Universal's Mardi Gras: The NYC Traveler at Carnaval
Universal's Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnaval
Universal's Mardi Gras YouTube Video
It was quite a treat to experience festival at Universal Resort's Universal Studios. Like we do at Epcot, we got to eat and drink our way around the world throughout the theme park.
Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is a celebration that can begin as early as right after Three Kings Day (the twelfth day of Christmas, January 6) and ends on the day before Ash Wednesday (the date varies because Easter dates varies). It can start as late as the week before Ash Wednesday. Three Kings Day commemorates when the three wise men (kings) arrived in Bethlehem to give gifts to the newborn Baby Jesus. It is said that they arrived 12 days after the birth.
From the birth celebration to the crucifixion and resurrection days, there is a carnival in between, celebrated in various ways throughout the world. The most famous one in the USA is probably the one in New Orleans, Louisiana (which celebrates all throughout the state). Universal's Carnaval (spelled like Latin-based languages) is modeled after this one. The festivals, parades and other celebrations (including wearing costumes and masks)are organized by social clubs known as krewes.
Normally, Universal has parades and concerts within the festival. Due to health concerns, these are sometimes either abbreviated or cancelled. However, there are still performers on floats to throw out the beads, interact distantly with guests (on stages) and of course, the food kiosks are all throughout Universal Studios, representing countries all around the world, from the USA to Canada to Germany (yes, who knew??). Usually the festival is in the New York area but this year it was all over the park. That was good, to keep the crowds scattered.
The park is festive in the traditional Carnaval colors: yellow, green and purple, with plenty of souvenirs for sale. Also, they sold a "backstage pass," sort of like a food flight or stroll, eligible for a certain amount of samplings at kiosks throughout the park.
One of the highlights was a tribute store to Preservation Hall in New Orleans. Part store, part exhibit, part attraction, it was a great addition to the mood and theme of the festival.
The cast was very enthusiastic and were excellent in creating a festive environment in Universal. All in all, a good time was had by all.
