Guide to Riding a Mardi Gras Float at Universal Orlando’s 2026 Celebration

Courtesy Universal Orlando Resort

If your idea of a perfect night includes glitter in the air, beads flying everywhere, and a plate of something saucy and delicious in your hands, go ahead and circle these dates. From February 7 through April 4, 2026, Universal Orlando Resort is bringing back Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval to Universal Studios Florida, and it is shaping up to be one of the most colorful parties of the year.

Picture it. You are strolling through the park at sunset while the music gets louder, the floats roll out, and performers in feathered costumes work the crowd. Each night, Universal will put on a Mardi Gras parade with glittering floats, high-energy street performers, and mountains of beads. On select nights, the party levels up even more with live performances from some of the biggest names in music, turning the park into a full-on outdoor concert.

Of course, this is Mardi Gras, so the food is just as important as the festivities. Universal is once again going global with an international Carnaval menu that lets you snack your way around the world, plus a lineup of dishes inspired by the bold, soulful flavors of New Orleans. Think spice, smoke, sweetness and a little heat in every bite. This is the kind of event where you might start with something inspired by a Brazilian street festival, move on to a Creole classic, then finish with dessert that tastes like a French Quarter vacation.

The Float Ride and Dine Experience

If you want to level up from spectator to full-on participant, Universal is bringing back the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which is basically the VIP upgrade of your parade dreams.

Here is how it works. On the day of your visit, you sit down to a three-course meal that includes:

• One appetizer

• One entrée

• One dessert

• One non-alcoholic beverage

You can choose from five participating restaurants:

• The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar at Universal CityWalk

• NBC Sports Grill & Brew at Universal CityWalk

• Lombard’s Seafood Grille at Universal Studios Florida

• Confisco Grille at Universal Islands of Adventure (2-park ticket required)

• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Restaurant at Universal CityWalk (dinner only)

After you have cleaned your plate, the real fun begins. You will get a reserved spot on a Mardi Gras parade float, complete with a stash of beads to throw as you roll through the park. It is about as close as you can get to New Orleans without leaving I-4. You are not just watching the parade. You are part of it.

The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience is available now starting at $94.99 plus tax per person. To reserve your spot, you can call 407-224-7554 or head to their website. Universal Orlando Passholders get a 15 percent discount off the ticket price when purchasing online, at the front gate, at Guest Services in the parks, or by calling the same number, with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass and photo ID.

Let the Good Times Roll

One of the best parts for locals and regulars. Universal Mardi Gras is included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida, or with a valid Universal Orlando Annual or Seasonal Pass, although blockout dates apply. So if you already have passes in your wallet, you are practically halfway to the party.

Universal will reveal even more details as we get closer to 2026, including the full food and beverage menu and that always anticipated concert line-up. For now, you can start plotting your ideal evening, from where you will eat to which float you hope to ride.

Beads, bites, and big-time performances in your own backyard. Sounds like a very Orlando way to kick off 2026.