Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration is turning 30 this year, and the event has evolved into a major draw with its vibrant parades, generous helpings of food, and extraordinary musical performances. But this year, the excitement isn’t about the beignets-it’s about the bands.
Universal this week unveiled its 2024 concert lineup, and it’s a doozy. As a longtime fan of Portugal. The Man, and honestly, the news has me reaching for the repeat button on “Feel It Still.” I’ve been a fan of the Alaskan band for over a decade, catching them at college campuses and even making a trip to Pomona, California, to see them perform at the Glass House in 2013. I’ve seen them perform six or seven times, though a bout of illness sadly kept me from seeing them at The Greek theater in Los Angeles as their popularity surged.
It’s a bit surreal to think I can now combine two of my favorite things-live music and theme parks-into one unforgettable experience.And it’s especially special because this marks Portugal. The Man’s first-ever performance at Universal Orlando.
Even if Portugal. The man isn’t your jam,the lineup offers something for everyone,ranging from a DJ set by RuPaul to performances by classic Canadian acts like The Barenaked Ladies. Here’s a look at the full schedule:
- February 7 – Kaskade
- February 14 – Portugal. The Man
- February 15 – Ivy Queen
- February 21 – Joey Fatone & AJ McLean
- February 28 – RuPaul (DJ SET)
- March 7 – Shaggy
- March 13 – tyler Hubbard
- March 14 – Bebe Rexha
- March 15 – Zedd
- March 21 – Barenaked Ladies
- March 28 – The All-American Rejects
Beyond the music, this year’s Mardi Gras will feature new culinary offerings, including Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel and Pinchos de Lechon, alongside returning favorites like New Orleans-style beignets. The park is also revamping the Tribute Store with a Mardi Gras theme, and I’m eager to see the “brand new theme” Universal is teasing. There’s also plenty more to discover about the food and the Mardi Gras parade itself. More details are expected to be released soon.
Portugal. the Man is scheduled to perform at Islands of Adventure on Valentine’s Day weekend, which seems like perfect timing. Now, I just need to convince my partner to join me-and maybe even head to the Coconut club at CityWalk afterward for some extra mardi Gras fun.
