While Fat Tuesday may have come and gone in New Orleans, the biggest, best Mardi Gras party outside of The Big Easy continues at Universal Orlando Resort.

On Friday, Jamaican singer and rapper Sean Kingston will bring excitement to Universal Studios with his up-tempo, tropical-infused pop-rap sounds. Kingston – who has sold more than three million digital singles – is known for hit songs, “Beautiful Girls,” “Me Love,” “Take You There,” “Fire Burning,” and for co-writing Jason Derulo’s “Whatcha Say,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2009.

Continuing the fun on Saturday, three-time Grammy award-winning singer Ne-Yo will entertain Mardi Gras guests with his smooth and unique musical style – combining R&B, pop, dance, soul and hip hop. Ne-Yo has several hits, including “Because of You,” “Closer” and “Miss Independent.” As a songwriter, he has also penned top songs for other artists, such as  Beyonce Knowles’ “Irreplaceable,” Rihanna’s “Take A Bow,” and “Russian Roulette,” and he has acted in roles for the hit TV series “CSI: NY” and the action film “Battle: Los Angeles.”

At Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras, nationally renowned musical acts combine with an authentic Mardi Gras parade, dozens of colorfully costumed performers, authentic Cajun cooking, and hand-picked New Orleans bands to capture the look, feel and fun of New Orleans – all inside Universal Studios Florida. This year’s ultimate street party runs every Saturday and other select nights through April 23, and is included in regular admission to Universal Studios Florida. For more information, visit www.universalorlando.com/mardigras.

Friday, April 1, 2011

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Lil Brian & The Zydeco Travelers (New Orleans Band)
7:30 p.m.: Mardi Gras Parade Starts
8:30 p.m.: Sean Kingston performs

Saturday, April 2, 2011

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Lil Brian & The Zydeco Travelers (New Orleans Band)
7:30 p.m.: Mardi Gras Parade Starts
8:30 p.m.: Ne-Yo performs