One of the most anticipated events of Universal’s celebration of Mardi Gras is the nightly parade at Universal Studios. Did you know that Universal allows guests to ride on the parade floats and throw beads to other guests?!
Here’s how…
As an Annual Passholder
The easiest way to get onto a parade float, is to be an Annual Passholder. In January, Universal advertises a link to Passholders where you can sign up and show interest in riding a float. (You plus up to five guests.) Then, Universal does an internal lottery system and selects some of the Passholders who signed up to ride on a float.
The 2020 Annual Passholder Parade Float link is here.
About a week prior to the parade date, Passholders will receive an email if you’ve been selected to ride a float. You’ll need to respond to that email to let Universal know if you’ll be attending or not. After confirming, you’ll receive an email similar to the one below giving you additional information.
Not as An Annual Passholder
If you’re not an Annual Passholder, you can still join the Mardi Gras parade as a float rider. Each night, Universal offers a Stand By Line to fill empty spaces when Annual Passholders don’t show up. This line forms outside the Mardi Gras Float Rider check in area, near Barney’s Backyard play area.
The time to get in line will vary per day, because the parade is at different times on different days. We’d recommend checking out the area about 2 hours before the parade start time. Now, from experience, we’ve waited in the Float Rider Stand By line many times and gotten to ride. Sometimes, there is a line of 25 people two to three hours before the parade starts. Other times, there is no line. It’s all luck of the draw!
Things Float Riders Need to Know
- It’s a lot of standing around and waiting. You’ll first fill out a liability waiver and hear safety instructions. Then, you’ll get information about what is allowed and not allowed while backstage. Finally, you’ll get dressed and loaded on a float then given float specific safety information and instructions.
- Once you load the float, typically 45 minutes prior to the start of the parade, there’s no where to sit down, so be prepared to stand.
- All riders must be 18 or accompanied by and adult AND at least 48″ in height.
- Riders must be able to board and stand for the duration of the parade.
- No strollers or large bags are allowed on the floats.
- The parade staff can provide ADA accommodations with at least 48 hour notice to guest services.
- Oxygen tanks are not permitted on any float.
- Costumes (satin tops) are be provided and must be worn over your clothes.
- Large parties may be separated.
Riding on a float in Universal’s Mardi Gras parade is an experience you’ll never forget. But, if you can’t get on – catching beads is just as fun!