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When is the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival?

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival typically blooms from early March to late May. For 2025, you can expect the festival to run from February 28th to May 26th, 2025. This annual event transforms Epcot into a vibrant tapestry of colorful blooms, whimsical topiaries, and engaging garden-themed exhibits. It’s a celebration of springtime and the artistry of horticulture that draws visitors from around the globe.

Unveiling the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Beyond simply admiring pretty flowers, the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival offers a multifaceted experience. Think live entertainment, themed food and beverage offerings, interactive exhibits for the whole family, and of course, the iconic Disney character topiaries meticulously crafted by talented horticulturalists. It’s more than just a visual feast; it’s an immersive journey into the world of gardening and outdoor living.

The extended duration of the festival allows ample opportunity for visitors to plan their trips, whether you’re a local or traveling from afar. The extended run also means you are more likely to find favorable weather, dodging the peak heat and humidity that can sometimes plague Florida summers.

What Makes This Festival So Special?

This isn’t your average flower show. The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival seamlessly blends the magic of Disney with the beauty of nature. The sheer scale of the event is impressive, with hundreds of thousands of bedding plants, elaborate floral displays, and breathtaking topiary creations.

Here are some key highlights that set this festival apart:

Stunning Topiaries: Witness beloved Disney characters brought to life in magnificent topiary form. From Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to classic princesses and modern favorites, these sculpted creations are photo opportunities galore.
Garden Rocks Concert Series: Groove to the tunes of popular bands from various genres at the Garden Rocks Concert Series. This live music event adds a vibrant soundtrack to your festival experience.
Outdoor Kitchens: Indulge in delectable dishes and refreshing beverages at the Outdoor Kitchens scattered throughout World Showcase. These culinary kiosks offer garden-inspired flavors and seasonal specialties.
Interactive Exhibits: Engage in hands-on activities and educational displays that cater to all ages. Learn about gardening techniques, sustainable practices, and the importance of pollinators.
Breathtaking Floral Displays: Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors as you stroll through themed gardens showcasing a diverse array of blooms. From vibrant flower beds to cascading hanging baskets, the floral displays are truly captivating.

Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival with these insider tips:

Visit Mid-Week: To avoid the largest crowds, plan your visit for a weekday, particularly Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
Utilize FastPass+ (Genie+): Take advantage of the Genie+ service to reserve time slots for popular attractions and minimize wait times.
Arrive Early: Arriving at Epcot before park opening allows you to experience the festival at a more leisurely pace before the crowds swell.
Stay Hydrated: Florida weather can be unpredictable, so remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Take Your Time: The festival is sprawling, so allow ample time to explore all the gardens, exhibits, and culinary offerings.
Check the Festival Guide: Pick up a festival guide at the park entrance to map out your route and discover all the hidden gems.
Consider a Festival Passport: Purchase a Festival Passport to track your progress as you sample culinary delights from the Outdoor Kitchens.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival FAQs

1. How much does it cost to attend the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival?

The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is included with your regular Epcot park admission. You’ll need a valid ticket to enter the park. However, some activities, like the food and beverages at the outdoor kitchens, and select merchandise, will incur an additional cost.

2. Is the Flower & Garden Festival good for kids?

Absolutely! The festival offers plenty of activities and attractions that are specifically designed for children. The topiaries are a huge hit, and there are interactive play areas and scavenger hunts that keep kids engaged and entertained.

3. What are the best topiaries to see at the festival?

That’s a matter of personal preference! However, some perennial favorites include the classic Mickey and Minnie Mouse topiaries, as well as those featuring princesses, Toy Story characters, and characters from newer Disney films. Each year brings new and exciting additions, so be sure to explore and discover your own favorites.

4. What kind of food can I expect at the Outdoor Kitchens?

The Outdoor Kitchens offer a diverse range of culinary creations, all inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients. You can expect to find everything from savory dishes like grilled street corn and seafood tacos to sweet treats like berry scones and lavender ice cream. There are also plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

5. Are there any educational opportunities at the festival?

Yes! The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival offers a wealth of educational opportunities for gardeners of all levels. There are informative exhibits on topics like pollination, sustainable gardening practices, and plant identification. You can also attend workshops and demonstrations led by expert horticulturists.

6. What is the Garden Rocks Concert Series?

The Garden Rocks Concert Series is a live music event that takes place throughout the festival. Popular bands from various genres perform daily, adding a vibrant soundtrack to the festival atmosphere. The lineup changes each year, so be sure to check the schedule to see who’s performing during your visit.

7. Can I purchase plants or gardening supplies at the festival?

Yes, you can! The festival offers a variety of merchandise, including plants, gardening tools, seeds, and other gardening-related items. You can find these items at various merchandise locations throughout Epcot.

8. What should I wear to the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival?

Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers, as the weather in Florida can be unpredictable. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended to protect yourself from the sun.

9. Is the festival accessible for guests with disabilities?

Yes, Epcot is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all guests. The park offers a variety of accessibility services, including wheelchair rentals, sign language interpretation, and assistive listening devices.

10. How does the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival compare to the Epcot Food & Wine Festival?

Both festivals are popular events that take place at Epcot, but they have different themes. The Flower & Garden Festival focuses on horticulture, floral displays, and outdoor living, while the Food & Wine Festival focuses on culinary experiences and beverages from around the world. Both festivals offer live entertainment and interactive activities.

11. What happens to the topiaries after the festival ends?

The topiaries are carefully removed after the festival and often relocated to other areas within Walt Disney World, sometimes finding a new home at other resorts or parks. This allows guests to enjoy the artistry and beauty of the topiaries even after the festival has concluded.

12. Is there a specific app I can use to navigate the festival?

The My Disney Experience app is your best resource for navigating the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival. You can use the app to view the festival schedule, find maps of the park, check wait times for attractions, make dining reservations, and even mobile order food from the Outdoor Kitchens. It’s an essential tool for planning and maximizing your festival experience.