Universal Mardi Gras 2023

Universal Orlando Resort has so much to offer at all times of year, but from around February to April each year, the Universal Studios Florida park gets a little more pizazz as they add in Mardi Gras celebrations, all included with the price of your regular admission!  It includes international inspired food booths, a parade complete with beads, and concerts by some of your favorite artists on select nights.  Join us as we go beyond the Bayou for Universal's Mardi Gras, featuring NOLA favorites and the best of Carnaval celebrations around the world. 

The 2023 event is International Flavors of Mardi Gras and runs from February 4th to April 16th, 2023.  Due to a special event on March 31st, the parade will not be offered. 

The parade is always a great time, full of energy, beautiful floats and beads to catch while you watch. The parade this year will feature some favorite floats from the past and also introduce six brand new floats. But did you know, you can even ride on the floats yourself?  New for 2023, there is a brand new Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine option!

Includes:

• Reserved spot for you and yours on one of the spectacular parade floats. Unique chance to guarantee a spot in the parade where you can wave to the crowds as you toss out beads!
• Enjoy a 3-course meal selecting from the full menu at one of the four participating restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort.
• Available for select dates Feb.4-Apr.16
• Mardi Gras Float Riders must be 18+ or accompanied by a legal guardian 18 or older. All riders must be at least 48" in height to board the floats and must be able to stand for the duration of the parade.
• Separate theme park admission is required
• Prices start at $69.00 and purchase must be made at least 24 hours prior to event date
• If you are interested in adding this to your vacation, contact your Kingdom Konsultant Agent today as we anticipate spots will fill up fast! 

Each year the concert lineup is eagerly awaited and I'm happy to say there are quite a few I'm excited about this year.  A big weekend kicks off early in the event with JVKE performing Friday, February 10th,  and The Goo Goo Dolls on Saturday February 11th.  I'm personally looking forward to 3 Doors Down on Saturday, February 25th.  Other artists announced include Patti LaBelle, Willow, and Sean Paul.  

Finally, there are numerous tasting booths throughout Universal Studios Florida to get a variety of bites throughout the day.  But the flavors don't stop there, Citywalk and Universal Resort restaurants and bars add specialty menu items to enjoy outside the parks as well.  Try some Bourbon Street Bengiets over at the Hard Rock Hotel or King Cake Pancakes at Loew's Royal Pacific. Of if you are more into something savory, Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort will offer Shrimp Po' Boys. 

One of my favorite bites from past events was from the Brazil booth, and I can't wait to try even more this year!

Stuffed Coxinha – crispy pulled-chicken teardrop fritters from Brazil

For more details on this year's event including full concert lineup, click here.

For more on past year's celebrations, click here. 

Maci Schau

Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks.  You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.