Driving all the way to New Orleans to experience Mardi Gras may not make much sense, especially if you have a family. Instead, visit Universal Mardi Gras where the celebrations are equally vibrant and fun for the entire family. The best part is that you can party with other families every night from February 1 through April 2 without having to buy an extra ticket other than an entry pass to Universal Studios of Florida.
Mardi Gras Parades
First thing that may come to mind about this long holiday are the parades of colorful floats and marching bands. At Universal, Mardi Gras is celebrated nightly with parades, stilt walkers, dancers, and street performers. Of course there will be tons of confetti and beads thrown. Since this is a family friendly event, all you have to do to get beads is smile!
If you or a family member are hearing or viewing impaired, there’s a special area for ADA viewing to the far left of the stage near Rip Roaring Rocket’s entrance. If you or a family member are in a wheelchair, feel free to park on the concrete walkway on either side of the technician’s booth.
Fun Fact: Kearn Studios, who makes the Mardi Gras floats for Universal, also makes the floats for Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras Fun for the Little Ones
Little tots and small ones in the family are invited to watch the festivities from the Little Jester’s parade viewing area. You’ll find it in front of the Brown Derby Hat. Here you can secure an unobstructed viewing spot an hour before the parade.
Locating the French Quarter Courtyard
If you’ve been to Universal Studios before, you know there’s no section for New Orleans. That’s where theme park magic comes in play. From February 1 through April 2, Universal transforms its New York location into the French Quarter Courtyard—the epicenter of Mardi Gras celebrations.
Beignets and Cajun Food
Now that we know where the French Quarter Courtyard is located, you know where to go for some authentic beignets, jambalaya, and other famous Cajun/Creole cuisine. Mardi Gras isn’t the same without the flavors of New Orleans!
The Sounds of Mardi Gras
After food and floats, Mardi Gras is also extremely well known for the music. Throughout the parade and in special concerts, this celebration is made complete by the unique music of Louisiana Jazz, blues, and Zydeco bands straight from New Orleans. You will not want to miss this unique experience. But of course Universal has to top itself to make Mardi Gras unforgettable, so they’ve invited famous musical acts to play at the Music Plaza Stage during Mardi Gras. The stage is right by Rip Roaring Rocket. The concert line-up includes top acts such as ROOTS, TLC, and Marshmello. Keep track of Theme Park Events for updates on concerts and other special Mardi Gras events at Universal Studios.
Rosen Inn, Closest Rosen Hotel to Universal Studios
By visiting Orlando and Universal Studios, you wisely chose a way for the family to enjoy Mardi Gras. Make another wise decision by staying at Rosen Inn. We’re the closest Rosen hotel to Universal Studios—only a mile and a half away! Many of our guests even walk to the theme park—it’s that close. Closer still is the Check Availability button in the top right corner. Click it to start your next Orlando vacation.
