In early February, Universal Orlando Resort brought a slice of the Big Easy to the Orlando International Airport with a surprise pop-up event called Universal's Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. Located inside the airport's brand new Terminal C, the event featured lively Mardi Gras performers, stilt walkers, and a five-piece brass band that welcomed guests as they arrived in Orlando, Florida. This preview event offered a taste of what visitors can expect when they visit the Universal Orlando Resort to experience the full Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval event.
The Universal Mardi Gras event is an annual fan-favorite that takes place at the Universal Orlando Resort and is now open through April 16. The festivities feature a dazzling parade, inspired by the world-famous New Orleans Mardi Gras, along with international cuisine from various Carnaval celebrations around the globe, and star-studded live concerts on select nights. This year's event boasts a line-up of more than 50 dishes and drinks from around the world, including fan-favorite beignets, Puerto Rican mofongo, and Colombian empanadas.
This year's Mardi Gras parade features six vibrant floats, all decorated with bright colors, lights, and traditional Mardi Gras beads. Each float represents a different country, including Brazil, Cuba, and Italy, and features performers, stilt walkers, and dancers dressed in colorful costumes. The parade culminates with the arrival of the King and Queen of Carnaval, who are crowned on a giant stage in the Universal Studios Florida park. The crowning ceremony is a highlight of the event and is accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display.
In addition to the parade and international cuisine, Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval also includes live concerts on select nights featuring popular performers such as Jason Derulo, Luis Fonsi, and Marshmello. The concerts take place in the Universal Studios Florida park and are included with regular admission to the park.
Conveniently located just 10 miles away from Universal Orlando Resort, the Orlando International Airport is a gateway to the area and welcomes over 47 million passengers annually. The surprise appearance of Universal's Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval at the airport was a fun and exciting way to welcome visitors to the city and get them excited for the full event at the resort.
For more information about Universal's Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, visitors can check out the official website at www.UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras.
