As much as we absolutely love heading into Universal Orlando's theme parks for some fun, it can be very pricey. February to April is a great time to venture into Universal because of the epic Mardi Gras celebration. But you can actually enjoy some of the festivities of Universal's Mardi Gras without needing a theme park ticket! Here's how!
If you are indeed heading into the theme parks then jump over to our Guide to Universal Mardi Gras 2024 and fuel up with our 8 Must-Try Food and Drinks at Universal's Mardi Gras.
In Case You're Interested:
>> Free Things to do in Orlando
>> Secret Florida Islands
>> Fun Outdoor Activities
>> April Events in Orlando
Written by Jodi Caballero and Dani Meyering
How to Enjoy Universal's Mardi Gras Without a Theme Park Ticket
The main event may be inside the theme park gates, but plenty of Mardi Gras fun can be found at Universal CityWalk. From February 3 – April 17, 2024 you can order Mardi Gras food and drinks from CityWalk restaurants. But that's not all.
There's even more fun at the Cursed Coconut Club that goes ALL OUT for Universal's Mardi Gras. Keep reading to get all the details.
Cursed Coconut Club
One of the new star performers in the CityWalk area has been the themed bar that takes over the Red Coconut Club. The Mardi Gras season brings the Curse Coconut Club – a voodoo spin! The detail and work that has gone into this bar are impeccable.
It’s a great place to let the good times roll!
The focus of the Cursed Coconut Club is on the darker, eerie but fascinating side of New Orleans culture and history. The Club is adorned with skeletons, tarot cards, projected colorful tiki-like characters, Mardi Gras music, black lights, and even a fireplace of sorts, this club can’t be missed.
There are three bars, each with its own theme. The upstairs is named “The Baron’s Shack” and when you reach the top of the stairs you’ll meet what can only be assumed to be the Barone, in his new skeletal state.
The venue is full of mossy walls, street lamps, dark lighting and very intricate corners full of what you would imagine would be in some of the attics of the house in the south. Don’t forget to check out the wall of Voodoo dolls, rumor is they actually chatter!
Mardi Gras Drinks
The Menu is full of tiki-like cocktails with a N’awlins flare. We tried the Sazerac (very strong), Cafe Brulot Diabolique, and the Scarlet Veve, all were very good but beware they definitely pack a punch!
The menu also offers beers and mead. Most of the drinks can be purchased in a plastic tiki souvenir cup, except the stronger drinks.
- Souvenir Cup $18.00
- Souvenir Cup Refill $15.00
- Non-Souvenir $15.00
Also, this season brings two Mad Mocktails that sound great, we love a good Mocktail!
With the music pumping, fog machines blowing, halloween-esque facade on the outside, and detailed inside, the Cursed Coconut Club will surely be a hit this season.
Visitors beware the venue does close a lot for special events, make sure to check the Universal App for the daily opening times. It generally opens from 5 p.m – 12:00 a.m.
Also, the music changes at 9:00 p.m. to club-like music so make sure to check it out beforehand to get the full feel. There wasn’t any live entertainment yet when we visited, but Universal has been known to add it as the season progresses so stay tuned!
Pat O'Brien's Mardi Gras Party
Keep the festivities going all night long during Pat O’Brien’s Mardi Gras After Party – taking place from 4 p.m.- 1 a.m. on select nights during Universal’s Mardi Gras.
This party includes live DJs, stilt walkers, exclusive food and drink offerings and more.
While admission is complimentary, reservations are encouraged and can be made online or by calling 407-224-3663.
Mardi Gras Food and Beverages at CityWalk
This year there are no Mardi Gras food and beverage booths exclusive to Universal CityWalk, but the restaurants are offering limited-time Mardi Gras dishes and beverages.
If you are looking to grab some Universal Mardi Gras merchandise without heading into the parks, you are in luck! Mardi Gras merchandise has made it's way into select stores at CityWalk.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- Parking at Universal/CityWalk parking garage is free after 6pm, otherwise is approximately $27/car
- There is no cover charge for Cursed Coconut Club or Pat O' Brien's
- Don’t forget to use your Universal Annual Pass for discounts, just ask
