Alton Towers’ Mardi Gras 2023 promised to bring the vibrant spirit of New Orleans to the UK, and while it delivered on several fronts, it also left us with a sense of missed opportunity. The event, now in its third year, has made some notable changes, both for better and worse, making it an overall mixed experience.
Krewes and Performances: Relocated for Convenience but Lacking Atmosphere
One of the key highlights of Mardi Gras at Alton Towers has always been the themed Krewes and their performances. This year, the park introduced a new layout, relocating the Krewes to more centralized areas. The intention behind this change was clear—make it easier for visitors to experience all the different elements of the event without having to trek across the expansive park. The Krewes, each representing different themed zones, still brought their colorful costumes, lively dances, and infectious energy to the event.
However, while the reorganization did make it more convenient to catch the performances, it also resulted in the rest of the park feeling somewhat neglected. The vibrant atmosphere that once permeated every corner of Alton Towers was now confined to specific areas, making the rest of the park feel like it had been left out of the party. The spontaneous bursts of joy and celebration that previously defined Mardi Gras were more contained, and this detracted from the immersive experience that guests have come to expect.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
One area where Mardi Gras 2023 did not disappoint was the food. Alton Towers has always excelled in providing a mouth-watering array of culinary delights during this event, and this year was no exception. From classic Creole dishes to innovative street food offerings, the food stalls were a feast for the senses. The attention to detail and authenticity in the dishes were commendable, making every bite a celebration in itself. Whether you were indulging in a spicy jambalaya or savoring a sweet beignet, the food alone was worth the visit.
A Questionable Future: Will Mardi Gras Return in 2024?
Despite the successes, there was an underlying sense that this year’s Mardi Gras might be the last of its kind. The changes in layout, while convenient, seemed to signal a shift away from the all-encompassing celebration that once defined the event. The reduced scope and energy raise concerns about whether the event will return in 2024, or if it does, whether it will maintain the same spirit.
In conclusion, while Mardi Gras 2023 at Alton Towers had its moments of brilliance—particularly with the food and the Floating Beer Garden—the overall experience felt somewhat diluted. The relocation of the Krewes made the event easier to navigate, but at the cost of the park’s overall atmosphere. If the event does return next year, we hope it can recapture the magic that made its earlier iterations so memorable.
