PHOTO REPORT: Universal Orlando 1/29/2024 (Mardis Gras Decor and Merchandise, Dog Food for Lunch, and More)

Howdy! Today was a beautiful day at Universal Orlando Resort. There were tons of Mardi Gras decorations up throughout Universal property, new Mardi Gras merchandise, and other fun finds through Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

Good Morning from Universal Orlando Resort

People stroll toward the entrance of Universal Orlando Resort, where vibrant Mardi Gras decor adds flair to the surroundings. The area features signs for Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and other attractions, all basking under a clear sky.

Today the weather continues to be perfect and the crowds are still rather slow ,although I don’t think there is ever a slow season these days in Orlando. Also, as a side note, the Cinnabon kiosk right at the entrance doesn’t set me up for success, I love that sugary bread.

CityWalk Updates

Side-by-side image of "Red Coconut Club" adorned with vibrant Mardi Gras decor and "Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food" showcasing a colorful facade, both nestled within the lively atmosphere of Universal Orlando. Don't miss exclusive merchandise at each stop!.

The Surf Shop area remains behind walls and under construction. Crews were there this morning working on continuing to close the walls and roof and painting in the regions that have been completed.

The Red Coconut Club has been adorned with Mardi Gras decor for the 30th Anniversary season at Universal. Antojitos has also removed their refurbishment walls as of this morning. I love the fresh guacamole they make there.

Mardi Gras Merchandise

In the Universal Studios Store in CityWalk, I found the new Mardi Gras 30th Anniversary merchandise. The popcorn bucket is similar to the one currently sitting on my shelf from last year, but this year Gator Junior is more sparkly and features some extra details to celebrate the anniversary year. I found a set of four buttons featuring Gator Junior, Lil’ Boo, and Earl the Squirrel celebrating Mardi Gras.

I also like that Universal made a more muted collection for the less loud fan. The khaki collection features King Gator for a more sophisticated look. I like beige but for Mardi Gras go loud or go home.

Universal Studios Florida

I was sad to see that the medallion for Mardi Gras wasn’t hung at the entrance yet. Considering the party starts this weekend I’m sure it will be up very soon. Be sure to stay tuned to our website for more Mardi Gras 2025 details.

Mardi Gras Decor

Three images: A bayou-themed store sign at Universal Orlando, a statue of an alligator playing a banjo, and a garden scene with the alligator statue showcasing its musical prowess outdoors amidst vibrant Mardi Gras decor.

One of my favorite things Universal Orlando does is pay attention to the details in every little scene they set up. This is just a random set near the Coca-Cola Refreshment stand across from Mel’s Drive-In. I love that the gator has a little hat and Tibideaux, spelled perfectly Cajun, on his banjo.

I also saw the entrance of the Mardi Gras Tribute store coming together. I think there may be some sort of reference to Big Foot based on the small easter eggs in the windows.

Dog Man… Sit. Wait.

People wander through an outdoor park area at Universal Orlando, surrounded by colorful buildings and trees. Some push strollers or relax on benches, perhaps enjoying a break from the lively Mardi Gras celebrations or carrying their newly acquired merchandise.

I plopped myself on a bench for a while waiting out Dog Man, but he never showed up for work. I grabbed myself some themed snacks while I was waiting for him, but he never showed up. I asked the Team Member who said he may be there tomorrow. As always be sure to stay tuned to our website and social media for the most up-to-date spotting.

Dog Man Food Review

Images showcase a muffin in a cloud-themed box, a Fruit Mix can, an empty can, and someone holding a peeled Hash can label. These items could easily fit into the whimsical world of Universal Orlando merchandise with their bright colors and playful design.

Fabulous, there are days when you consider your life choices that led you to certain moments. Eating “dog food” on camera was not on my bucket list for 2025 but here we are. I tried Greg’s Tennis Ball and Ruff Mix. For the full review please visit our website. I would love to say both were great, but the tennis ball was good, not great, and the Ruff Mix well you can see how oily the bottom of the can is.

When I was cleaning the dog food can I noticed that the color underneath was bright red like the Who Hash can, could it be? I cannot tell you how excited I was to find the hidden secret. All along it wasn’t dog food at all but expired Who Hash. You almost got me there Universal. I’m kidding, but what the heck?

Islands of Adventure All Hallows Eve Boutique

A collage of a Halloween boutique at Universal Orlando showcases spook-tacular merchandise within, a decorative entrance, and vibrant green Mardi Gras-themed cups.

I was surprised to see the Mardi Gras merchandise in All Hallows Eve Boutique with little additions in the form of Mardi Gras decor. If this means they are focussing on the Tribute Store so be it, but I do hope Universal continues to flip this shop for other holidays.

Train is Closed

A vibrant collage of Universal Orlando, showcasing a red train, people in uniforms, and a majestic castle adorned with festive Mardi Gras decor, all set against a clear sky dotted with lush trees.

The Hogwarts Express being closed just means that if you want to park hop between Islands and Universal you have to walk, which may seem daunting but that walk isn’t bad except for like two weeks during the summer. Those two weeks will have you feeling like Spongebob craving water.

Jurassic Park Updates

Collage of three images: Jurassic Park entrance with iconic archway, themed building with dinosaur sculpture and sign, and a tree-lined path. Spot the Universal Orlando merchandise peeking from the themed displays.

Jurassic Park is one of my favorite lands in Islands of Adventure. It was great to see guests getting soaked again on River Adventure. I also noticed some freshly painted concrete in the exit area. We love small park upgrades that don’t require giant construction walls.

Annual Passholder Mardi Gras Merchandise

Universal Orlando Mardi Gras-themed merchandise includes an enamel pin, coaster, and T-shirt. Each features a vibrant alligator design with the text "Universal Mardi Gras 2025" and "Passholder," perfect for adding to your festive Mardi Gras decor collection.

In the Annual Passholder lounge, I found exclusive Annual Passholder Mardi Gras merchandise. I really like that there is a special design for passholders. This is on top of the benefits passholders receive during the Mardi Gras season.

Seagull Eating Fry Prize

Merchandise on display includes plush toys like penguins and green characters with bows, arranged against a vibrant red wall at a carnival booth, evoking the festive spirit of Mardi Gras decor.

There is really not much to say about it, but the last prize that caught my eye at Universal was Spider-Pig from the Simpsons Movie in those carnival games. This seagull eating a french fry is random and niche and he’s giant and I love him. I want twelve. Let’s be honest, any Seagull holding a fry has already won the prize.

Bye For Now!

The entrance area of Universal Orlando Resort features signs for parking and Uber pickup, topped by an architectural canopy. Beneath a clear sky, the vibrant Mardi Gras decor adds a festive touch to this lively hub.

I hope you enjoyed our day eating dog food and seeing Mardi Gras 2025 creep in. It’s never a dull day at Universal Orlando.

I cannot wait for the Universal Mardi Gras 30th Anniversary to begin this weekend. Universal never disappoints with their concert series. I am most looking forward to seeing T-Pain, Joe Jonas, and Pauly D. Let me know in the comments if there is an act you would most like to see from this year’s Mardi Gras lineup.

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