Universal Orlando will be transformed into the "Big Easy" and kick off its annual one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration February 11, 2012. The ultimate street party continues select nights, through April 14. In addition, each week the Mardi Gras 2012 Concert Series showcases some of the world's hottest musical performers, including Kelly Clarkson, Boyz II Men, Cyndi Lauper and KC & The Sunshine Band.
The Mardi Gras 2012 Concert Series will also feature The B-52s, Diana Ross, B.o.B, Plain White T's, Prince Royce and more.
Universal's Mardi Gras fuses the party atmosphere of the famous New Orleans' festival with the opportunity to experience the over-the-top theme park attractions that Universal Orlando is known for. The result is an event that includes one of the largest parades in Florida, confetti, New Orleans-style cuisine and... beads, beads and more beads!
Everyone will agree that the centerpiece of Mardi Gras is the parade. For more than 15 years the parade has been the centerpiece of Universal's Mardi Gras celebration. This year, elaborately themed floats will take guests on a journey through the earth's different ecosystems, including bayous and swamps, rainforest, coral reefs, the deep blue sea and polar regions.
Of course, the party wouldn't be complete without the taste of authentic Cajun and Creole classics such a jambalaya, gumbo and beignets, which are sure to tempt the palate of Mardi Gras partiers. And, along with mouth-watering food, guests can sip on party drinks made famous in New Orleans.
2012 Concert Series
After the parade be entertained by some of today's hottest internationally-known musicians during the Mardi Gras Concert Series performing in the Music Plaza:
Saturday, February 11 - The B-52s
Saturday, February 18 - Kelly Clarkson
Sunday, February 19 - Boyz II Men
Saturday, February 25 - Diana Ross
Saturday, March 3 - TBA
Saturday, March 10 - Big Time Rush
Friday, March 16 - J. Cole
Saturday, March 17 - Jill Scott
Friday, March 23 - Hot Chelle Rae
Saturday, March 24 - B.o.B
Friday, March 30 - Plain White T's
Satuarday, March 31 - Prince Royce
Saturday, April 7 - Cyndi Lauper
Saturday, April 14 - KC & the Sunshine Band
New Orleans Bands performing in the French Quarter include:
Saturday, February 11 - The Daddy Mack Blues Band
Saturday, February 18 - Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Sunday, February 19 - Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Saturday, February 25 - John Lisi & Delta Funk
Saturday, March 3 - Beth McKee & The Sliders
Saturday, March 10 - Gravy
Friday, March 16 - Lil' Brian & the Zydeco Travelers
Saturday, March 17 - Lil' Brian & the Zydeco Travelers
Friday, March 23 - J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts
Saturday, March 24 - J.J. Caillier & the Zydeco Knockouts
Friday, March 30 - Soul Project
Satuarday, March 31 - Soul Project
Saturday, April 7 - Rockin Jake
Saturday, April 14 - Big Al & The Heavy weights
Ticket Information
Mardi Gras is included in admission to Universal Studios. Guests can save by purchasing tickets online in advance. Visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.
Florida Residents can save up to $25 on any Annual Pass and enjoy an entire year of thrills, including Mardi Gras!
- PowerPass - $154.99 (plus tax) after savings
- Preferred Pass - $199.99 (plus tax) after savings
- Premier Pass - $324.99 (plus tax) after savings
- Offer is also available on Universal Orlando's monthly payment option, FlexPay
- Passes must be purchased and activated by April 15, 2012 with specially-marked Coca-Cola and Wendy's products
Florida Resident Mardi Gras Getaway starts at $109 per adult, per night (tax inclusive) or upgrade to an on-site hotel and receive complimentary Universal Express access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks. The basic package includes:
- Two-nights accommodations at nearby Universal partner hotel
- Florida resident two-day park-to-park ticket to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
- Early park admission to select attractions in Islands of Adventure
The after 5 p.m. ticket offer includes admission to Universal Studios Flordia for one night after 5 p.m. to enjoy Mardi Gras festivities and attractions. The price is $59.99 (plus tax) if purchase in advance or $74.99 (plus tax) at the front gate.
Use these tips for visiting Universal Orlando in February to help you plan your vacation.
