Get ready for beads and beignets, folks, because Mardi Gras is hitting Universal Orlando with a bang next year. Scheduled to run from February 7 through April 4, 2026, the park's Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval promises a nightly parade, live concerts on select nights, and an array of Carnaval-inspired dishes at food kiosks, as reported by FOX35 Orlando.
Those who have been waiting to snag a golden ticket to ride aboard a Mardi Gras float can breathe a sigh of relief. Universal is bringing back the Float Ride and Dine Experience, setting attendees back $94.99 a pop—unless you're a passholder, which scores you a 15% discount, Orlando Magazine detailed. This package is not just a parade spot; it includes a three-course meal at one of five participating restaurants.
The excitement doesn't stop there. You can anticipate vibrant floats, street performers, and the elusive promise of big-name musical acts lighting up the stage. While Universal still keeps concertgoers on their tippy-toes by not releasing the lineup, past performers have included blasts from the music past like T-Pain and Diana Ross.
The Mardi Gras spectacle is accessible with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida, which should be music to the ears of the annual passholders among us or anyone lucky enough to have a ticket into Universal's whimsical world, says Orlando Magazine.
