Akon, Sheryl Crow Among Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Performers

January 7, 2010 12:04 p.m. EST

Orlando, FL, United States (CNS) - Universal Orlando has announced the line-up for their annual Mardi Gras festivities. Now in its 15th year, this year's Mardi Gras at the blockbuster theme park and resort will include superstar acts like Akon, Sheryl Crow, Blondie, and Dierks Bentley.

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios kicks off Saturday, February 6th with returning performers KC and the Sunshine Band. On Saturday, February 13th, Heart return to Universal to perform their hits like "Alone" and "Barracuda" at Mardi Gras once again, while Kool & the Gang join the line-up for another year, performing on Saturday, February 20th.

Mardi Gras will also bring some top country acts to the bill. CMA Award Winner Dierks Bentley performs on Saturday, February 27th, while #1 Country artist Miranda Lambert performs on Saturday, March 20th.

Current chart-toppers Akon and Flo Rida also hit the new Music Plaza in Universal Studios for Mardi Gras. "Sexy B----" singer Akon will perform Saturday, March 6th, while the Florida-native Flo Rida will perform Saturday, April 10th.

Music icon Sheryl Crow will perform Friday, April 9th, while soul diva Aretha Franklin performs Saturday, March 13th.

Mardi Gras celebrates its 15th year with the live entertainment, parades, Cajun cuisine, and tons of beads that has made it the biggest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans. The Mardi Gras concerts are included with admission to Universal Studios. Special After 5pm Mardi Gras tickets will also be available for admission to concerts and festivities.

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort 2010

Full Line-Up:

• Sat., Feb. 6: KC and The Sunshine Band
• Sat., Feb. 13: Heart
• Sun., Feb. 14: Kool & the Gang
• Sat., Feb. 20: Blondie
• Sat., Feb. 27: Dierks Bentley
• Sat., March 6: Akon
• Sat., March 13: Aretha Franklin
• Sat., March 20: Miranda Lambert
• Sat., March 27: 3 Doors Down
• Sat., April 3: Beach Boys
• Fri., April 9: Sheryl Crow
• Sat., April 10: Flo Rida
• Sat., April 17: Chicago