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Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval kicks off

Event runs through April 7 at Universal Studios Florida

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WKMG

Universal Orlando Resort’s seasonal celebration, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval kicks off. This year’s parade features six new floats inspired by elements like Earth, wind, water, fire, the sun and moon. The collection of new floats will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats to complete this year’s vibrant parade.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to experience the vibrant celebration of Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.

Running now through April 7. this year’s festivities showcase a diverse menu inspired by New Orleans favorites and global Carnaval flavors, along with a Mardi Gras parade featuring new floats and live concerts by top artists like DJ Khaled, Ava Max, and Luis Fonsi – all included with regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida.

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Mardi Gras Concert Lineup

Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval (Universal Orlando)

Featuring 10 live performances, including DJ Khaled, Ava Max, and Luis Fonsi, the concert series unfolds on select nights at the Music Plaza stage, located in front of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster.

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2024 concert lineup includes:

  • Feb. 3: Walker Hayes
  • Feb. 10: The All-American Rejects
  • Feb. 17: Nessa Barrett
  • Feb. 18: KC and the Sunshine Band
  • Feb. 24: Barenaked Ladies
  • March 2: DJ Khaled
  • March 9: Ava Max
  • March 10: Queen Latifah
  • March 16: Luis Fonsi
  • March 17: Zedd

New Elements Parade Theme

Universal Orlando Resort’s seasonal celebration, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval kicks off. This year’s parade features six new floats inspired by elements like Earth, wind, water, fire, the sun and moon. The collection of new floats will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats to complete this year’s vibrant parade. (WKMG)

The Mardi Gras parade is also returning for this year’s popular event. Universal said this year’s parade brings six new floats to life inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun, and the moon, alongside traditional New Orleans-inspired floats, featuring high-energy music and elaborate costumes. The parade will travel through Universal Studios Florida on select nights of the celebration.

Universal Orlando is also giving guests the opportunity to ride on a Mardi Gras float. A limited number of spots are available per night, and reservations will be given out via a Virtual Line experience in the Official Universal Orlando app.

Taste the International Flavors of Carnaval

Puerto Rico (Universal Orlando Resort)

Guests can savor over 60 tasting-sized items inspired by Carnaval celebrations from around the world. From Spain to China - Universal said the event will feature a flavor for everyone. Some of the items on the menu include Fried Green Tomato Po’boy and the fan-favorite fluffy beignets from New Orleans, Chicken Schnitzel from Germany, and so much more.

Leaders said the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card offers savings on these culinary delights.

Mardi Gras ticket offers

  • Florida and Georgia residents get two days free with the purchase of a 2-Park, 1-Day ticket – allowing them three days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.
  • U.S., Canada and Latin America residents can enjoy two free days of admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure with the purchase of a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket – giving them four days of theme park thrills.
  • Universal annual and seasonal passholders receive exclusive event perks, including a complimentary Mardi Gras-themed magnet, access to a special viewing area to enjoy the Mardi Gras parade, food and beverage discounts up to 15% off, special merchandise and more. Click here to learn more about Universal Orlando annual passes.

Click here for more information about Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.

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