Les bon temps of New Orleans is set to roll out at Universal Orlando Resort this weekend (Feb. 3) as annual Mardi Gras celebrations return to the Florida theme park, carrying on for over two months (until April 7).

‘Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval’ channels the flavour and flair of the Big Easy at its most raucous – Carnival season – as well as other iconic Carnaval destinations around the globe.

Highlights include a spectacular Mardi Gras parade complete with tons of colourful beads, dazzling floats and energetic street performers, and – on select nights – live concerts by top-name talent to cap off the festivities. The celebrations and activities are included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Guests can also take their Mardi Gras party to the next level with the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, which gives them the exclusive opportunity to be a part of the festivities by reserving a spot to toss beads from a Mardi Gras float during the event’s vibrant parade. The experience also includes a three-course meal at one of four participating restaurants – The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Finnegan’s Bar & Grill or Lombard’s Seafood Grille.

The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience includes one appetizer, one entrée, one dessert and one non-alcoholic beverage starting at US$90.51 p.m. (tax inclusive), as well as one Mardi Gras parade float rider reservation on the same day. Travel advisors can purchase this experience and reserve a spot by visiting www.VaxVacationAccess.com.

For more information about Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval and Universal Orlando, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Spring