What it's Like to Ride on a Mardi Gras Float at #UniversalMardiGras!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ride on a Mardi Gras float? Last year my son and I were invited to not only ride on a Mardi Gras float but throw beads to guests as well! We had THE best time! We’re sharing details about that experience, plus everything you need to know about Universal Mardi Gras 2020!

This is a partnered post. All opinions are my own.

What it’s like to ride on a Mardi Gras float

Enjoy an unforgettable night at Universal Mardi Gras! In addition to nightly parades, guests can enjoy authentic Cajun food, live concerts from some of the top artists, and more! My son and I were invited as special guests on the Jester float last week and it was such an amazing time. Universal Orlando provided us with a costume that was easily slipped over our clothing and unlimited beads to toss out to guests lined up along the streets. By the way, Universal Annual Passholders also have the opportunity to ride on a Mardi Gras float as well! Just contact Universal Orlando for details!

At the end of the ride, my son collected the remaining beads on the float to keep for himself. Can you tell he’s excited?

The French Quarter Courtyard

Included with general admission, this family-friendly Mardi Gras party goes on nightly from Feb. 1–Apr. 2, 2020. Experience the real feel of The Big Easy: Universal Studios’ New York area becomes New Orleans with the addition of the French Quarter Courtyard, a space dedicated to “N’awlins Style Food and Spirits.” This specialty food area opens at 4pm nightly. Enjoy some of the best Cajun food including jambalaya, beignets, po’ boys, king cake, and a variety of beverages too! Our favorite drink is the Bayou Bog Water – trust me you’ll want to try this! And it’s kid-friendly too.

Enough talking about it! Click play on the Universal Mardi Gras video below to experience it for yourself!

Universal Mardi Gras 2020 Concerts:

Saturday, Feb. 1 – The Roots

Saturday, Feb. 8 – Karol G

Saturday, Feb. 15 – Bell Biv DeVoe

Sunday, Feb. 16 – +Live+

Saturday, Feb. 22 – Kool & the Gang

Saturday, Feb. 29 – TLC

Saturday, Mar. 7 – REO Speedwagon

Sunday, Mar. 8 – Dustin Lynch

Friday, Mar. 13 – Luis Fonsi

Saturday, Mar. 14 – The All-American Rejects

Sunday, Mar. 15 – Diana Ross

Friday, Mar. 20 – Chris Young

Saturday, Mar. 21 – Earth, Wind & Fire

Sunday, Mar. 22 – Marshmello

Saturday, Mar. 28 – Why Don’t We

Sunday, Mar. 29 – Gavin DeGraw

All concerts begin at 8:30, however, I highly encourage you to arrive early as the area quickly fills to capacity and you may miss the entertainment. In addition to these well-known artists, you can also experience authentic performances by real Louisiana jazz, blues and zydeco bands.