SeaWorld San Diego to stage 2026 Mardi Gras weekends with parade, live music, and Cajun food

A seasonal celebration scheduled for late January and February

SeaWorld San Diego has set dates for its 2026 Mardi Gras program, positioning it as a multi-weekend event that blends a New Orleans-inspired theme with family-oriented entertainment inside the park. The event is scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays from Jan. 24 through Feb. 22, 2026, and also includes two additional days: Friday, Feb. 13, and Monday, Feb. 16. The program is included with park admission.

Parade, performers and themed activities

The park’s Mardi Gras lineup centers on a themed parade and live entertainment designed around a French Quarter-style atmosphere. SeaWorld’s programming for 2026 includes costumed performers and music throughout the day, with activity areas near the SkyTower stage.

Among the announced additions is a set of live entertainment elements described as a DJ-driven offering alongside specialty performers, including ukulele performers and fire-dance presentations, which are expected to appear as scheduled activities during event days.

• Event days: weekends from Jan. 24 to Feb. 22, 2026, plus Feb. 13 and Feb. 16
• Core features: parade, live music, costumed performers, themed activity zones
• Included with park admission; park entry and operating hours apply

Food and drink menu draws from Creole and Cajun traditions

SeaWorld’s event description places strong emphasis on New Orleans-style food and beverages. The park’s Mardi Gras menu is expected to feature Creole and Cajun staples such as jambalaya and beignets, alongside additional themed treats and seasonal offerings. Alcoholic beverage options referenced for the event include traditional Mardi Gras-style cocktails such as Hurricanes and Juleps, offered within the park where alcohol service is available.

The 2026 concept is framed as a “family-friendly twist” on Mardi Gras traditions, mixing parade culture, music, and regional cuisine in a theme-park setting.

How it fits into San Diego’s broader Mardi Gras calendar

Mardi Gras-themed celebrations in San Diego range from neighborhood bar events to large, ticketed festivals. SeaWorld’s version distinguishes itself by keeping the focus inside an all-ages destination and spreading programming across multiple weekends, which can make it easier for local families and visitors to choose dates around school and work schedules.

For guests planning to attend, the most important practical factors will be selecting a date within the limited run, arriving early enough to catch parade timing, and budgeting separately for food and beverage purchases beyond admission.