For most theme park fans, the traditional holidays like Halloween and Christmas are the big draws. But after “the holidays” have died down, people tend to get bummed out about having to wait so long for either of those holidays to pop up Universal Orlando Resorts’ 2026 event schedule. Meanwhile, I’m still pushing people to consider an early year gem I don’t think is talked about nearly enough: Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval!
2026 might be the best year to either introduce yourself, or return to this deliciously colorful celebration. Among the reasons are more of the food and music one should expect from Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. However, a new character will be debuting through this year’s variant, which will cause parade fans to lose their minds.
Introducing Prince Gator – Universal’s First Mardi Gras Celebration Walkaround Character
The King Gator float at Universal Mardi Gras has always been a highlight of Universal Studios Florida’s almost 31 year old event; which is set to open this Saturday, February 7th. As someone who visited back in 2024, that trip actually left me wishing King Gator could walk the park for actual meet-and-greets.
Per a new press release from Universal Orlando Resort, my dream has come true – kind of. There’s a bit of a tweak involved, as you’ll read in the details below:
A fun new meet‑and‑greet with the arrival of Prince Gator, the son of the fan‑favorite King Gator, who is brought to life year after year as a float in the Mardi Gras parade. Guests of all ages can meet, interact and take photos with him throughout the season at the Wave outside of Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show.
Admittedly the second part of my desires doesn’t stand a snowball’s chance in Florida, as Prince Gator probably won’t aid me in my crusade against Jimmy Fallon. Putting that fictional want aside, this ties into something I’ve discussed before (via CinemaBlend): the importance of non-ride attractions like meet-and-greets.
Prince Gator getting his own very special seasonal photo op warms my heart like a fresh beignet, and I now feel the need to pay tribute to this sovereign of the swamp. But say you aren’t as into characters, or parades, as I am. If you’re into theme park food, then you should still hit up Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, as it continues to live up to the second half of its name.
Universal Mardi Gras 2026 Is Also Expanding The Menu To Included Its Hotels
No park in its right mind would dub an event “International Flavors of Carnaval” and not have a tasting menu that lives up to the hype. As always, “an expansive menu of more than 40 sampler-sized items inspired by Carnaval celebrations from Puerto Rico to France to Austria and more, plus New Orleans favorites” is on offer for Universal Studios Florida fans hungry for something different.
At the same time, if you’re an experienced Universal Mardi Gras attendee, there’s a new perk that’ll bring a smile to your face. Among new dishes like Baked Cajun Mac & Cheese, and returning favorites such as the Beignets, the hotels on campus will now be getting in on the fun thusly:
Across Universal Orlando’s 11 hotels, guests can indulge in Mardi Gras-inspired food and beverage offerings, including Bourbon Street Beignets at The Kitchen in the Hard Rock Hotel, Korean Cajun Jambalaya at Bar 17 Bistro in Universal Aventura Hotel, Voodoo Street Fries at the Pier 8 Market in Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites, and much more.
If you’re looking to dig into Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, but want to take it easy in the room for a day, don’t fret. You now have this option to grab treats like Universal Helios Grand Hotel’s Soul Crab Beignets, without leaving your chosen property. (Unless a special option resides at another resort, like that Korean Cajun Jambalaya.)
One Last Important Tip For Universal Mardi Gras Festival Goers
While I’m not a sponsored travel agent for any theme park, I always like to highlight “know before you go” opportunities. Universal Mardi Gras is an event that consistently keeps that in mind, thanks to the Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card; which is currently offering these special deals:
The best way to save and savor the flavors of this year’s culinary delights … guests can pay $65 for a card of $75 value. Annual and Seasonal Passholders also receive special savings on an exclusive $150 card which can be purchased for $120.
An extensive menu that spans the world obviously leads to a bit of a tab at the end of the day. But if you’re good at planning and budgeting, you can make sure your stay at Universal Orlando Resort mixes in some Puerto Rican Pinchos de Lechon along with the other quick bites you may require. Don’t wait too long to make, or alter, those plans though; as Universal Mardi Gras will be laissez bon temps rouler until April 4th, only at Universal Studios Florida!
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