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Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval 2026 is officially underway, and with it comes one of the most anticipated seasonal offerings at Universal Studios Florida — the Mardi Gras Tribute Store. This year’s edition, themed as “TonTon’s Roadhouse,” is now open in the Hollywood section of the park, and it’s a detailed, atmospheric journey through the fictional Louisiana haunt of event mascot Baron TonTon.
Annual Passholders got exclusive early access to the store starting February 5, ahead of the event’s official opening on February 7.
The Roadhouse
The experience begins at the entrance, where a looming skeleton in a top hat sets the tone. Step inside and you’re transported into a teal-lit, wood-paneled watering hole — the roadhouse itself. Mardi Gras beads dangle from the rafters above a vintage bar counter, and the walls are plastered with posters advertising fictional house spirits like “Never Clear” and “Gator Shine,” along with gig posters for acts such as “Gregory & the Ten Ton Tikis.”
A small stage with a drum kit sits ready for the next set, while a “permanently out of order” dart machine and vintage popcorn cart sell the lived-in, dive-bar atmosphere. It’s the kind of detail-rich environment Universal’s Tribute Stores have become known for.
Neon Alleys and Voodoo Secrets
Duck through the back of the roadhouse and the vibe shifts dramatically. You’ll find yourself in a neon-soaked back alley where blacklights make hot pink, electric green, and purple graffiti pop off the walls. The path winds into a dense voodoo shop heavy on Southern Gothic charm — think Spanish moss, flickering lanterns, skulls, and gravestones.
From there, you pass through a red velvet parlor that serves as a transition to the store’s grand finale.
Bourbon Street
The final room is a recreation of Bourbon Street, complete with wrought-iron balconies, striped awnings, and the glowing “Hotel Anna Marie” sign overhead. Commanding the center of the space is a towering skull in a top hat, flanked by alligators and dripping with beads — it’s the definitive photo op of the store.
This is also where you’ll find the bulk of the exclusive merchandise. The 2026 lineup includes “Krewe Way” shirts, masks, collectibles, neon-infused items, a Baron TonTon shoulder pal, beignet keychains, headbands, and plush keepsakes. Themed treats round out the shopping experience.
A Store That’s Become an Attraction
For those unfamiliar with the concept, Universal’s Tribute Stores originated during Halloween Horror Nights in 2015 and have since expanded to cover other seasonal events, including Mardi Gras and the Holidays. The Mardi Gras version moved to its current Hollywood location in 2023 after previously being housed in the New York section of the park.
Each year the store gets a new theme and narrative, and TonTon’s Roadhouse continues that tradition with a cohesive story that ties directly into Baron TonTon, the skeleton mascot who has become synonymous with Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration.
Planning Your Visit
The Tribute Store is included with regular park admission and is open during normal park hours throughout the Mardi Gras season, which runs daily from February 7 through April 4, 2026. Don’t miss the red velvet couch photo op near the exit — it’s a popular spot for showing off your haul.
For everything else happening during the event — the parade schedule, concert lineup, food booths, and more — check out our full guide to Mardi Gras 2026.
