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Record-Breaking Crowds Push Universal Orlando to Full Capacity, Entry Blocked for Late Arrivals

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2025 celebration is off to a massive start, with the event’s first concert, featuring T-Pain, reaching full capacity before the performance even began. Guests received a notification through the Universal Orlando Resort app about 20 minutes prior to the 8:30 p.m. start time, simply stating: “T-Pain Concert at Capacity.”

The concert took place at the Music Plaza Stage, located near Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. While the rest of Universal Studios Florida remained open, no additional guests were permitted to enter the designated concert viewing area once it reached capacity.

Allie Uncharted shared a video of what the venue looked like when at capacity, stating, “T-Pain is at capacity 😗”.

With Mardi Gras running through March 30 and several major artists set to perform, Universal visitors planning to attend future concerts should be aware that space in the viewing area is limited. Those hoping for a close-up experience should plan to arrive well in advance, as entry will be restricted once capacity is reached.

Magic City Mayhem posted the notice on X, stating, “It is VERY busy. @UniversalORL”.

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras: A Festival of Music, Food, and Celebration

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando is one of the resort’s most anticipated annual events, bringing a lively mix of concerts, parades, and international cuisine to the park. This year’s theme, Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, celebrates the vibrant traditions of Mardi Gras with entertainment, food, and performances inspired by cultures around the world.

The best part? Mardi Gras at Universal is included with standard park admission, meaning guests can experience these concerts and festivities without an additional charge. However, securing a good spot for the shows requires some advance planning.

Important Details for Universal’s Mardi Gras Concert Series

Universal Mardi Gras performer during the parade at Universal Orlando Resort.
Credit: Universal

Event Dates

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration runs from February 1 through March 30, 2025.

Concert Location and Viewing Access

Concerts are held at the Music Plaza Stage inside Universal Studios Florida, near Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

  • Performances start at 8:30 p.m. on select nights.
  • Concert admission is included with park entry, but space in the designated viewing area is limited.
  • Guests who want a prime viewing spot should plan to arrive early, as capacity limits will be enforced.

Universal Mardi Gras 2025 Concert Lineup

This year’s concert series features an exciting mix of artists across multiple genres, drawing major crowds.

  • February 1: T-Pain (Reached Capacity)
  • February 8: Joe Jonas
  • February 15: Kool & The Gang
  • February 16: Juanes
  • February 22: Scotty McCreery
  • March 1: Foster the People
  • March 8: Illenium
  • March 15: All Time Low
  • March 16: Lawrence
  • March 21: Coco Jones
  • March 22: DJ Pauly D
  • March 29: TLC

With several high-profile artists scheduled to perform, guests should anticipate significant crowds for popular acts and plan accordingly.

Universal’s Mardi Gras Parade and Themed Experiences

Beyond the concerts, Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration features a dynamic parade, marking its 30th anniversary with six brand-new floats inspired by famous New Orleans Krewes. The parade, complete with energetic performers, live music, and bead-throwing opportunities, remains a highlight of the event.

The festival also offers a variety of globally inspired food and beverage options, allowing guests to experience flavors from different parts of the world. Featured dishes include:

  • Beignets from New Orleans
  • Duck Xian Bing from China
  • Pinchos de Lechon from Puerto Rico

For guests looking for an upgraded experience, the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience provides an exclusive opportunity to ride a parade float while tossing beads to the crowd. The package, which starts at $89.99 per person, also includes a three-course meal at one of Universal Orlando’s participating restaurants.

Planning for a Mardi Gras Visit

A family of four walks towards the entrance of Universal Studios Florida
Credit: Universal

Guests hoping to attend upcoming concerts should be prepared for large crowds, particularly for performances by popular artists. The T-Pain concert reaching full capacity before it even began serves as a strong indication that future concerts could do the same. Arriving early is crucial for those who want to secure a spot within the Music Plaza Stage viewing area.

For visitors looking to enjoy the Mardi Gras atmosphere without the concert crowds, visiting on weeknights or earlier in the day may provide a more relaxed experience. The food booths, parades, and themed entertainment run throughout the event, allowing guests to enjoy the celebration at their own pace.

With more major concerts still to come, guests are encouraged to monitor the Universal Orlando app for real-time capacity updates and plan accordingly to make the most of their Mardi Gras visit.

Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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