Experience Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando — parades, concerts, flavors of New Orleans, and epic fun for families.
Universal Orlando Resort Mardi Gras 2026
2026 dates: To Be Announced
Every spring, Universal Studios Florida transforms into the biggest Mardi Gras bash outside New Orleans — complete with dazzling parades, live concerts, Cajun food booths, and family-friendly fun.
Mom Approved Travel is a Universal U-Preferred Travel Agency, which means we can help you plan the ultimate Mardi Gras vacation package, combining the thrills of Universal Orlando Resort with the unforgettable sights and sounds of Mardi Gras season complete with exclusive perks like Early Park Admission, expertly planned itineraries, and stress free vacation planning support so you don’t miss a parade, concert, or plate of jambalaya.
Request a Universal Mardi Gras Vacation Quote >>
What Is Universal Mardi Gras?
Universal Mardi Gras is one of Universal Orlando’s most popular seasonal events that brings the spirit of New Orleans right into the Universal Studios Florida theme park. On select nights from February through April, guests enjoy:
- Authentic Dazzling Nightly Parades with themed floats, bead tossing, and street performers.
- Daytime Street entertainment that encourages audience participation from live performers and street dancers
- Concerts by major artists on select nights, included with admission.
- Mardi Gras Food Booths inspired by New Orleans flavors and international food booths that turn the park into a foodie festival.
- Family Friendly Atmosphere — music, beads, parades and fun without the French Quarter chaos – kids and grandparents alike can join in to catch beads and pose with costumed characters.
Best of all, Universal’s Mardi Gras fun is included with your regular Universal Studios Florida theme park admission. No extra ticket required! Please note, the food booths do have an additional cost.
Mardi Gras Parade – Universal’s Studios Florida
One of the highlights of Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando is the nightly Mardi Gras parade
- Dozens of vibrant, beautiful themed floats designed in New Orleans bring authentic Carnival style to Orlando.
- Each year has a new parade theme — 2025 celebrated 30 years of Mardi Gras with six all-new floats
- Parade start times vary (between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM depending on the night).
- Beautifully costumed performers and dancers
- Family friendly bead catching along the parade route being thrown into the crowd from the incredible floats
- Stroller and wheelchair accessible viewing areas.
- Guests can even ride a float by registering in park or booking the Float Ride & Dine Experience
This parade is family-friendly and runs most event nights, weather permitting.
Universal Mardi Gras Concert Lineup – Universal Studios Florida
Each year, Universal Orlando announces a star-studded concert series for Mardi Gras at the Universal’s Mardi Gras stage. Past performers have included artists like Kelly Clarkson, Pitbull, and Sugar Ray.
Concerts typically begin at 8:30 PM at Music Plaza Stage and are included with admission, making it one of the best value for entertainment options during Spring in Orlando.
Mom Approved Travel Advisors will update you as soon as the 2026 Mardi Gras lineup is announced.
Food Booths & Flavors of Mardi Gras
Universal brings the flavors of New Orleans to Florida with Mardi Gras food booths and themed dining. Expect fan favorites like:
Expect booths inspired by:
- New Orleans classics (jambalaya, po’ boys, gumbo, étouffée, beignets).
- Cajun cocktails & Hurricanes.
- International dishes – every year includes global bites beyond Louisiana.
Your MAT Advisor can help you build Mardi Gras dining into your trip plan so you don’t miss the best flavors.
Mardi Gras Tribute Store
The Mardi Gras Tribute Store has grown into one of Universal Orlando’s most-loved seasonal experiences — part shop, part themed attraction. What began as a simple event tie-in has now become a fully immersive walkthrough environment, updated every year with a brand-new theme.
In 2025, guests stepped inside the Legends of the Bayou Museum, complete with cryptid exhibits, swamp theming, and hidden Easter eggs from past events.
For 2026, the Tribute Store is expected to bring another unique New Orleans-inspired setting to life! Inside the Tribute Store, you’ll find:
- Exclusive Mardi Gras merchandise (beads, masks, themed mugs).
- Interactive displays and photo ops.
- The 2026 theme will be revealed before opening night — but it’s always worth a visit!
Even if you’re not a big shopper, the Tribute Store is worth visiting just for the theming. It’s a perfect break spot for kids in the middle of the day, plus an easy place to grab air conditioning and a fun keepsake before the parade.
Planning a Universal Mardi Gras Vacation
When you book your Mardi Gras vacation through Mom Approved Travel, you’ll enjoy:
- Early Park Admission to select attractions (exclusive to Travel Advisors & packages)
- Expert guidance on best dates for Mardi Gras, crowds, and weather
- Hotel matching expertise with recommendations close to the fun
See more on Universal Orlando hotels >> - Itinerary planning so you balance Mardi Gras festivities with rides and attractions
- Peace of mind with vacation promotions monitoring
Ready to Ready to Let the Good Times Roll at Universal's Mardi Gras?
Universal Mardi Gras 2026 is the perfect mix of family-friendly fun, epic parades, and world-class concerts. Let Mom Approved Travel handle the planning so all you need to do is grab some beads and enjoy the party! 
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Mom Approved Travel is a Universal U-Preferred Travel Agency
Using a U-Preferred Travel Planner like Mom Approved Travel ensures you save an incredible amount of time, stress and your hard earned vacation dollars will be allocated to Universal holiday vacation things that matter to your family the most.
We were given this designation by Universal Parks and Resorts as a result of our agency’s ongoing focus and commitment to planning customized, magical trips to the Universal themeparks. Mom Approved Travel has helped thousands of families make their family vacation dreams come true.
- Your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will customize your Universal trip to create the best way for your unique family to experience the holidays at Universal according to your needs, budget and people.
- Mom Approved Travel Advisors maintain the highest level of Universal training
- You do not have to stress about getting the best deal, as your Mom Approved Travel Advisor will monitor your reservation for discounts and proactively apply any savings your booking qualifies for.
- Mom Approved Travel becomes your personal concierge and works with you on dining reservations, special events, recreation, VIP tours and so much more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mardi Gras at Universal
FAQ: Is Mardi Gras included with park admission?
Yes! All parades, concerts, and entertainment are included. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
FAQ: Do I need a special ticket for Mardi Gras?
No separate ticket required — your regular park admission covers it.
FAQ: Is Mardi Gras family-friendly?
Yes! Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras is designed for families, with floats, beads, food, and fun that all ages can enjoy.
FAQ: When is Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando?
Mardi Gras typically runs from early February through April. Dates for 2026 will be announced by Universal.
FAQ: Which Universal hotels are best for Mardi Gras?
Staying onsite is the easiest way to enjoy Mardi Gras. Your MAT Advisor will help you choose between Prime Value, Preferred, or Signature resorts.
