I’m A Huge Theme Park Parade Fan, And One World Class Event Can Be Seen At Universal Orlando Starting This Month

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In the realm of theme parks, all eyes are currently fixed on Universal Orlando Resort. The upcoming launch of Epic Universe within a few months is considered one of the most significant events in the industry for many years, marking the first major theme park debut in a generation. However, it’s not as if the resort is simply idling in anticipation. In fact, this year marks the 30th anniversary of Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration, and this particular event promises to be the biggest yet.

Previously, I’d visited Universal Orlando during Mardi Gras, but in essence, this year’s experience was my inaugural immersion into the event’s true spirit. It surpassed all expectations. The aspects that make theme parks appealing – the food, the live shows – were elevated beyond belief.

My Last Mardi Gras Experience Was A Fraction Of The Total Event

Previously, I visited Universal Orlando Resort on Mardi Gras occasion in 2021. While the resort was operational, the event was significantly scaled down due to the ongoing pandemic. The usual concerts and parades were absent, transforming it into a primarily food festival. Each booth showcased the unique culinary offerings from various countries that celebrate Carnival.

Four years ago, Mardi Gras was a celebration I adored, and the food remains one of its most enticing aspects, then and now. This year, China joins the party as a new food booth, while India returns. Whether Mardi Gras or Carnivale are big in those countries doesn’t matter much to me; what truly counts is the delectable cuisine on offer.

This year, I was thrilled at the prospect of fully immersing myself in Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration. Having missed out on certain aspects during my previous visit, I looked forward to making up for lost time. Interestingly, those floats that I had glimpsed before were displayed as stationary exhibits in 2021. It goes without saying that experiencing them statically is quite different from the real thing.

The Universal Mardi Gras Parade Is Not To Be Missed

I must say, the Mardi Gras parade at the theme park was simply extraordinary – it ranks among the finest parades I’ve ever witnessed, and as you may know, I hold great affection for parades. The floats were gigantic, vibrant, and meticulously crafted, reminiscent of those in a real Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. In fact, they were designed by Kern Studios right there in the city. The atmosphere was alive with the sounds of brass bands and countless characters dressed up in costumes, including some on stilts. Simply put, it was an unforgettable spectacle!

Before the parade, some characters can be found strolling around the park, offering guests an up-close encounter and photo opportunities.

Instead of merely an exhibition of fascinating items, it’s more like a vibrant, energetic spectacle where music and characters spread joy contagiously among the crowd. In no time, people are enjoying themselves to the fullest, even as bead necklaces thrown from the floats get tangled around them. Keep your eyes open, or you might find yourself unexpectedly adorned with one of those flying necklaces!

Mardi Gras isn’t like a typical nighttime parade with integrated float illumination as seen in the Main Street Electrical Parade or Paint the Night Parade. However, the way they light up the parade to make it stand out against the darkness is exceptionally skillful.

The Mardi Gras Parade in 2025 is a grand spectacle commemorating the last three decades, featuring some of the most impressive floats from past years, as well as exciting new elements. Whether you’ve attended it before or not, it’s definitely worth another look. The festivities at Universal Orlando Resort are ongoing until March 30, celebrating Mardi Gras.

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2025-02-04 02:07