Universal's Mardi Gras

Universal's Mardi Gras is one of the best-value seasonal events in Orlando -- a weeks-long celebration of music, food, and parades, all included with regular park admission. Running from early February through early April, it transforms Universal Studios into a nightly party.

The nightly parade features elaborately decorated floats, stilt walkers, and performers throwing beads into the crowd. After the parade, headliner concerts take the stage -- past performers include Marshmello, Jason Derulo, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

The authentic New Orleans food booths are a highlight, serving beignets, jambalaya, crawfish boils, and king cake. The quality rivals actual Bourbon Street -- these are not theme park approximations.