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Mardi Gras 2012 kicks off at Universal Orlando

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Published: February 11, 2012 at 7:02 PM
It's that time of year again, this weekend Universal Orlando kicks off its 2012 Mardi Gras season. We got to take a look the new floats for this year and got a taste of New Orleans.

Every year, Universal Orlando has a new set of themed floats made by Blain Kern Artists which is the same company that designs and builds the floats for the New Orleans Mardi Gras Parade. This years parade theme will take you on a journey through the "Blue Planet."

From the bayous and swamps…

to the rainforest…

to the deep blue sea…

and the Polar Regions.

Of course the lineup of floats will also bring back many of the old favorites like the Riverboat and Gator.



Let's not forget Mardi Gras also brings with it some tasty, delicious Cajun cuisines at Universal Studios' French Quarter Courtyard. There you'll be able to find Jambalaya, Shrimp Gumbo, Beignets, King Cake, and so much more. I definitely recommend if you are coming to Mardi Gras to take some time and try these delicious dishes.


And of course Mardi Gras will again play host to over a dozen concerts headlined by some of the biggest names in music starting off with the B-52's this weekend, and Kelly Clarkson next week. There will also be several New Orleans Bands straight from the Big Easy coming to perform in the French Quarter prior to the headliners taking the main stage.

Mardi Gras 2012 Lineup
Event DateHeadlinerNew Orleans Bands
Saturday, February 11The B-52sThe Daddy Mack Blues Band
Saturday, February 18Kelly ClarksonLil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Sunday, February 19Boyz II MenLil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Saturday, February 25Diana RossJohn Lisi & Delta Funk
Saturday, March 3Goo Goo DollsBeth McKee & The Sliders
Saturday, March 10Big Time RushGravy
Friday, March 16J. ColeLil’ Brian & The Zydeco Travelers
Saturday, March 17Sugar RayLil’ Brian & The Zydeco Travelers
Friday, March 23Hot Chelle RaeJ.J. Caillier & The Zydeco Knockouts
Saturday, March 24B.o.B.J.J. Caillier & The Zydeco Knockouts
Friday, March 30Plain White T'sSoul Project
Saturday, March 31Prince RoyceSoul Project
Saturday, April 7Cindy LauperRockin' Jake
Saturday, April 14KC & The Sunshine BandBig Al & The Heavyweights

Mardi Gras is included as a part of regular admission to Universal Studios Florida. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

Readers' Opinions

From Mike Seary on February 14, 2012 at 4:49 PM
If I were not actually living in New Orleans for Mardi Gras, U-O's Mardi Gras version would surely serve as a suitable replacement. No matter, will be visiting this fall regardless. Lassez le bon temps roulet! Enjoy your King Cakes and Red Beans n Rice, I surely will!

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