How busy are the parks on Presidents Day?

[bearzabout]

We were going to visit IOA/Universal on Monday 2/18. I wanted to see the Mardi Gras parade but just learned that it is not scheduled for that night. I am wondering if we should still go anyway.

Has anyone been to the parks on President's Day? Any comments on expected crowds? Anyone have an opinion whether Sunday 2/17 might be less crowded?

Is it possible to see the Mardi Gras Parade from the City Walk area?

Lee Greenwood has a concert scheduled at Seaworld on 2/16 so we may go there Saturday. I would love to hear opinions about Seaworld's Bud & BBQ Fest.

It is so hard to choose what to do on our short trip. Any insight would be helpful.

 

[BarryHom]

I've never been to the parks on President's Day, but the parade cannot be seen from Citywalk. You have to be inside USF to see it.

 

[dreamer]

We spent Pres Day 2001 at IOA/USF we were staying at the HRH and had fotl access. I didn't think the crowds were that bad, but did break midday for a swim. The parade was very crowded that Monday night, but we had so much fun! This year plans are to have parades only on Fri & Sat. nights in Feb. so I would imagine it to be packed those nights. We also have thoughts of SW on 2/16 or 2/17 this year and wonder what past crowds were like.

 

[capgirl]

The universal site states the parade is daily, doesn't say only Friday & Saturday. Any further info???
I don't know about President's day, we will be arriving the day after.

 

[Gator Kate]

If the soldout hotels at WDW and USF are any indication it should be a busy one. There's also a big race in Daytona that weekend to make matters worse. All that said, we'll be amongst the gluttons for punishment that will be there too.