Weekend Things To Do: Orlando

Between Theme Parks And Sports There Are Plenty Of Things To Do In Orlando This Weekend

From Epcot to Universal to sporting events, there are many things to do this weekend in Orlando for the whole family to enjoy.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras is bringing the nightlife to Orlando and will run through March 24. The New Orleans party atmosphere is mixed up with a lineup of big-name concerts for another year of Mardi Gras fun at the theme park. The event will run for 50 straight nights and will feature Cajun and Creole cuisine, Mardi Gras parade, street performers, lots of bead tossing and Zydeco bands direct from Louisiana. On 12 of those 50 nights, major musicians including Olivia Newton-John on Mar. 5, Toby Keith on Mar. 12, and Jason Derulo on Mar. 18 will be in concert. The event is included with Universal Studios ticket or annual pass. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com.

Photo: Red Huber / Orlando Sentinel

Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival kicks off this week and will run through May 29th. Enjoy Outdoor Kitchen delectable small plates alongside flavorful non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages throughout the park. There will be more than 70 world-reowned Disney-themed topiaries as well as vibrant gardens, flower towers, wildlife habitats and walkways. The Garden Rock Outdoor COncert Series will feature throwback beats from fan-favorite bands. The festival is included with admission, which starts at $99 for a one-day ticket. disneyworld.disney.go.com.

Photo: Ricardo Ramirez Buxeda / Orlando Sentinel

Sports fans can also enjoy the weekend with a little basketball as the Orlando Magic get set to take on the Miami Heat Friday night at the Amway Center. The game is set to tip off at 7 p.m. and tickets for the game are as low as $24. It will be a great environment for a family night out. The Magic will then take on the New York Knicks on Monday at 7 p.m. Visit www.nba.com/magic for more information on tickets and the Magic’s full schedule of upcoming games.