Still Haven't Visited Universal Orlando Mardi Gras? 5 Reasons Why You Need To

Jessica DeLucia Orlando, Theme Parks, Universal Studios

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Florida's Biggest Party Continues!

Mardi Gras - known for its big and bold celebration, colors of purple, green, & gold, parade members showering sightseers with beads of all sorts, brings together locals and visitors from all ages. If this is already bringing you excitement to read, the tradition continues in Orlando, FL as Universal Orlando Resort has brought back all the above with a louder, wilder, and spicier Mardi Gras event at Universal Studios Theme Park. Conveniently, Florida’s biggest party runs until the end of April - also one of the best times to visit the Sunshine State for its weather - and you have the opportunity to join the festive fun!

If this isn’t enough to get you into planning mode, here are 5 reasons why you need to visit Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras in 2022:


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#1. Mardi Gras Parade is by far a one-of-a-kind experience.

Stilt walkers decked out in colorful costume fashion greet you with warm smiles, grooving to the beat of the music. Dazzling floats shimmy down its paved runway. Spectators (such as yourself) ready themselves with a few arm stretches with a goal to collect as many beads as humanly possible (save some for the kiddos!). This year, the picturesque New Orleans Mardi Gras parade features six new floats, along with six traditional floats. Fun fact: these authentic floats are direct from New Orleans!

#2. The festive-themed foods and drinks are spectacular.

From morning to night you can purchase delectable New Orleans eats and other flavorsome dishes inspired by tastes from around the world. Some fan-favorites include crawfish boil, salchipapas and the pièce de résistance, beignets. If you’re old enough, snag yourself a classic Emerald Mojito or refresh & recharge with a Cape Guayaba. You can find these creations at Mardi Gras food kiosks located all throughout the park!

#3. Enjoy complimentary concerts (on select nights) with admission.

Just when you thought the festivities were enough. Live concerts can be found at Music Plaza Stage where you can enjoy incredible performances from artists including Jason Derulo, Jimmie Allen, The Revivalists, and other talents.

#4. The decorations add a beautifully unique twist to the theme park.

Your experience starts the second you walk through those gates. Masks, beads and glitter can be found all throughout the theme park, as well as designated photo ops for you and the family to snap a few photos for the memory books. If you want to decorate yourself to match the theme and don the colors of purple, green, & gold, take a trip to the Mardi Gras Tribute Store, a true themed experience filled with fun apparel, souvenirs, accessories, and sweets.

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#5. The rides, but of course.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket, Hogwarts Express - these rides (and more) are open while the festivities unfold! Break from the crowd and stroll to your favorite thrills to get some added fresh air and adrenaline. Plus, wait less and ride more.

Know before you go:

• Admission is included with your Theme Park Ticket or Annual Pass (blockout dates apply).

• Event Dates: February 5 - April 24, 2022

• Parades and concerts can be experienced on select nights.

• Park-to-Park tickets allow you to not only experience the Mardi Gras celebration at Universal Studios Florida, but also the thrills at Islands of Adventure! Hop from park to park for all-day excitement.

No matter what time of the year you visit, it’s at Universal Orlando Resort where you’ll find exciting events, thrilling rides, and scrumptious treats. But if you’re ready to let loose with an original and unparalleled celebration, it’s Universal’s Mardi Gras that’ll keep you visiting during the spring months. And once the party is over, you can continue the fun in Universal's CityWalk. You can also find the best deals in the Orlando area when choosing to stay at Westgate Resorts! Many theme park visitors choose to stay at fan-favorites such as Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Westgate Town Center Resort, or Westgate Vacation Villas Resort.