye on what to expect from Universal's Mardi Gras menu in 2026 as the event’s starting date draws closer.

 

A white bowl of jambalaya topped with a red crawfish on a white wooden background.

 

Big Easy Entertainment

A celebration isn’t complete without toe-tapping music. The theme park’s biggest party of the year is no exception.

Universal’s Mardi Gras will showcase a star-studded lineup of performers for concerts on Music Plaza Stage right in front of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This year's concert lineup includes *NSYNC's Joey Fatone, Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean, Shaggy, Barenaked Ladies, The All-American Rejects, and other music icons and Grammy Award-winning artists.

Along with the live performances, you’ll find energetic dancers and stilt performers throughout the park handing out festive beads to guests. To keep up the energy, brass bands and roving musicians spread Mardi Gras cheer to all park-goers.

All of this, on top of Mardi Gras-themed entertainment, thrilling attractions, and in-park shows, makes for a can’t-miss spectacle at Universal Orlando Resort.

 

A bright light on a stage glows at night over a large crowd and a sky of falling confetti.

 

Parade Full of Vibes

You won’t want to miss the impressive Mardi Gras parade making its way through the streets of Universal Studios Florida. Modeled after the intricate and beloved floats from New Orleans, Universal’s bring the same grandeur to sunny Orlando.
 
This year sees the return of the massive King Gator float and the two-story Riverboat float, along with several other classics. The debut of six new floats brings even more color to the jubilant occasion.

The floats capture the spirit of New Orleans with masks, music, food, bayou, and beads while featuring designs based on the broader cultural theme of the International Flavors of Carnaval event. The themes blend together for a magical parade where you can point out the invisible thread between each float as they pass by and you rock to Big Easy beats.

 

A large parade float with drama masks, a masquerade mask, jester masks, and jester figures glides through the street during a nighttime parade surrounded by excited people and confetti.

Those who’ve dreamed of riding parade floats and tossing beads into the crowd have their chance! Annual Universal passholders have the option to register as a float rider closer to the celebration.

Guests can also book a spot by purchasing a Float Ride & Dine pass. This pass includes a three-course meal at one of their participating restaurants along with a spot on the float starting at $94.99 plus tax per person.  Universal Orlando passholders can experience this Mardi Gras extravaganza with a 15% discount.

Whichever way you choose to experience the parade, you’re sure to enjoy it.

 

A performer in a purple crystal bikini with purple gloves and an enormous feathered headdress in purple, green, and yellow.

 

A Relaxing Hotel Near Universal's Mardi Gras

For a convenient and affordable stay, bring the gang to Rosen Inn Closest to Universal.

Our comfortable hotel is only five minutes away from Universal Orlando Resort, has no resort fees, and offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the park. You can even see some coasters and Universal’s Volcano Bay from select rooms.

Rosen Inn Closest to Universal is the perfect home away from home when experiencing Universal’s Mardi Gras.

As loyal fans await more official details for the event, the current lineup of menus and musical guests is set to offer electrifying nights to remember for years to come.

Book your Big Easy adventure with us today and experience Orlando like never before.

 

A multi-story yellow hotel building behind a crystal blue pool and palm trees.

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