Universal Orlando Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval [2025]

Universal Studios Orlando is again putting on a Mardi Gras festival that will beat years prior! This celebration will celebrate 30 years of Mardi Gras celebrations at Universal Studios Orlando! You won’t want to miss it. The theme for this year’s event is Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.

Get ready to party beyond the bayou! Starting February 4th, head down to Universal Studios Orlando for a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras festival! This year guests can expect to experience incredible parades, live performances, and unique food options!

What To Expect At Universal Studios Mardi Gras

This year’s Mardi Gras event will hold all the same guest favorites while bringing in new and exciting features.

Guests can expect the same bright colorful costumed performers, live New Orleans band performances, an incredible parade, as well as live concerts.

Added this year is a wider variety of food options available to guests. This year, Universal has decided to expand the Cajun lineup to incorporate food from over 17 different counties and the Carnaval celebrations. As well as a variety of treats to enjoy.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras: Admission & Dates

Even though the Universal Studios Mardi Gras Festival is a special event, this one is included with the general admission ticket that you need to enter the park, which is a really great deal!

There is no need to purchase a special event ticket in order to enjoy these Mardi Gras Festivities.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval kicks off on February 1st and continues until March 30, 2025.

With festivities happening daily, there is plenty of time for you to get to Universal Studios and celebrate.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras: Live Concerts

Universal Studios’ Mardi Gras celebration is known for its live performances, which are a top guest favorite when visiting Universal Studios, Florida.

This year’s Mardi Gras Concert lineup has some incredible artists performing. Guests can expect to see performances from T-Pain, Joe Jonas, Scotty McCreery, Foster the People, and so many more!

To see the full lineup and find out who is performing when you will be there, check out Universal Mardi Gras Concert Lineup

Parades at Universal Studios Mardi Gras

The Mardi Gras parade, featuring twelve parade floats, can be enjoyed almost nightly at Universal Studios. The 30th anniversary parade will feature six new floats inspired by the Krewes*.

Listed below are the specific times and days the parades begin.

The Mardi Gras parade will start at 6:15 pm on the following nights: February 5 – 9, February 12 – 16, and February 26 – March 2.

At 7:30 pm on the following nights: February 17, February 20 – 24; March 3, March 6 – April 16.

And at 7:45 pm on the following nights: February 4, February 10 – 11, February 18 – 19, and March 4 – 5. These nights are also concert nights.

Note: There will be no parade on Friday, March 31.

Mardi Gras Float Riding:

For guests that wish to have a unique Mardi Gras experience, Universal Studios is offering an opportunity for guests to ride on select parade floats.

There are limited spots available for this experience, so it is best to reserve it as soon as possible! Be sure to also check out the requirements to ride on the parade float to make sure you can do it.

The requirements for being able to participate are as follows:

• Guest must be 18 years of age
• Guest must be 48 inches or taller
• Guest must be able to stand for the whole duration of the float
• Guests with disabilities can request accommodations 48 hours prior to the event.
• No smoking, drinking or eating while on the float
• No strollers or large bags will be permitted on the floats

Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience

Guests who wish to have the ultimate Mardi Gras experience can opt for the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience.

During this experience, guests will be allowed to book a 3-course meal at a participating restaurant and ride in a Mardi Gras Parade Float (on the same night).

This experience is back from previous years and is a unique way to really maximize your fun during the Flavors of Carnival at Universal Studios Orlando.

When you book this experience, you select one of the following Universal Orlando Resort restaurants;

• Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
• NBC Sports Grill & Brew
• Finnegan’s Bar & Grill
• Lombard’s Seafood Grille
• Confisco Grille (2-Park ticket required)
• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food (dinner only)
• Pat O’Brien’s (dinner only)

Prices for this experience start at $84.99 per person (gratuity included).

If this is an experience that you are interested in, be sure to purchase soon, as it is subject to availability and there are already some dates that are completely sold out.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras: Savor Flavor

Nothing says Mardi Gras celebration like good authentic food! Universal Studios Mardi Gras is a great way to experience authentic and delicious food options.

This year Universal Studios is bringing Carnival food from around the world to showcase during the event.

There will be food (and beverages) from over 17 different counties that have Carnival celebrations! Some of these countries include, Canada, China, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Italy, and more!

The full Mardi Gras Savor Flavor Menu hasn’t been released, however, Universal has shown some of the treats that guests can expect to enjoy during the festivities.

