When planning a visit to Universal Studios Florida during the early months of the year, one of the most exciting seasonal events is Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.

This fan-favorite celebration transforms the park with global food booths, live concerts on select nights, vibrant décor, street performers, and - of course - the high-energy Mardi Gras parade.

While watching the parade is a highlight on its own, many guests don’t realize that you can actually be part of the parade by booking the Float Ride & Dine Experience.

During a recent visit to Universal Orlando, I had the opportunity to try this experience for myself- and it completely exceeded my expectations. Not only was it incredibly fun, but it also offered excellent value.

What Is the Universal Mardi Gras Float Ride & Dine Experience?

The Float Ride & Dine Experience is a special add-on during Universal Mardi Gras that combines a three-course meal with the opportunity to ride on a parade float and throw beads to guests along the parade route.

Pricing starts at approximately $94.99 per person (plus tax) and includes:

A three-course meal (appetizer, entrée, and dessert)
One non-alcoholic beverage
Gratuity for your server
Access to ride on a Mardi Gras parade float

Guests select their restaurant at the time of booking. Participating restaurants may include:

Lombard’s Seafood Grille
Confisco Grille
The Cowfish® Sushi Burger Bar
NBC Sports Grill & Brew
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

Dining at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

For my experience, I chose Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, one of my favorite restaurants at Universal CityWalk.

Shortly after being seated, fresh tortilla chips and homemade salsa were brought to the table which is always a great start. After looking over the menu (which is full of great options), I selected Tableside Guacamole for my appetizer and Pollo Parilla for my entrée.

The portions were generous, and everything was flavorful and well-prepared. I was honestly too full for dessert, but churros with ice cream were the featured option.

Parade Check-In Process

After dinner, I made my way into Universal Studios Florida and headed to the Animal Actors on Location! theater for check-in.

The process was simple and well-organized:

Signed a waiver
Assigned a float (I was on the Riverboat float)
Fitted with a costume

The costume is very easy to put on since it was more of a tabard-style overlay that ties at the side. It wasn’t anything that was uncomfortable or over-the-top.

After check-in, guests are free to enjoy the park until their assigned return time.

What It’s Like to Ride on a Mardi Gras Parade Float

Once all participants returned, the team provided clear safety instructions, including how to properly throw beads (underhand or frisbee-style for safety).

Each float is loaded backstage, and getting to see the floats up close before the parade begins is an experience in itself - especially larger floats like the Riverboat.

Each section of the float has a team lead, and guests are guided to their assigned spots. I was placed on an upper section, which required climbing a short ladder.

Before the parade began, we were given helpful tips:

Load bead bags onto your arms in advance
Stay energetic and engage with the crowd
Keep throwing continuously to maximize the experience

Once the parade started, it was about 20–25 minutes of nonstop fun, throwing beads to excited guests along the route.

It’s a completely different perspective compared to watching from the ground - and one that’s hard to fully appreciate until you experience it yourself.

Is the Universal Mardi Gras Float Ride & Dine Experience Worth It?

Absolutely - this experience is 100% worth it.

Watching the Mardi Gras parade is a must-do, and I would still recommend seeing it from the ground at least once. But being in the parade takes the experience to a completely different level.

What surprised me most was just how fun and engaging it was. I didn’t expect it to be my favorite part of Mardi Gras - but it absolutely was.

From a value perspective, it also makes sense. Since the experience includes a full meal, the additional cost to participate in the parade is relatively minimal when you break it down.

If you’re already planning to dine at one of the participating restaurants, upgrading to the Float Ride & Dine Experience is an easy decision - and one that can become a highlight of your trip.

Final Thoughts

The Universal Mardi Gras Float Ride & Dine Experience is one of the most unique ways to experience Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval.

Between the included dining, seamless organization, and unforgettable parade participation, it’s an experience that delivers both fun and value.

At Royal Treatment Travel®, we help our clients decide which Universal Orlando experiences are truly worth adding - and how to plan their trip so everything fits together smoothly.

If you’re considering visiting Universal Orlando during Mardi Gras, we can help you determine whether the Float Ride & Dine Experience is the right fit for your vacation.

Are you interested in experiencing all the fun that awaits you at Universal Orlando Resort? Royal Treatment Travel® would love to help! Contact your Travel Advisor or submit a quote request using the button below to get started.

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