After the busy holiday season and before the Spring Break rush, Orlando theme parks usually see a big drop-off in attendance. While mid-winter may seem like an ideal time to grab cheap flights to Orlando and enjoy fun in the sun, the reality is that many folks are too busy settling back into their school and work routines this time of year.

To fill the winter void, Orlando parks are increasingly turning to musical acts to attract crowds and create a local buzz. This year appears no different with more than 300,000 concert-goers expected to descend upon Orlando over the next few weeks, according to a report from the Orlando Sentinel.

Universal Studios is leading the way, with plans to ring in its 2012 Universal Mardi Gras celebration with a 10-weekend, 14 act concert series. Headliners include pop sensation Kelly Clarkson, rapper B.o.B, soul singer Diana Ross, and new teen heartthrobs Big Time Rush.

SeaWorld will counter with a four-weekend “Bands, Brew & BBQ Fest,” featuring high-profile country acts like American Idol winner Scotty McCreery and Sara Evans. Disney, meanwhile,  is aiming to please mom and dad. DisneyWorld is planning a March “Flower Power” series, bringing in artists from the 1960s and ’70s, including the Turtles and former Monkees star Davy Jones.

Hoping to catch a show? There are no additional charges to attend most of the concerts but regular park admission prices apply.

CC Flickr photo credit: Lall