Mardi Gras 2012 kicks off at Universal Orlando
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 Date | Headliner | New Orleans Bands |
| Saturday, February 11 | The B-52s | The Daddy Mack Blues Band |
| Saturday, February 18 | Kelly Clarkson | Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers |
| Sunday, February 19 | Boyz II Men | Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers |
| Saturday, February 25 | Diana Ross | John Lisi & Delta Funk |
| Saturday, March 3 | Goo Goo Dolls | Beth McKee & The Sliders |
| Saturday, March 10 | Big Time Rush | Gravy |
| Friday, March 16 | J. Cole | Lil’ Brian & The Zydeco Travelers |
| Saturday, March 17 | Sugar Ray | Lil’ Brian & The Zydeco Travelers |
| Friday, March 23 | Hot Chelle Rae | J.J. Caillier & The Zydeco Knockouts |
| Saturday, March 24 | B.o.B. | J.J. Caillier & The Zydeco Knockouts |
| Friday, March 30 | Plain White T's | Soul Project |
| Saturday, March 31 | Prince Royce | Soul Project |
| Saturday, April 7 | Cindy Lauper | Rockin' Jake |
| Saturday, April 14 | KC & The Sunshine Band | Big 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.
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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!