Universal Orlando Resort’s Mardi Gras 2013 is combining a stellar lineup of high-energy performances featuring some of the most sought-after names in music with the exciting spirit of the famed “N’awlins” celebration. Mardi Gras is one of the favorite times of year for locals to head out the park an pick up a few beads and a great concert. There are a lot of great groups and some big names on the list this year. There are even two unannounced nights, meaning the lineup could get even better.
On select nights Feb. 9 through April 20, guests will let the good times roll as they experience an authentic, family-friendly version of the Mardi Gras bash at Universal Studios Florida. The event couples unparalleled theme park entertainment with a dazzling parade, authentic New Orleans musicians, mouth-watering Cajun cuisine, tons of glittering Mardi Gras beads and live concerts by high-profile artists.
This year’s talent features an incredible variety of music, ranging from Americana rock to soulful R&B to upbeat pop to Latin rhythms. Guests can return night after night to hear their favorite performers, including internationally-renowned rapper Pitbull – whose number-one single, “Give Me Everything,” was named “Top Radio Song” in the 2012 Billboard Music Awards; 2012 People’s Choice Award-winner Demi Lovato for “Favorite Pop Artist;” season 11 winner of “American Idol,” Phillip Phillips whose hit song, “Home,” was certified double-platinum; chart-topping country duo Montgomery Gentry, with top hits like “If You Ever Stop Loving Me” and “Back When I Knew It All;” teen heartthrob Austin Mahone; and alternative rock band Matchbox Twenty, whose latest studio album, “North,” debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. For the complete line-up, see below.
Before enjoying the live concerts, guests can dance along with dozens of energetic street performers and collect beads by the handful as the Mardi Gras parade winds through Universal Studios. This year’s parade celebrates “Colorful Cultures Around the World,” featuring all-new float additions inspired by the Mexican Day of the Dead, Chinese New Year and Elegance of India. The parade’s elaborate, hand-crafted floats are built by Blaine Kern Artists – the same company that designs floats for the Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans.
The celebration continues at Universal Orlando’s very own French Quarter Courtyard. Partygoers can enjoy the soulful sounds of authentic New Orleans bands that travel straight from The Big Easy to perform Blues, Jazz and Zydeco music. And the irresistible smells of authentic Cajun cuisine will fill the French Quarter as guests taste an array of delicious New Orleans fare, including jambalaya, gumbo, beignets and more.
2013 MARDI GRAS TALENT LINE-UP
Saturday, February 9 – Lifehouse
Saturday, February 16 – Steve Miller Band
Sunday, February 17 – Boys Like Girls
Saturday, February 23 – Trey Songz
Saturday, March 2 – Demi Lovato
Saturday, March 9 – Montgomery Gentry
Friday, March 15 – Sean Kingston
Saturday, March 16 – Matchbox Twenty
Friday, March 22 – Austin Mahone
Saturday, March 23 – Phillip Phillips
Saturday, March 30 – Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo
Saturday, April 6 – TBD
Saturday, April 13 -Pitbull
Saturday, April 20 – TBD
Which performer are you looking forward to seeing the most?