Mardi Gras kicks off at Universal Studios Florida

February 4, 2017, 12:05 PM · Universal Orlando today kicks off its annual late winter concert and food festival — Mardi Gras.

Headlined by 12 major concerts between tonight and the event's conclusion on March 25, Mardi Gras gets going with Trace Adkins on the main stage at Universal Studios Florida tonight. Other acts appearing on the main stage will include NE-YO, Collective Soul, X Ambassadors, Fifth Harmony, Yandel, Olivia Newton-John, UB40, Toby Keith, Jason Derulo, Earth, Wind & Fire, and The All-American Rejects. (Here's the schedule.)

Whether there's a major concert or not, each day of Mardi Gras also will feature Cajun food and New Orleans bands in the park's French Quarter Courtyard (set up in the New York section of the park) as well as a nightly (family friendly) Mardi Gras parade. Universal is featuring six new floats in this year's parade. Here's a first look, from the resort:

All Mardi Gras events are included with Universal Studios Florida admission.

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Replies (3)

February 4, 2017 at 12:19 PM · Because, why not? For Orlando locals or those who visit Central Florida in what's left of the "off season," which major resort event this month is your favorite?

February 4, 2017 at 3:03 PM · Why? The real Mardi Gras started parades 1/6/17 (Kings' Day) and runs until midnight on 3/25/17 in New Orleans. People either go to Mardi Gras or go for Mardi Gras (leaving town & the crowds for WDW or Aspen slopes.
February 5, 2017 at 8:47 AM · Are they charging for parking after 6 PM during Mardi Gras.

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