8 Reasons Universal Orlando Resort's Mardi Gras Is The Best Theme Park Event Of The Year
6. The Parade Is One Of The Funnest Things You Can Experience
Universal's Mardi Gras parade is undoubtedly one of best of its kind. There's beads, confetti and even fire! You might think you know what a theme park parade is like, but Universal's Mardi Gras parade is a whole different beast.
The magnificent floats that line the route are just like ones that you would see in New Orleans' own Mardi Gras parade. In fact they are even created by the same people, making them the real deal.
This year's parade is themed to the elements, with floats based on Earth, Wind, Fire and Air. With dancers in beautiful costumes preceding each float. Familiar floats that appear each year also make a return including one celebrating the nightly King and Queen and the huge King Gator float at the rear.
As the parade winds through the New York and Hollywood areas of Universal Studios Florida, bursts of confetti and even fire erupt from the floats, making the parade a spectacular sight.
Just like in New Orleans, riders of the floats throw beads to the dancing crowd below. This parade is completely interactive as the entertainers in front of the floats encourage dancing and singing.
If being below catching beads is fun, then riding in the parade is somehow even better. It's an experience that any guest can enjoy.
Those who want to secure a spot on the nightly parade floats can choose to enjoy the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience. For $85 plus tax, guests get to enjoy a three course meal at one of Universal's restaurants then take up a spot on the parade. Having experienced riding on a parade float we think this is definitely worth doing. Especially if you are an Annual Passholder as there is a 15% discount.
If you don't want to book the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience then you can try and bag a waitlist spot. This means if there's a free spot on the parade then you might get lucky enough to take part. Annual Passholders also have the opportunity to join a virtual waitlist.
Universal's Mardi Gras parade is the jewel in the event's crown and worth a trip to Universal Studios Florida to experience.