Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, begins this Saturday, February 7 and runs daily through Saturday, April 4. The festival brings the spirit of New Orleans and global carnaval celebrations to the heart of Universal Studios Florida. The popular event features a parade with vibrant floats, street performers and tons of beads; live concerts from top names in music including award-winning artist Bebe Rexha, DJ and producer Zedd and platinum-selling rock band The All-American Rejects; and an expansive menu of international dishes inspired by New Orleans favorites and iconic Carnaval flavors from 12 different countries. For the first time ever, guests may encounter Prince Gator, an all-new adorable walkaround character inspired by the iconic King Gator float that has become a staple in the parade.

Here’s what you can expect:

• The Mardi Gras parade features twelve hand-crafted floats designed to celebrate the vibrant spirit of New Orleans from its food, music and beads to the bayou. Plus, guests can catch beads by the handful, enjoy street performers and live music as the parade winds down the street. Guests can also secure a spot to ride a float during the Mardi Gras parade by purchasing a Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which also includes a savory three-course meal.
• Live performances by top music acts on select nights at the Music Plaza Stage. Festivities kick off with a live concert by Kaskade on February 7, with other artists during the concert series including Zedd, Bebe Rexha and The All-American Rejects.

• An expansive menu of more than 40 sampler-sized items inspired by Carnaval celebrations from Puerto Rico to France to Austria plus New Orleans favorites. Some of the delectable items  this year include the highly-anticipated Baked Cajun Mac & Cheese and fluffy Beignets from New Orleans; Verlasso Salmon from Chile; the Ham, Brie and Berry crepe from France; Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel from Austria; Pinchos de Lechon from Puerto Rico; and so much more. The best way to save and savor the flavors of this year’s culinary delights is with the purchase of the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card, where guests can pay $65 for a card of $75 value. Annual and Seasonal Passholders also receive special savings on an exclusive $150 card which can be purchased for $120.
• An all-new Mardi Gras Tribute Store located in the Hollywood area of the theme park, features elaborately-themed rooms inspired by the neon glow of Baron Tonton’s Roadhouse, the winding pathways of the boroughs of New Orleans and the vibrant energy of the French Quarter. Signature items this year include a Baron Tonton shoulder pal, headband, and apparel; neon-infused items designed to celebrate the lively streets, and beignet keychains and plush keepsakes.

Keep the Good Times Rolling at Universal CityWalk and Universal’s Hotels
Keep the Mardi Gras party going at Universal CityWalk with festivities at select venues, like the Mardi Gras After Party at Pat O’Brien’s with specialty drink and entertainment offerings including a DJ, stilt walkers and a patio guitarist on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the Mardi Gras season; and the Cursed Coconut Club, the popular seasonal transformation of the Red Coconut Club complete with an all-new theme, exclusive beverages and a DJ, jazz musicians and more entertainment on select nights.

Guests can indulge in Mardi Gras-inspired food and beverage offerings across Universal’s hotels, including Bourbon Street Beignets at The Kitchen in the Hard Rock Hotel, Korean Cajun Jambalaya at Bar 17 Bistro in Universal Aventura Hotel, and Voodoo Street Fries at the Pier 8 Market in Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. Staying at a Universal hotel is the ultimate way to experience Mardi Gras with exclusive benefits during their visit, including Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation to the theme parks.

Special Offers to Plan a Visit
Access to the festivities of Universal Orlando‘s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval is included in regular theme park admission or with an Annual or Seasonal Pass (blockout dates apply). Guests can take advantage of a variety of offers to plan their visit this spring, including:

• Getting three months free with the purchase of any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass. Universal Annual and Seasonal Passholders receive exclusive Mardi Gras perks including a special Mardi Gras parade viewing area, an exclusive opportunity to ride a Mardi Gras float on select nights, a 15% discount on the Mardi Gras Float Ride & Dine Experience, exclusive savings on hotel stays, early access to the Tribute Store and Cursed Coconut Club, complimentary Mardi Gras-themed magnet, special passholder merchandise and more. Click here to learn more.
• Florida residents can save $75 on a 3-Day Park-to-Park ticket when purchasing online, as well as enjoy limited-time savings on 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day Park-to-Park ticket options that include access to Universal Epic Universe and Universal Volcano Bay. Florida residents can also save up to 25% at participating hotels.
• U.S. residents can stay near the excitement of Mardi Gras and save 30% off a stay of five nights or more at participating hotels. Visit the website for additional ticket offers.