Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval returns to Universal Studios Florida February 6 through March 27, 2027. That is a 50-day run, shorter than the 57-day 2026 season. The closing date falls the day before Easter, which is March 28, 2027.
What's confirmed
Universal has confirmed the dates and announced a parade and beads as part of the celebration. Additional details, such as the concert lineup, menus, and food booth offerings, have not been fully announced yet and are typically released closer to the start date.
Based on past seasons, the celebration includes:
- A daily parade with floats and performers.
- Food booths inspired by Carnaval traditions from around the world.
- Live concerts on select nights, with lineups announced separately.
- Beads thrown from parade floats.
Most festivities, including the parade, food booths, and select concerts, have been included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida or a valid annual or seasonal pass in past years, though blackout dates may apply. Confirm for 2027 when details are released.
How to plan your visit
- Pick your night. If a concert matters to you, plan the rest of your trip around that date once the lineup is announced.
- Decide on your goals. Some guests come for the parade and food, while others focus on rides and use Mardi Gras as an evening bonus.
- Reserve dining early. Weekend evenings during Mardi Gras can be busy.
- Check hours. Universal Studios Florida hours can vary by day and by event.
- Consider the closing weekend carefully. Because the event ends just before Easter, the final weekend overlaps with spring break and Easter travel and is harder to book late.
Is it worth planning a trip around?
Mardi Gras is best treated as a bonus rather than the sole reason for a trip. Universal Studios Florida has plenty to do without the event, and the festival adds atmosphere, food, and an evening show. If you plan to visit during the run, build in at least one evening at Universal Studios Florida and avoid peak holiday weekends if you can.
Our take
Mardi Gras is one of Universal's most reliable crowd-pleasers, and the shorter 2027 season means less flexibility if you want to attend. If you are comparing Universal and Walt Disney World for a late-winter trip, Mardi Gras is a good tiebreaker for travelers who enjoy food and live music. Book earlier for the closing weekend.
If you want help choosing dates and lodging for a Universal Orlando trip, we can build a plan around the event.
