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Universal announces expanded Mardi Gras festivities, concert lineup, new Tribute Store location

ORLANDO, Fla. — Get ready to go beyond the bayou.

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Universal Orlando Resort on Tuesday announced details about this year’s Mardi Gras celebration, taking place at Universal Studios from Feb. 4 through April 16, including the concert lineup, food offerings, a new tribute store and more.

The theme of this year’s nightly Mardi Gras parade is “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras,” inspired by fantastical creatures with a Mardi Gras twist, Universal said. There is no parade on March 31.

READ: Universal to close several attractions to make room for ‘exciting new family entertainment’

Through February and March, there will be eight live performances at Music Plaza stage from big-name headliners.

This year’s concert lineup is:

  • Feb. 4: Patti LaBelle
  • Feb 10: JVKE
  • Feb. 11: Goo Goo Dolls
  • Feb. 18: Maren Morris
  • Feb. 19: WILLOW
  • Feb. 25: 3 Doors Down
  • March 4: Sean Paul
  • March 5: Lauren Daigle

The expansive Mardi Gras menu this year will feature 50 tasting-sized items for guests to enjoy, representing mouthwatering flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans, Brazil, Belgium and beyond.

Also new this year, Universal’s other theme parks are joining in on the Mardi Gras fun by offering limited Mardi Gras food items such as gumbo, jambalaya, king cake and more at Island of Adventure, and muffuletta long board pizza at Volcano Bay.

PHOTOS: Details announced for Universal’s Mardi Gras

Guests for a limited time can save $10 by purchasing a Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card by paying $65 for a $75 card. Passholders can also receive special savings by purchasing a $150 card for only $120 throughout Universal Studios.

The annual Mardi Gras Tribute Store will also be moved to a new location: the Hollywood area. It will transport guests to an international jazz celebration that leads into the alleyways of New Orleans and, ultimately, an international jazz celebration in the alleyways of New Orleans, Universal said.

The party will continue in Universal CityWalk with special Mardi Gras festivities at select venues, Universal said.

READ: New attractions coming to Central Florida theme parks this year

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.