What’s New at Universal Orlando in February 2026: Mardi Gras, Epic Universe, and Refurbishments

February 2026 is a packed month at Universal Orlando Resort. Mardi Gras has officially kicked off, Epic Universe continues to draw massive crowds, and several ride refurbishments are happening across all four parks. Whether you are heading down this month or planning ahead, here is everything you need to know about what is new and what is closed at Universal Orlando in February 2026.

All dates and details below have been verified through Universal Orlando’s official blog and the resort’s official calendars.

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval (February 7 – April 4)

The highlight of February at Universal Orlando is the return of Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, which kicked off on February 7 and runs through April 4, 2026. The event is included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Here is what to expect this year:

• Mardi Gras Parade: The nightly parade features colorfully costumed performers, authentic New Orleans bands, and dozens of floats rolling through Universal Studios Florida. Get ready to catch beads.
• Live Concerts: Headliner concerts return on select nights at the Music Plaza Stage. The 2026 lineup includes Bebe Rexha, Zedd, and other major artists performing throughout the season.
• International Food Booths: The French Quarter Courtyard is stocked with global dishes and classic New Orleans favorites, including freshly baked beignets and themed cocktails.
• Prince Gator: New for 2026, this original character is available for meet-and-greets near the Wave outside Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show throughout the season.
• TonTon’s Roadhouse Tribute Store: The Mardi Gras 2026 Tribute Store features themed rooms, exclusive merchandise, and unique food items.

Mardi Gras is one of the best values at Universal Orlando since it is included with park admission — no separate ticket required.

Epic Universe Updates

Universal Epic Universe, which opened in May 2025, is now in its first full year of operation. February brings one notable refurbishment:

• Fyre Drill: The Dark Universe attraction closed on February 1 for its first major refurbishment since the park opened. The ride faced recurring operational challenges throughout 2025. Universal initially targeted a February 8 reopening but has since extended the refurbishment, with Fyre Drill now expected to reopen on February 14, 2026.

All other Epic Universe attractions — including Monsters Unchained, Battle at the Ministry, Stardust Racers, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, and Donkey Kong Mine Cart — remain open and operating.

Starting in 2026, Universal has transitioned to a standard “All Parks” ticketing model. Guests with multi-day Park-to-Park tickets no longer face the single-day Epic Universe restriction from 2025, meaning you can now park-hop freely between all four parks in a single day.

Ride Closures and Refurbishments

Several attractions across Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure are scheduled for temporary maintenance in February 2026:

• Revenge of the Mummy — Universal Studios Florida: Closed January 27 through early February for a scheduled refurbishment. The indoor coaster, which has been operating since 2004, is expected back shortly.
• Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast — Universal Studios Florida: Down for a single day during February for routine maintenance.
• Hogwarts Express: Closed February 9 through February 23, 2026, for its annual refurbishment. Plan for a longer walk between parks during this window, as the train connecting Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will not be operating.
• Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift: The new roller coaster currently under construction at Universal Studios Florida continues to take shape. It is not a closure — it is an entirely new attraction still being built.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay goes fully cashless starting February 25, 2026. All purchases inside the water park will require credit card, debit card, mobile payment, or a TapuTapu wearable loaded with a payment method. If you are visiting after that date, make sure you have a digital payment option ready.

Note that Volcano Bay has experienced some weather-related closures in early February due to cold temperatures affecting Central Florida water parks. Check the Universal Orlando app the morning of your visit for the latest operating status.

CityWalk and Dining

If you are visiting Universal Orlando around Valentine’s Day, CityWalk has several dining options for a date night. The Mardi Gras After Party also brings extra entertainment to CityWalk on select nights, including DJs, stilt walkers, and exclusive drink offerings at Pat O’Brien’s and the Cursed Coconut Club (the seasonal transformation of Red Coconut Club).

What to Know Before You Go

Here are a few tips for visiting Universal Orlando in February 2026:

• Mardi Gras concerts are free with admission but arrive early for a good spot at the Music Plaza Stage on concert nights.
• Hogwarts Express is down February 9–23. If riding between parks is important to your plan, schedule around this window.
• Epic Universe park hopping is now standard. Multi-day Park-to-Park tickets give full access to all four parks without restrictions.
• February weather in Orlando averages highs around 75°F and lows in the mid-50s. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
• Crowds: February is historically one of the slower months at Universal Orlando, though Epic Universe has shifted crowd patterns. Weekdays are your best bet for shorter wait times.

For more on planning your Universal Orlando trip, check out our Disney World vs. Universal Orlando comparison to see which resort fits your vacation style.

Source: Universal Orlando Blog, Universal Orlando Resort