Annual Passholders are able to purchase exclusive Mardi Gras Menu items during the Mardi Gras event.

• Spiked Affogato at Louie’s Gelato Window (Vanilla Gelato, Espresso, and Coffee Liquor)
• Affogato at Louie’s Gelato Window (Vanilla Gelato and Espresso)
• “Spiked Gelato Float” at Louie’s Gelato Window (Vanilla Gelato, New Amsterdam Vodka, Gran Gala, Orange Fanta)

The Annual Passholder must be 21+ and must have a valid ID to purchase these alcoholic beverages.

Additionally, Universal is offering some exclusive food at their Universal Studio Hotels. Meaning that whether you are staying or you are just visiting one of their hotels, you can enjoy some limited-time, exclusive food in celebration of Mardi Gras.

Here is some of the food that will be available at Universal Studios Hotels:

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Trattoria del Porto

• CAJUN JAMBALAYA PASTA
  Shrimp, Smoke Sausage, Chicken, Onions, Peppers, and Mushroom in a Creole
• Sauce with Fettuccine Pasta
• MASQUERADE CANNOLI
  Mixed berry insalada

The Thirsty Fish

• BOULEVARDIER
  Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Campari, Sweet Vermouth

Splendido Bar & Grill

• MOJITO LAMPONE
  (Lampone is Italian for raspberry)
  Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Chambord, simple syrup, raspberry, mint

Hard Rock Hotel®

The Kitchen

• BOURBON STREET BEIGNETS
  Bourbon Caramel Sauce, Powdered Sugar
• FRENCH 75
  Hendrick’s Gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar, champagne

Velvet Bar

• N’AWLINS PO’ BOY SLIDERS
  Smoked Andouille Sausage, Sautéed Peppers and Onions, Cajun Remoulade, Toasted French bread
• FRENCH 75
  Hendrick’s Gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar, champagne

Beachclub

• HURRICANE
  Papa’s Pilar Rum, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, grenadine, pineapple, and orange juice

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Islands Dining Room

• KING CAKE PANCAKES
  Lemon and powdered sugar glaze, spiced walnuts (breakfast only)

Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar

• ORCHID
  Nikka Gin, St.Germain, Crème de Violet, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Pea Flower Float

Tuk Tuk Market

• CHOCOLATE BOMB
  Choose from: chocolate and caramel with spiced pecan with Mardi Gras purple, green, and gold decor, s’mores, or cookies & cream

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Amatista Cookhouse

• SHRIMP & ANDOUILLE SAUSAGE GUMBO POT PIE
  Vegetables and Okra

Strong Water Tavern

• CUCUMBER HURRICANE TWIST
  Light rum, lime juice, Midori, sliced cucumber

New Dutch Trading Co.

• TRADITIONAL KING CAKE

Universal’s Aventura Hotel

Bar 17 Bistro

• CRAWFISH ETOUFFEE
  A classic dish of crawfish, the holy trinity of onions, celery, and bell pepper served over rice
• MUFFULETTA SANDWICH
  Genoa Salami, Mortadella, ham, provolone and swiss cheese, and olive salad

Bar 17 Bistro and Bar Ventura

• HURRICANE
  Bacardi Superior Rum, Myers’s Original Dark Rum, passion fruit, tropical juices
• SAZERAC
  Rye whiskey, absinthe, simple syrup, Peychaud’s Bitters

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Galaxy Bowl Restaurant

• SHRIMP PO’ BOY WITH ZAPPS CHIPS
  Crispy Cajun fried shrimp piled on a French baguette and topped with a creole-inspired creamy remoulade sauce – add $7 for a choice of 16-ounce Abita draft beer or 12-ounce Abita king cake soda (Also available a la carte)
• LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER HURRICANE
  Let the good times roll with Bacardi Light Rum, Cruzan 12yr Single Barrel Rum, passionfruit puree, orange juice, and grenadine – served with a 32-ounce souvenir Galaxy Bowl cup

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Beach Break Café

• NEW ORLEANS BBQ SHRIMP & DIRTY RICE
  A classic creole dish. Sautéed shrimp in a rich butter and Worcestershire sauce on a bed of flavorful Cajun spiced rice with andouille sausage

Sand Bar

• THE ENDLESS CARNIVAL
  Castillo Silver Rum, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Chinola Passionfruit Liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice, a pinch of dried blackberries, pineapple wedge, and a green sugar rim

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Pier 8

• NEW ORLEANS CAJUN ROASTED CHICKEN & DIRTY RICE
  A classic creole dish of Cajun spiced oven-roasted half chicken on a bed of flavorful Creole rice with andouille sausage topped with spicy sweet candied bacon

Sunset Lounge, The Oasis Beach Bar, and The Wave Maker’s Pool Bar

• THE ENDLESS CARNIVAL
  Castillo Silver Rum, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Chinola Passionfruit Liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice, a pinch of dried blackberries, pineapple wedge, and a green sugar rim

If you’re interested to know more about the different Universal Studios Hotels that are offered at Universal Studios Orlando, then stay tuned (A post is in the works).

