Universal Orlando Resort is ready to let the good times roll once again as Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns February 7 through April 4, 2026 at Universal Studios Florida.
This year’s celebration brings back everything fans love about Mardi Gras at Universal: a vibrant New Orleans–inspired parade, more than 40 internationally inspired food and drink items, and live concerts on select nights featuring major names like Bebe Rexha, Zedd, and The All-American Rejects. Best of all, access to the festivities is included with regular park admission.
Live Concerts Headline Mardi Gras Nights
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras concert series will feature 11 live performances from a mix of pop, rock, hip-hop, Latin, and electronic artists. Performances take place on select nights throughout the event.
Universal Mardi Gras 2026 Concert Lineup
- February 7 – Kaskade
- February 14 – Portugal. The Man
- February 15 – Ivy Queen
- February 21 – Joey Fatone & AJ McLean
- February 28 – RuPaul (DJ Set)
- March 7 – Shaggy
- March 13 – Tyler Hubbard
- March 14 – Bebe Rexha
- March 15 – Zedd
- March 21 – Barenaked Ladies
- March 28 – The All-American Rejects
Concerts are held at Universal Studios Florida and are included with park admission.
A Dazzling Mardi Gras Parade
The spirit of New Orleans takes over the streets of Universal Studios Florida with a spectacular Mardi Gras parade featuring 12 hand-crafted floats inspired by New Orleans culture, food, music, beads, and the bayou. High-energy performers, live music, and flying beads turn the park into a nightly celebration.
Guests can elevate their experience with the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which includes a three-course meal and a reserved spot riding on a parade float. Reservations are available at UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.
International Flavors and New Orleans Classics
Food is a major highlight of Universal Mardi Gras, and 2026 delivers with dishes inspired by 12 countries around the world, plus classic New Orleans favorites.
Menu highlights include:
- Baked Cajun Mac & Cheese
- Ham, Brie, and Berry Crepe
- Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel
- Pinchos de Lechon
- New Orleans Beignets
- The fan-favorite Cat 5 drink
Guests can sample food throughout the park at themed kiosks and select restaurants.
To taste more and save more, Universal is offering a Food and Beverage Card, including:
- $75 value for $65
- Exclusive Passholder option: $150 value for $120
Cards can be used at all Universal Orlando theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
New Mardi Gras Tribute Store
An all-new Mardi Gras Tribute Store located in the Hollywood area of the theme park, featuring elaborately-themed rooms inspired by the neon glow of Baron Tonton’s Roadhouse, the winding pathways of the boroughs of New Orleans, and the colorful and vibrant energy of the French Quarter. As guests make their way through the retail space, they can shop this year’s expansive collection of merchandise that is bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever before. Signature items include a Baron Tonton shoulder pal, headband, and apparel; neon-infused items designed to celebrate the lively streets, and beignet keychains and plush keepsakes.
New character
A fun new meet‑and‑greet with the arrival of Prince Gator, the son of the fan‑favorite King Gator, who is brought to life year after year as a float in the Mardi Gras parade. Guests of all ages can meet, interact, and take photos with him throughout the season at the Wave outside of Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show.
Keep the Party Going at CityWalk and Universal Hotels
Food from all hotels across UO
Mardi Gras food
Mardi Gras fun extends beyond the parks with themed food, drinks, and entertainment across Universal CityWalk and Universal Orlando’s hotels. Highlights include:
- Bourbon Street Beignets at Hard Rock Hotel
- Korean Cajun Jambalaya at Universal Aventura Hotel
- Voodoo Street Fries at Universal Endless Summer Resort
On select nights, CityWalk offerings include live entertainment, DJs, stilt walkers, Mardi Gras After Parties at Pat O’Brien’s, and the seasonal transformation of the Red Coconut Club into the Cursed Coconut Club.
Hotel guests also enjoy perks like Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation.
Special Annual Passholder Offers
Starting January 15, guests who purchase any 2-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass can receive three months free. Passholders also receive Mardi Gras-exclusive perks, including:
- Discounts on food and hotel stays
- Access to exclusive menu items
- A designated parade viewing area
- Early access to the Mardi Gras Tribute Store and Cursed Coconut Club
Current Passholders can also save 15% on the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience and up to 30% on select Universal Orlando hotels.
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval runs February 7 through April 4, 2026, and is included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida. For full details, concert dates, menus, and ticket options, visit UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.