What is the Next Festival at Epcot?

The next festival at Epcot is the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, a culinary extravaganza celebrating global flavors and cultures, kicking off in late summer and running through the fall. It’s a foodie’s paradise and a delightful experience for anyone who enjoys good food, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Epcot Festival Lineup: A Perpetual Celebration

Epcot, the park dedicated to global culture and technological innovation, has become synonymous with its rotating series of festivals. These events inject fresh life and excitement into the park year-round, offering unique experiences that go beyond the regular attractions. The festivals include:

• Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Celebrating visual, culinary, and performing arts.
• Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival: A vibrant display of horticultural artistry.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: A culinary journey around the world.
• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: Celebrating holiday traditions from around the globe.

Each festival offers a distinct theme, special events, and merchandise, ensuring there’s always something new to discover at Epcot.

The Allure of the Food & Wine Festival: More Than Just Eating

The Food & Wine Festival is arguably Epcot’s most popular, drawing crowds with its enticing array of global marketplaces. These booths, scattered throughout World Showcase and Future World (now divided into World Discovery, World Nature, and World Celebration), offer sample-sized portions of dishes and drinks representing different countries and regions. It’s a delicious way to taste the world without leaving the park.

Navigating the Culinary Landscape

Beyond the marketplaces, the Food & Wine Festival offers a wide range of culinary experiences:

• Cooking Demonstrations: Learn from renowned chefs and culinary experts.
• Beverage Seminars: Discover the art of wine, beer, and spirits.
• Special Dining Events: Indulge in unique dining experiences, often featuring celebrity chefs.
• Eat to the Beat Concert Series: Enjoy live musical performances from popular artists.
• Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt: A fun activity for the whole family, searching for Remy figurines hidden throughout the park.

Planning Your Food & Wine Adventure

To make the most of the Food & Wine Festival, careful planning is essential. Consider these tips:

• Study the Menus: Prioritize the dishes and drinks you want to try. Menus are usually released several weeks before the festival begins.
• Purchase a Festival Passport: This booklet lists all the marketplace menus and special events.
• Utilize Mobile Ordering: Skip the lines at select marketplaces by ordering through the My Disney Experience app.
• Consider a Disney Gift Card: Load up a gift card to easily pay for your purchases.
• Pace Yourself: With so many tempting options, it’s easy to overindulge. Drink plenty of water and take breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When does the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival typically start?

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival typically begins in late summer, usually around the end of August or the very beginning of September. The exact dates vary from year to year, so it’s always best to check the official Disney World website for the most up-to-date information.

2. How long does the Food & Wine Festival last?

The festival is one of Epcot’s longest-running events, usually spanning several months, typically ending in mid-November. This extended duration gives guests ample opportunity to experience all the culinary delights and entertainment it has to offer.

3. Do I need a separate ticket to attend the Food & Wine Festival?

No, you do not need a separate ticket to enter the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The festival is included with regular Epcot park admission. However, the food and beverages at the marketplace booths are not free and must be purchased separately. Certain special events, like cooking demonstrations and beverage seminars, may require an additional fee and advance booking.

4. Are the marketplaces open all day?

Yes, the marketplace booths are typically open throughout the day, coinciding with Epcot’s operating hours. However, specific opening and closing times may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the festival guide or the My Disney Experience app for the most accurate information on any given day.

5. What kind of food can I expect at the festival?

The food at the festival is incredibly diverse, representing cuisines from around the globe. You’ll find everything from classic comfort food to exotic dishes you may have never tried before. Expect a wide range of flavors, ingredients, and culinary styles, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

6. Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?

Yes, many marketplaces offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. These dietary accommodations are typically clearly marked on the menus. If you have specific dietary concerns, it’s always best to inquire with the cast members at the booths.

7. Is the festival family-friendly?

Absolutely! While the festival is centered around food and beverages, it offers plenty of activities for the whole family. The Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt is a particularly popular activity for kids, and there are often family-friendly entertainment options available.

8. How much should I budget for food and drinks at the festival?

Budgeting for the festival depends on your appetite and how much you plan to sample. Individual dishes and drinks typically range from $5 to $10 each. A good starting point would be to budget around $50-$100 per person, but this can vary significantly depending on your preferences.

9. How can I make reservations for special events?

Reservations for special dining events, cooking demonstrations, and beverage seminars can be made online through the My Disney Experience app or the Disney World website. It’s highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, as these events often sell out quickly.

10. What is the Eat to the Beat Concert Series?

The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is a highlight of the Food & Wine Festival, featuring live musical performances from popular artists. Concerts are held nightly at the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. Admission to the concerts is included with Epcot park admission, but seating is often limited. You can guarantee your seat with the purchase of an Eat to the Beat Dining Package, which includes a meal at a participating Epcot restaurant.

11. What kind of merchandise is available at the festival?

The Food & Wine Festival offers a wide range of exclusive merchandise, including apparel, accessories, kitchenware, and collectibles. Many items feature the festival’s logo and characters, making them perfect souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

12. What tips do you have for navigating the crowds at the festival?

To navigate the crowds effectively, consider these tips:

• Visit during the weekdays: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
• Arrive early: Head to the festival as soon as Epcot opens to beat the rush.
• Utilize mobile ordering: Skip the lines at select marketplaces by ordering through the My Disney Experience app.
• Explore World Showcase in a counter-clockwise direction: This can sometimes help avoid the heaviest foot traffic.
• Take breaks: Find a quiet spot to relax and recharge.

Enjoy the journey through the enchanting experience the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival offers. It’s a celebration of flavors, cultures, and the magic of Disney.