Let the good times roll at Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval!
The 2025 celebration goes beyond the bayous of New Orleans to honor Carnival traditions from around the world. This year, the beloved Universal Orlando Resort event returns from February 1 to March 30.
Here’s what you can expect this spring.
A Bombastic Parade
Universal Studios Florida hosts the biggest, most authentic Mardi Gras parade in Orlando. Line up along the parade route to catch beads from colorful, elaborate floats.
Want to immerse yourself in the action? Then the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience is your golden ticket. Ride in style on a show-stopping float and indulge in a three-course meal from your choice of eight Universal restaurants.
The parade takes place on select nights during Universal’s Mardi Gras.
Nightly Jams
Throughout the event, the sounds of authentic New Orleans jazz fills the theme park.
The Music Plaza Stage will also host live concerts on select nights featuring big names in music. Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025 concert lineup.
Past performers have included popular artists and bands like DJ Khaled, Ava Max, The All-American Rejects, and Luis Fonsi.
The concert series is included with general park admission.
International Flavors
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Universal Orlando has a treat to satisfy your craving.
While the specific menu changes annually, you can expect to find festive fare and cultural cuisine from around the globe.
In 2024, event attendees enjoyed traditional Cajun dishes like crawfish boil or beignets as well as coconut curry shrimp laksa and samosas.
Prepare your palates for the mouthwatering details of this year’s food offerings coming soon.
Mardi Gras Beads and Decorations
If you didn’t catch enough free beads from the parade, grab a souvenir to mark the occasion at the Mardi Gras Tribute Store. When you step inside this immersive retail experience, you’re transported to the heart of the bayou.
As you shop and visit each room in the store, you’re taken on a voyage that merges the real world with a ghostly one. From masks to sweet treats and jazzy decor, you’re sure to find something worth taking home (or biting into) inside the store.
Roll on Over to Rosen Shingle Creek
After a day of catching beads, dazzling parades, and immersing yourself in the energy of Universal’s Mardi Gras, you’ll want a comfortable retreat to recharge. Extend the magic of your Orlando vacation by choosing Rosen Shingle Creek as your homebase.
Our hotel provides affordable, luxurious rooms near International Drive and Orlando’s must-see attractions. As our guest, you’ll enjoy complimentary scheduled shuttle service to Universal so you can easily join the party.
Book your stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, and let the good times keep rollin’!
