Author: Brian Glenn

Brian may be reached at brian.g@insideuniversal.net - Editor-in-Chief

Universal Orlando has reopened Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous in Islands of Adventure after nearly a half-year refurbishment with a new look, and a new menu. Located in Seuss Landing, the restaurant is a colorful Seuss circus and features the High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride! circling the big top. The restaurant has ditched oranges and yellows for bolder, brighter reds with contrasting blues. The layout has also changed, including the removal of the kitchen area, which is now walled off, and a completely new seating layout. The menu has transitioned away from spaghetti and fried chicken platters to…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 12, 2024, to February 18, 2024. Universal Orlando 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This weekend will feature 2 concerts, with Nessa Barrett performing live on Saturday, February 17; and KC and the Sunshine Band performing on Sunday, February 18.  This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme will bring the elements to life in six new, beautifully designed parade floats inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun and the moon. With Winter arriving in Central…

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Universal Orlando has released a new King Gator popcorn bucket for 2024 Mardi Gras. Inspired by the popular float, the popcorn bucket lights up, with the crown and beads illuminated when turned on. King Gator is available at Universal Orlando for $29.99 and comes with one free popcorn fill; and can be found throughout both parks. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards.

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Universal Orlando has transitioned the All Hallows’ Eve Boutique in Islands of Adventure to become the “Bayou Boutique” for this year’s Mardi Gras – featuring much of the event’s merchandise. The store is located in the Lost Continent, and transitions seasonally throughout the year; selling seasonal merchandise. Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2024 is running now through April 7 at Universal Studios Florida. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards.

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 5, 2024, to February 11, 2024. Universal Orlando 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This weekend will feature a concert on Saturday, February 10, with The All-American Rejects performing live. This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme will bring the elements to life in six new, beautifully designed parade floats inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun and the moon. With Winter arriving in Central Florida, Volcano Bay may close if the temperature is forecasted…

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From February 3 through April 7, guests will let the good times roll as they experience an authentic, family-friendly version of the Mardi Gras bash at Universal Studios Florida. The event will be held over 60+ nights – with the food booths open and the parade taking place every night. Mardi Gras couples unparalleled theme park entertainment with a dazzling parade, authentic New Orleans musicians, mouth-watering international cuisine, tons of glittering Mardi Gras beads, and live concerts by high-profile artists. We’ve gathered everything you need to know before heading out to the event, including parade times, and how to plan…

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The Mardi Gras Tribute Store has officially opened at Universal Studios Florida as Universal Orlando gears up for 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. The highly-themed store takes guests on a haunted river cruise through the Mississippi complete with beads, treats and a gator or two. Here, guests can shop for ultra-festive Mardi Gras merchandise to commemorate their visit – ranging from t-shirts, jean jackets and hoodies to bucket hats, cups and a gator light-up popcorn bucket The Tribute Store features 4 different rooms – first welcoming guests aboard the fictional steamer, The P.S. Songbird. As guests make…

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Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the Year of the Dragon as they have announced that Hollywood & Dine will serve specially-themed cuisine at the restaurant through February. In addition, Hello Kitty will be meeting guests in her Lunar New Year attire. https://x.com/UniStudios/status/1753504875130806569?s=20 Here’s a look at the menu for the Lunar New Year at Hollywood & Vine: Specialty Cocktail Dragon’s Breath  – $18.00 Baijiu, Amaretto, prickly pear syrup and ginger ale with a marshmallow gold sugar rim topped with dragon fruit Specialty Drinks Baby Dragon  – $11.00 Ginger ale, prickly pear syrup, and dragon fruit popping boba pearls with a marshmallow gold sugar rim…

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Universal Orlando has opened the “Monster Makeover: Become the Monster!” experience at Universal Studios Florida. The makeover-style experience is located at the 5 & Dime in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida. Guests can choose from 38 options of different monster makeovers, which are done by one of Universal’s makeup professionals – the same professionals that handle the makeup effects for Halloween Horror Nights. Guests must make a reservation at the 5 & Dime for the experience and can choose a full face of makeup for $125 or a half-face design for $65. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for…

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Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the 1st Anniversary of Super Nintendo World with “new ways to level up”, including the all-new Power Up Cafe, the debut of a commemorative, special-release Golden Power-Up Band, and a limited-edition complimentary 1-Year Anniversary Button. Opening on February 17, 2023 – Super Nintendo World features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, interactive activities throughout the Mushroom Kingdom, dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at the 1-UP Factory retail store. On February 15, the all-new Power Up Cafe opens on New York Street, located on the Upper Lot inside the theme park. This grab-and-go cafe…

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