This Is One of the Best Mardi Gras Celebrations Outside New Orleans-What to Know

"Since 1995, thousands have headed not to New Orleans, but to Orlando to celebrate Mardi Gras. That's thanks to Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras, a time-honored tradition where Universal Studios Florida theme park comes alive with entertainment, colorful parade floats, global cuisine, and an all-around energetic atmosphere. The celebration brings the spirit of the Big Easy to central Florida through colorful decor and traditional music."

"The crown jewel of the celebration is the dazzling parade that shows each evening. The spectacle features live performers, dancers, and elaborate parade floats. Authenticity is at its core, with the vividly colorful floats crafted by Kern Studios, the company behind New Orleans' Mardi Gras parades. Throughout the parade, thousands of beads are thrown into the crowds. Pro tip: Secure a prime spot along the parade route at least 30 minutes prior."

Since 1995, Universal Studios Florida in Orlando hosts an annual Mardi Gras celebration that attracts thousands. The event recreates New Orleans atmosphere with colorful decor, traditional music, and global cuisine including beignets. The nightly parade features live performers, dancers, and elaborate floats crafted by Kern Studios, and thousands of beads are tossed into crowds. Free concerts with national artists occur on select evenings. Streetmosphere performers include costumed stilt walkers and a strolling brass band, and guests can meet walk-around character Prince Gator. The Mardi Gras Tribute Store offers immersive themed rooms and exclusive merchandise, making the event a top bucket-list experience.

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