We went inside the exclusive Busch Gardens Mardi Gras preview! See the new food, exclusive beads, and festive entertainment at the Gwazi Pavilion.
Laissez les bons temps rouler! We just stepped out of the Gwazi Pavilion, and the energy was absolutely electric. Tonight, January 23, 2026, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay treated pass members to an exclusive first look at this year’s Mardi Gras celebration, and we’ve got the full scoop before the festival officially opens to the public tomorrow. If you weren’t able to make the 4:00–7:00 p.m. window, here is what you missed (and what you have to look forward to this season)!
Busch Gardens Mardi Gras: First Tastes of the French Quarter
The Gwazi Pavilion was transformed into a mini Bourbon Street for the Busch Gardens Mardi Gras preview. We spent most of our time sampling the two available new Mardi Gras food items. For a full list of Busch Gardens Mardi Gras food and beverage items, click here.
Each passmember could try the two Mardi Gras food offerings, and alcoholic beverages were available as well as soft drinks. A promotion giveaway was who found a baby in their King Cake. We did and earned a five-sample Mardi Gras lanyard that we plan to put to good use tomorrow.
Also, during the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay pass members preview, guests could view some animal of the theme park. The animal care ambassadors had an armadillo and an alligator while we were there.
Photo by Jon Self
| Item | Our Verdict |
| Cajun Shrimp & Andouille Jambalaya | This classic Mardi Gras dish did its job. it was not the best, but it was not bad either. |
| Mardi Gras King Cake | These were a huge improvement over last year. Guests will need to be ready for heavy icing on top. Still, these offered a reasonable Mardi Gras-like experience. |
| Stilt Walkers and Entertainers | They did a wonderful job. In fact, they were exceptional with the children. |
Festive Vibes & Entertainment
The entertainment team really brought their A-game. We were treated to a “sneak peek” performance by the street performers. The stilt walkers were out in full force in their elaborate purple and gold costumes, posing for photos and getting everyone hyped for the full parades starting tomorrow.
Note for the Season: The full festival runs Saturdays and Sundays from Jan 24 – March 1.
According to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can savor the flavors of the bayou with over 25 mouthwatering menu items, including crowd-pleasing dishes like Crawfish Boudin Ball and Shrimp and Grits, as well as returning favorites like handcrafted cocktails and iconic warm beignets. It’s a culinary journey that pairs perfectly with world-class roller coasters, thrilling rides, and family fun. The best way to experience Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens is with a sampler lanyard. Indulge in immersive flavors with a five-punch sampler for only $34.99.
Busch Gardens Pass Members: Don’t Forget Your Other January Perks
While you’re at the park this weekend to catch the official kickoff, make sure you take advantage of your other monthly rewards:
- Free Guest Ticket: Valid all through January for Bronze through Platinum members.
- $10 Busch Bucks: We will use ours this weekend.
- Free 2026 Calendar: Swing by Xcursions to grab yours before they run out.
For more details about Busch Gardens Mardi Gras, visit the official Busch Gardens Tampa Bay website. We will be back this weekend when the full Busch Gardens Mardi Gras experience begins. Laissez les bons temps rouler! or Let the Good Times Roll, if you prefer!
For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News. As always, eat like you mean it!
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