While it might be a little late to take a trip to the Big Easy, both Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando are celebrating the New Orleans Mardi Gras vibe as part of their spring events. From food and beverages to special performances, everyone is hoping their feet won’t fail them while experiencing all the fun.
Theme parks have shown that food, beverages, and special events drive both locals and visitors to the theme parks. Many people highlight calendar dates for food festivals. As they can almost taste that first bite, the delicious offerings encourage another visit.
This year, both Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando have segments of their spring festivals that put a taste of New Orleans front and center. While the menus features food from around the world, now is the time to feast on some Big Easy favorites.
Universal Orlando International Flavors of Carnaval
With nightly parades, pop-up music performances, and those signature beignets, Universal Orlando knows how to bring a taste of New Orleans to Florida. For 30 years, the annual event has become a signature for the theme park.
While everyone loves catching beads from the parade floats, the food and beverages bring a taste of authenticity to event. Although there might not be a larger seafood boil dinner from years past, many signature New Orleans dishes are front and center.
Of course, the beignets are always a highlight. The authentic recipe served hot and fresh are irresistible. While some people might wish for a cafe au lait with it, there are plenty of other beverages to sip.
In addition to Abita, Pimm’s Cocktail and other traditional favorites, a new cocktail is a must try. Located in the Coca Cola Market Square, the Doberge Cake Cocktail captures the essence of that signature dessert. While some people eat the chocolate and lemon cake separately, this cocktail brings the two flavors together. Definitely a sweet sip, the carbonation helps to keep it from being too cloying. For anyone who likes to sip their dessert, this cocktail is a must order.
SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival
The long running SeaWorld Orlando Seven Seas Food Festival features delicacies from around the world. During the Mardi Gras season, the theme park is offering special performances around the theme park.
Additionally, one of the marketplaces, Gulf Coast Market, features New Orleans food, included Boudin Balls and Cajun Shrimp and Grits. The SeaWorld culinary team reinterpreted the classic beignets by infusing another popular dessert.
The bananas fosters beignets showcase how the SeaWorld culinary team is looking to elevate the food and beverage experience. Some people might never have eaten bananas fosters. At the same time, the flavor is approachable.
While Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando might have battling New Orleans inspired food choices for their springtime festivals, the real winner is clear. It is the guests. Delicious food, refreshing beverages, and a plenty of time to enjoy the offerings and time again.
Bringing the two desserts together in a single bite makes for a great mashup. It is exciting and gets people to be a touch more food adventurous.
Overall, SeaWorld’s approach to Mardi Gras is more subtle than Universal Orlando’s. But, having options in the theme park capital of the world is always a good thing. That taste of New Orleans might spark a trip to the Bjg Easy next year.