Two major festivals — Universal’s Mardi Gras and SeaWorld’s Bands, Brew & BBQ are added into the regular mix this week at Orlando theme parks and attractions. Here’s a look at what’s up in the coming days.
+ The first night of Mardi Gras is Saturday at Universal Studios. New floats in this year’s parade go with the theme “Colorful Cultures Around the World.” Think Chinese New Year, Day of the Dead, etc. The parade steps off at 7:45 p.m. On the Music Plaza stage at 8:30 p.m. will be Lifehouse. Mardi Gras activities are included in regular park admission. More info: www.universalorlando.com/mardigras2013
+ SeaWorld will start its Bands, Brew & BBQ with activities Saturday and Sunday, the first of six consecutive weekends for the event. Performers at the Saturday concert are Chris Young with Jerrod Niemann, followed by Merle Haggard on Sunday. Show time is 4 p.m. both days. Brew and barbecue starts being served at 11:30 a.m. Activities are included in regular SeaWorld admission. More info: www.seaworldorlando.com.
+ Busch Gardens’ version of BBBBQ spotlights John Kay and Steppenwolf at 5 p.m. on Sunday. It’s included in regular Busch Gardens admission. The Tampa theme park’s Real Music Series picks up Wednesday with concerts by Paul Revere & the Raiders at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. daily through Saturday. More info: www.buschgardens.com/bgt.
+ It’s Lego Friends Weekend at Legoland Florida in Winter Haven. Five female Lego characters play host to events such as the “Girls Just Wanna Build Bash,” karaoke, a hunt for furry animals in Cypress Gardens, paparazzi moments on a pink carpet and more. It’s included in regular Legoland Florida admission on Saturday and Sunday. More info: www.legoland.com.
+ And Fun Spot is seeking dancers for a new television commercial. Rehearsal is Monday and the taping is Wednesday at Fun Spot’s Kissimmee location. Click here to read more about the Fun Spot commercial — and its rewards.
