Universal Orlando’s 2022 Mardi Gras celebration starts February 5th, but Annual Passholders have already been able to preview the traditional Mardi Gras Tribute Store! We were so thrilled to check it out! Let’s take a virtual walk through this awesome shopping location.
Warning: Spoilers for the 2022 Mardi Gras Tribute Store ahead!
This year, the Tribute Store is themed as a giant “Float Factory” – demonstrating the creative process from concept design to ultimate fruition. While parade floats are obviously a big part of this specific Tribute Store’s design, the theming also celebrates the history and creativity of past Tribute Stores and their significance to Universal audiences.
Opening Foyer
We start our journey at the very beginning – project planning! In the opening foyer you’ll find an active work table with examples/inspiration from past Tribute Stores, a project calendar, and LOTS of artwork!
Of course, we can’t have a Tribute Store without plenty of Earl the Squirrel references! Check the post-it in the corner of the calendar.
Concepts & Ideas Warehouse
After the foyer, it’s time for the Concept Warehouse! Filled with props and work tables, we can tell float creators are still hard at work designing their masterpieces!
Fabrication & Build
In this room, the artist’s concepts start to come to life! In the centerpiece, we see a final version of an alligator head begin to take shape – with other props and floats in various states of construction around the room.
Mardi Gras Tribute Store Hallway
In the Transition Hallway, Universal has posted nostalgic photos from year’s past – celebrating Mardi Gras history!
Scenic & Paint
It’s time to add some color to these floats!
Mardi Gras Tribute Store Showroom
And, of course, the final room includes a finished version of the Alligator float – among others!
This year’s Mardi Gras snack selection is more limited than I expected. But there are still lots of yummy desserts available – including a massive Margarita Shaker Cake (for $18)!
Read More: Universal Debuts Limited Time Monster Tribute Store!
Mardi Gras Tribute Store Final Tag
As always, the Tribute Store ends with a final tag. For 2022, this tag celebrates jazz music, bead throwing, and the spirit of Mardi Gras!
As with any Universal Tribute Store, the Mardi Gras Float Factory will not be around forever! Come check it out while you can, and stay tuned for more coverage of Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras celebration!
