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.
On select nights Feb. 9 through April 20, guests will let tje 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 comlete 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 oarade winds throuhg 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 enjoythe soulful sounds of authentic New Orleans bands that travel straight from The Big Easy to perform Blues, Jaz 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.
The excitement of Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras is included with admission to Universal Studios. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras
2013 Mardi Gras Talent Line-Up:
Saturday, February 9th: Lifehouse (performing in the Music Plaza), John Lisi & Delta Funk! (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, February 16th: Steve Miller Band (performing in the Music Plaza), The Dirty Bourbon River Show (performing in the French Quarter)
Sunday, February 17th: Boys Like Girls (performing in the Music Plaza), The Dirty Bourbon River Show (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, February 23th: Trey Songz (performing in the Music Plaza), Colin Lake (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, March 2nd: Demi Lovato (performing in the Music Plaza), Beth McKee (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, March 9th: Montgomery Gentry (performing in the Music Plaza), Gravy (performing in the French Quarter)
Friday, March 15th: Sean Kingston (performing in the Music Plaza), Lil Brian and the Zydeco Travelers (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, March 16th: Matchbox Twenty (performing in the Music Plaza), Lil Brian and the Zydeco Travelers (performing in the French Quarter)
Friday, March 22nd: Austin Mahone (performing in the Music Plaza), The Soul Project NOLA (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, March 23rd: Phillip Phillips (performing in the Music Plaza), The Soul Project NOLA (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, March 30th: Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo (performing in the Music Plaza), Big Al & The Heavyweights (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, April 6th: Kool & The Gang (performing in the Music Plaza), Mississippi Rail Company (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, April 13th: Pitbull (performing in the Music Plaza), The Rockin' Jake Band (performing in the French Quarter)
Saturday, April 20th: The All-American Rejects (performing in the Music Plaza), Daddy Mack Blues Band (performing in the French Quarter)