Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled full details for its Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval 2026 celebration, including a star-studded concert series, a vibrant street parade, and an enticing world-food programme — all included with regular theme-park admission. The festivities will run daily from 7th February through 4th April at Universal Studios Florida, bringing a taste of New Orleans and global culture to central Florida.
This year’s live-music schedule spans 11 nights and features a diverse mix of performers ranging from pop and rock to reggae, electronic and country. Concerts take place on the Music Plaza Stage on select evenings throughout the event, giving guests free access to headline acts as part of their park ticket.
The complete concert lineup is as follows:
- 7th February: Kaskade (electronic dance music)
- 14th February: Portugal. The Man (rock)
- 15th February: Ivy Queen (Latin music)
- 21st February: Joey Fatone & AJ McLean (pop-nostalgia duet)
- 28th February: RuPaul (DJ set)
- 7th March: Shaggy (reggae fusion)
- 13th March: Tyler Hubbard (country)
- 14th March: Bebe Rexha (pop)
- 15th March: Zedd (Grammy-winning EDM producer)
- 21st March: Barenaked Ladies (rock/pop)
- 28th March: The All-American Rejects (alternative rock)
Beyond the concert series, Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration features a nightly Mardi Gras parade with more than a dozen hand-crafted floats inspired by New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage. Street performers, energetic music, sparkling beads and the sounds of live brass are woven into the procession that winds through the park each evening.
Food lovers will find plenty to savour as well. The International Flavors of Carnaval menu offers more than 40 dishes from around the world, alongside beloved New Orleans classics. Guests can sample Cajun-style mac and cheese, French crepes, Vienna-style pork schnitzel, Chinese mala beef skewers and traditional beignets, among other international and local flavours available at kiosks throughout Universal Studios.
Universal is also bringing back the popular Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, a separately ticketed package that includes a three-course meal at participating restaurants and a reserved position on one of the Mardi Gras floats during the parade. This option gives guests the opportunity to toss beads and soak in the parade atmosphere from a front-row perch.
For those who want keepsakes, the Mardi Gras Tribute Store in the Hollywood section of the park returns with new theming and exclusive merchandise for 2026. The resort’s hotels and CityWalk venues will also participate in the fun with special seasonal food, drink and entertainment on select nights.
Walking through the streets of Universal Studios Florida during Mardi Gras means experiencing a blend of Carnival spirit and Orlando thrill — all without needing an extra ticket. With headliners covering a wide range of musical tastes, the event is shaping up to be one of Universal’s liveliest seasonal celebrations yet.