Today is Mardi Gras, and Universal Orlando's annual Mardi Gras celebration is in full swing.
For its 17th year, Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras event is introducing new floats celebrating the different cultures of the world. A large dragon float celebrates Chinese New Year, and another commemorates Mexico's Day of the Dead holiday.
"People can come here and celebrate just like in New Orleans," said Jim Timon, the resort's senior vice president of entertainment. "We have the great food and the great zydeco music that happens in the French Quarter, and the headliner concerts."
Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras parade features a dozen floats, plus authentic New Orleans food.
"Jambalaya, red beans and rice, shrimp, our chefs create everything authentic," Timon said.
Universal's Mardi Gras celebration takes place every Saturday night plus other select nights through April 20. Go to UniversalOrlando.com/events/mardi-gras for more.
