The Tribute Stores at Universal Orlando have evolved into world-class walk-through attractions. These seasonal stores rotate in a merchandise area of New York in Universal Studios Florida.

This concept started during Halloween Horror Nights. The Tribute Store allowed Universal’s creative teams more opportunity to excite guests with theming. Later, these store concepts began happening for Mardi Gras and the “Holiday” season. In summer 2021, Universal even impressed us with a Jurassic World Tribute Store. Whatever Universal currently is working on will be sure to excite guests for Mardi Gras 2022.

Here are some Tribute Store entrances from the past:

These temporary merchandise stores traditionally have four sections. Guests move from one room to the next. In recent years, a food/beverage area calls to guests along their journey. Universal chefs design some excellent treats for guest’s delight. For some guests, the treats in the Tribute Store serve as highlight of their Mardi Gras experience.

So, what do we know about the store for this year?

First, we anticipate the store opening at least a few days before Mardi Gras starts on February 5^th, 2022 (lasting until April 23^rd, 2022). Second, we anticipate another fabulous façade adorning the entrance. As with all aspects of these stores, Universal places a great deal of time in preparing something used for only a few months. If you visit a Universal Orlando Tribute Store, take some time to notice the details and “Easter eggs.”

Fortunately, Universal Orlando gave us a few more details. The title of the store this year is “Float Factory Warehouse.” According to Universal, guests will experience four highly themed rooms designed to visually depict the creative process of making a Mardi Gras float in all aspects.

In this process, guests may browse Mardi Gras gear and themed treats. Within this store, pencil sketches and scale models of floats surround guests as they walk through. In addition, large amounts of parade décor set the scene. Guests move from room to room learning more about floats and parades. Universal Orlando states that an actual size Mardi Gras float will be found within this store.

The creative team states they desire guests to see parades brought to life. Well, I, for one, possess curiosity on how a full-size float will fit in the store’s rooms. Maybe, the float will be outdoors at end of store.

Soon, we will find out more.

These stores offer so much for guests visiting Mardi Gras. If you can visit between February 5^th and April 23^rd, then plan some time to visit this “float factory.”