Universal Orlando Resort’s popular spring event, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, returns this Saturday, February 7, and runs daily through Saturday, April 4, 2026, bringing the spirit of New Orleans and global carnaval celebrations to Universal Studios Florida.
What to Expect
This year’s celebration features a dazzling parade with twelve beautifully hand-crafted floats, energetic street performers, live music, and tons of beads. For the first time ever, guests can meet an all-new walkaround character — Prince Gator, the son of the iconic King Gator float that has become a fan-favorite staple of the parade. Prince Gator will be available for meet-and-greets throughout the season near the Wave outside Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show.
Concert Lineup
Live performances from top names in music return to the Music Plaza Stage on select nights. Here’s the full 2026 concert lineup:
- February 7 — Kaskade
- February 14 — Portugal. The Man
- February 15 — Ivy Queen
- February 21 — Joey Fantone & AJ Mclean
- February 28 — RuPaul (DJ Set)
- March 7 — Shaggy
- March 13 — Tyler Hubbard
- March 14 — Bebe Rexha
- March 15 — Zedd
- March 21 — Barenaked Ladies
- March 28 — The All-American Rejects
Global Food & Drink
An expansive menu of more than 40 sampler-sized items inspired by Carnaval celebrations from 12 different countries awaits, alongside New Orleans favorites. Highlights include Baked Cajun Mac & Cheese, fluffy Beignets from New Orleans, Verlasso Salmon from Chile, the Ham, Brie and Berry crepe from France, Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel from Austria, and Pinchos de Lechon from Puerto Rico.
Guests can make the most of the food offerings with the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card — $65 for a $75 value card, or $120 for a $150 card for Annual and Seasonal Passholders.
New Mardi Gras Tribute Store
A brand-new Mardi Gras Tribute Store opens in the Hollywood area of the park, featuring elaborately-themed rooms inspired by Baron Tonton’s Roadhouse, the boroughs of New Orleans, and the French Quarter. Signature items include a Baron Tonton shoulder pal, headband, apparel, neon-infused items, beignet keychains, and plush keepsakes.
CityWalk & Hotel Celebrations
The party extends beyond the park gates. The Mardi Gras After Party at Pat O’Brien’s features specialty drinks, a DJ, stilt walkers, and a patio guitarist on Fridays and Saturdays. The Cursed Coconut Club returns with an all-new theme, exclusive beverages, jazz musicians, and entertainment on select nights.
Across Universal Orlando’s 11 hotels, guests can enjoy Mardi Gras-inspired food and drinks, 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.
Deals & Special Offers
- Three months free with the purchase of any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass
- Annual and Seasonal Passholders get exclusive Mardi Gras perks including a special parade viewing area, float ride opportunity, 15% off Float Ride & Dine, early Tribute Store and Cursed Coconut Club access, and a complimentary magnet
- Florida residents save $75 on a 3-Day Park-to-Park ticket, plus savings on 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day options including Universal Epic Universe and Volcano Bay access. Up to 25% off hotels
- U.S. residents save 30% off a stay of five nights or more at participating hotels
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval is included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida or with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass. For more information, visit UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.
