Universal Studios: Kelly Clarkson in Mardi Gras 2012 lineup

Kelly Clarkson, the first winner of American Idol, will return to the Universal Studios Mardi Gras concert series in February.

Universals website says Clarkson will perform on Feb. 18, one week after the theme parksannual event kicks off. The singer, who will be touring the United States in support of her Stronger album starting in January, appeared at Universals Mardi Gras in 2009. The complete 2012 concert lineup will be revealed soon, according to the site. For the 2011 concerts, the acts were unveiled in January.

Clarksons Mardi Gras appearance at the parks Music Plaza will be one of 14 concerts, according to the schedule, which cover 10 Saturday evening, three Friday night offerings plus one on a Sunday. Concert dates are Feb. 11, 18, 19, 25, March 3, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31, April 7 and 14.

Mardi Gras concerts (and parades) are included in regular theme-park admission to Universal Studios.