Orlando · Universal · Events

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras With Kids: Dates, Parade, and How to Plan

By Janet
Updated June 2026 · 6 min read

When people hear "Mardi Gras" they picture the wild version, but Universal Orlando's take is genuinely family-friendly: a big colorful parade, beads flying, live music, and Cajun food, all the fun without the French Quarter chaos. And here's the best part, it's included with regular park admission.

When is it?

Official 2027 dates aren't out yet, but Universal Mardi Gras typically runs from early February into early April on select nights (the 2026 celebration ran February 7 through April 4). I'll update this once 2027 is confirmed.

Included with admission: the parade, concerts, and street party come with your regular Universal Studios Florida ticket, no separate event ticket needed. That makes it one of the best-value events in Orlando.

What to expect

The nightly parade, dozens of vibrant floats built in New Orleans, with performers tossing beads to the crowd. Catching beads is a total kid highlight.
Live concerts at the Music Plaza Stage (usually around 8:30 pm), included with admission.
An International Flavors street party with Cajun and global eats (pay as you go).
Costumed characters and photo ops along the route.

A parent's game plan

Stake out a parade spot early along the route so the kids can see (and catch beads).
Bring a small bag for all the beads you'll go home with.
Do the rides during the day, parade at night, and plan a break in between so nobody melts down.
Ear protection for little ones sensitive to the concert volume.
A light layer, February evenings can be cool.

Pack for a park night

The comfy shoes, layers, portable charger, and stroller fan I bring to Universal are in my Amazon storefront.

See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Where to stay

Make it a weekend. For a relaxed pool afternoon, here's my resort day pass trick, and for a room booked last minute, how I score Orlando hotels for less.

Plan the rest

See every seasonal event in my Orlando family events calendar, and if you're doing the new park too, here's Epic Universe with kids.

Frequently asked questions

Is Universal Mardi Gras family-friendly?

Yes. It's the fun parts, parade, beads, music, and food, without the rowdy adult scene. Kids and grandparents can all enjoy it.

Do I need a separate ticket for Mardi Gras?

No. The parade, concerts, and street party are included with regular Universal Studios Florida admission. Food and drinks cost extra.

When is Universal Mardi Gras 2027?

Dates aren't confirmed yet. It typically runs select nights from early February into early April, verify on Universal's official site once announced.

Heads up: some links in this post are affiliate links, including my Amazon storefront, ResortPass, and Hotel Tonight, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy or book through them, at no extra cost to you. 2027 dates are expected but not confirmed, verify on the official Universal site.

Janet

Orlando mom of two and the creator behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real Orlando fun and deals I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.

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Sources: Universal Orlando Mardi Gras, Orlando Informer. 2027 dates unconfirmed; verify on the official site.