TAMPA, Fla. — Mardi Gras marks the end of Carnival season, but not at Busch Gardens.


What You Need To Know

  • Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens continues weekends through March 5

  • Several parades will be held each day, with beignets and other New Orleans-style offerings

  • Performers like Devin Collins bring the joie de vivre

From the expert glitter application on his face to the green Chucks on his feet, Devin Collins is the walking embodiment of Mardi Gras ensconced in purple, green and gold — the holiday colors.

“Basically, anything you that you throw at any of our performers, we learn it, we master it, we throw it in the show,” said Collins.

Devin Collins started here with stilt walking in 2008, so the intricate Mardi Gras stage make-up is no big deal.

It’s prepping and performing with his friends that puts Collins at ease, especially in the moments before they go live in the park.

“There’s so much love and passion here within our Busch Gardens family, so we really like to just show that to our guests,” Collins said.

Couple the performers with New Orleans jazz, and the crowds get wise quick. It’s parade time.

“The vibe? they’re ready to party!” Collins said about the crowds, over the cacophony of music and clapping.

The best part comes last — throwing the beads.

“We have fun, the kids love this," said Collins. "We get to bring a smile to everybody’s faces."

Happy Mardi Gras, Devin Collins.