More than twenty years ago, Universal Resorts in Orlando decided to celebrate Mardi Gras or "Fat Tuesday" and created their own parade, food and drink specials, and a concert series that has become almost as famous as their annual Halloween celebration, Halloween Horror Nights. Over the years, hundreds of musical acts have graced the stage, and each year from February through March the musical lineup is full of a combination of up-and-coming acts and seasoned favorites. Mardi Gras 2022 isn't any different beginning with Sugar Ray, ending with Jason Derulo and peppering Styx, Becky G, Gavin DeGraw, Marshmello, etc. throughout.
Besides a comprehensive list of musical acts that have "something for everyone, the event also boasts a parade of floats with Mardi Gras beads tossed out to the guests along the parade route. The floats are bright and colorful and generally adhere to the Mardi Gras theme with green, purple, and gold accents, and decorations were strewn throughout the park.
Of course, no Universal event would be complete without some specialty drinks and food. This year's offerings include Category 5 Punch, Pina Verde, and Abita Purple Haze along with a selection of wines varying on the section of the park in which you find yourself. For the more adventurous palates, each location has foods based on their location. Some examples include Central America's Food truck offering of Papas Bravas, London's Creole Crab Beignets, San Francisco's Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche or Conch Fritters and New Orleans Crawfish and Shrimp boil. Not to be forgotten, a meal wouldn't be complete without dessert and guests can choose between King Cake, Beignets, and Mardi Gras Marshmallow Pie, amongst other savory treats.
While any day at Universal Orlando Resorts and Theme parks is always enjoyable, these limited-time events are special and, like New Orleans' Mardi Gras festivities, should be celebrated at least once in life, if not multiple times.
