Running select days from now until March 6th, you can celebrate Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! With specialty food options, live entertainment, and lots of beads; this event offers a colorful and fun way to start the new year.
This isn’t the first time that Busch Gardens has held their own Mardi Gras, but it was my first time seeing it in person. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I ultimately really enjoyed the fun-loving atmosphere, talented entertainers, and beautiful decor included in this event!
Busch Gardens Mardi Gras
Instead of being spread out around the park, like many other attraction-based festivals, Busch Gardens Mardi Gras is contained to Bird Gardens (near Garden Gate Cafe). You’ll know you’ve entered the festival area when you pass through the “gates.”
Inside the Festival area, you’ll find the parade route, colorful decor, the main stage for musical acts, and specialty food and drink.
Live Entertainment
Mardi Gras Parade
Multiple times throughout the day, guests can enjoy a short Mardi Gras parade, culminating in a joyous dance party near the main stage. While the show only lasts a few minutes, I enjoyed the energetic music and colorful costumes.
Contrary to traditional expectations, no beads are thrown during the parade. Instead, guests should head over to the Bead Garden (directly across from the main stage) for their opportunity to accessorize. This area isn’t always staffed, so check with a Busch Gardens team member to find out the next available time slot.
Mardi Gras Music
On the main stage, you’ll find the Busch Gardens Brass Band as well as a selection of local acts. Available musicians will change daily, so make sure you check the current park schedule for the most up to date information.
Mardi Gras Food
Throughout the courtyard, there are nine different specialty food and drink booths serving traditional Mardi Gras dishes – including beignets, po’ boys, shrimp and grits, and even dirty rice made with IMPOSSIBLE meat.
Busch Gardens Mardi Gras Food & Beverage Sampler
There are sampler lanyards available for those wishing to try multiple dishes. Five-item lanyards are sold for $35, and ten-item lanyards are available for $55. Lanyards can be purchased onsite or online.
Freaky Thoughts: Busch Gardens Mardi Gras
While Busch Gardens Mardi Gras operates on a smaller scale than some of the corresponding festivals in the area, I loved having all of the entertainment and offerings in a contained space. It allows those that want to participate to fully immerse themselves in the Mardi Gras atmosphere, but it also provides an easy way to avoid the event if a guest prefers.
As for the festival itself, I really enjoyed it! The parade was colorful and fun. The live music added to the New Orleans atmosphere, and there were plenty of beads for everyone. I also enjoyed just walking around Bird Gardens to take in the decor and themed displays.
Mardi Gras is included with park admission, so it’s a great option for both annual passholders and daytime ticket holders. BUT it only runs on select dates through March 6, so make sure to plan your visit soon!