There will also be some Mardi Gras flavors for guests to enjoy at Universal CityWalk.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras: Annual Passholder Perks

If you are a Universal Studios Passholder then there are some exclusive perks for you to enjoy during the Universal Studios Mardi Gras Festival.

Check out these 9 Perks that are available exclusively to Annual Passholders, during the Universal Mardi Gras event.

1. Free Mardi Gras Exclusive Passholder Magnet
   • Magnet pickup in two spots
     • Toon Extra in Universal’s Island of Adventure (11 – 4 daily)
     • Five and Dime in Universal Studios Florida (open-close)

2. Ride a Mardi Gras Parade Float
   • Passholders can sign themselves and up to four more pass holders up to ride a mardi gras float and toss beads to the crowd on select nights during the Mardi Gras festival
     • Be sure to check availability, as many nights are already at capacity and Universal is NOT accepting any new reservations.

3. Exclusive Passholder Mardi Gras Parade Viewing Area
   • On select nights during the Mardi Gras Parade, Passholders can get an exclusive viewing area in front of Mel’s Drive-in.
     • Space is limited and given on a first-come, first-serve basis.

4. Passholders can save 15% on the new Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience
   • Seasonal Passholders’ blackout dates do apply

5. Discount on Universal Orlando Resort Food & Beverage Card
   • Passholders are able to purchase a $150 food & beverage card for only $120

6. Special Mardi Gras Food & Beverage Discounts
   • Premier Passholders receive 15% off
   • Preferred Passholders receive 10% off

7. Exclusive Mardi Gras Menu Items
   • Must be 21+ to purchase the exclusive Mardi Gras Menu Items (Items listed below)

8. Early Park Admission
   • Premier, Preferred, Power, and Seasonal Pass holders get early admission to select attractions at Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
   • 3-Park Power and season pass holders get early park admission to Universal’s Volcano Bay for up to 30 minutes prior to opening (weather permitting).
   • Valid select dates February 4 through March 10, 2023.

9. Exclusive Mardi Gras Merchandise
   • At Toon Extra in Universal’s Islands of Adventure and at Five and Dime in Universal Studios Florida while supplies last.
   • Plus early access to Mardi Gras Tribute Store in Universal Studios Florida on Feb 2, 2023, from noon until park closing.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras FAQ:

Here are some frequent questions about Universal Studios Orlando’s Mardi Gras festival. If you have a specific question, don’t be afraid to reach out via email, social media, or comment below.

How long does Mardi Gras last at Universal Studios?

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Orlando starts February 4th and goes until April 16th, 2023.

Meaning guests have a total of 41 days to celebrate and experience a great Mardi Gras experience beyond the bayou!

What day does Mardi Gras end at Universal?

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios starts on a Saturday and ends on a Thursday.

Is Mardi Gras Universal free?

Yes! Mardi Gras festivities at Universal are included in the general admission ticket! Meaning more money to try some of the many delicious food options that are available during the event.

How long does the Universal parade last?

The parade will pass by guests for approximately 15 minutes. However, from when the parade officially begins, to when it leaves takes about 45 minutes. 

Closing The Gate On: Universal Studios Mardi Gras

Universal Studios Orlando starts Mardi Gras festivities on February 1, 2025. These festivities go until March 30, 2025.

Like in years past, the cost to attend Universal Studios Mardi Gras is included in the general admission ticket, with a few different add-ons that are available to guests who wish to enhance their experience.

There are many favorite activities that are returning this year, as well as some new and exciting offerings. Be sure to book your parade riding experience before they sell out for a one-of-a-kind experience that you will not get anywhere else.

Be sure to try some of their Cajuin Carnaval food from over 17 different countries, as well as the variety of sweet treats available too.

Mardi Gras only happens once a year, so you don’t want to miss this exciting event that will be sure to create memories to last a lifetime.