The Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval 2026 parade runs nightly at Universal Studios Florida from February 7 through April 4, 2026. The event is included with regular theme park admission or an annual pass.
Universal Mardi Gras Parade 2026
Parade Route
The parade begins next to the Universal Horror Make-Up Show in Hollywood. It travels through Production Central, New York, and ends where it started.
Passholders
Passholders can watch the parade from a special viewing area reserved just for them, located at Mel’s Drive-In, available Thursday through Sunday.
Universal Rewards Visa Signature Cardmembers
Universal Rewards Visa Signature Cardmembers can watch the parade from a dedicated viewing area located in front of Schwab’s Pharmacy. This reserved space is offered nightly from Feb. 7 through Apr. 4, 2026. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A valid Universal Rewards Visa Signature Card or Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card must be presented for entry.
Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience
A small number of visitors will have the opportunity dine on a 3-course meal and enjoy a spot on a Mardi Gras Parade float. Float spots are limited. Purchase must be made 24 hours prior to the event date. The experience starts at $94.99 per person, plus tax, with gratuity included. Separate, same-day theme park admission required.
All riders must be:
- At least 48” in height and able to board the float and stand for the duration of the parade
- 18 or older (or accompanied by their legal guardian)
- Able to transfer to a Universal‐provided wheelchair
Mardi Gras 2026 Parade Times at Universal Orlando Resort
5:00 p.m.
- February 11, 3
6:00 p.m.
- February 27,
- March 6, 10, 20,
7:00 p.m.
- February 7-10, 12-26, 28,
- March 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-9, 11-19, 21-31
- April 1-4
Pre-Parade Meet and Greets
In the hours before the parade’s start, some performers roam the streets of New York, posing for photos and handing out beads.
Universal Mardi Gras Parade 2026 Floats
On the ground are many performers, including dancers, stilt-walkers, and the Beads & Brass band.
The peacock wears a golden crown and has a light-up collar.
This float is a King Cake, which represents a brioche-style pastry that symbolizes justice, faith, and power. The King Baby represents the hidden plastic baby, where the finder receives luck and prosperity.
Universal’s Mardi Gras parade floats are designed and built in partnership with Kern Studios, which also makes the Mardi Gras floats of New Orleans.
A Taste of Mardi Gras float with a shrimp Po’ boy on the side.
On this returning float, an airboat sits on the front of the swamp float. An alligator wearing a life vest and sunglasses is driving the airboat.
The parade ends with the iconic King Gator float. The gator is covered in colorful, sparkly scales and has strings of beads hanging from its teeth and a giant bead strand around its neck. A crown sits on his head.
The base of the King Gator float is made to look like brick walls, adorned with a large glowing fleurs-de-lys and lampposts featuring “Mardi Gras” signs.
Mardi Gras 2026 Parade Video
Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval is from February 7 through April 4, 2026.
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