EPCOT Festivals: The Ultimate Guide

What truly sets EPCOT apart from the rest are the unmissable EPCOT festivals that take place throughout the year.

In this EPCOT Festivals guide you’ll learn about each of the four main festivals at EPCOT every year:

  1. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts – A celebration of creativity, bursting with live entertainment, fine arts, and culinary masterpieces.
  2. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival – A vibrant, floral wonderland featuring horticultural displays, outdoor kitchens, and enchanting topiaries.
  3. EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival – A culinary voyage across the globe, showcasing mouthwatering dishes, culinary demonstrations, and beverage seminars.
  4. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays – A heartwarming exploration of holiday traditions, offering seasonal storytelling, festive entertainment, and delicious food and beverages.

In the following sections, discover what each festival is about in our EPCOT Festivals guide at Walt Disney World.

EPCOT Festivals: Dates

  1. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: January 13, 2023, to February 20, 2023
  2. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: March 1, 2023, to July 5, 2023
  3. EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival: The exact dates for the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival in 2023 have not been announced yet. However, in 2022, the festival took place from July 14th through November 19th.
  4. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays: The exact dates for the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays in 2023 have not been announced yet. In 2022, the festival took place from November 25th through December 30th.

1. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Hold onto your Mickey ears because the first festival in our EPCOT festivals guide is the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

This colorful celebration takes place from mid-January to late February, turning EPCOT into a vibrant canvas of artistic inspiration.

Highlights of the Festival

Live Entertainment

Ready for some show-stopping performances?

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is jam-packed with live entertainment, from breathtaking acrobatics to mesmerizing chalk artists.

Don’t forget to catch the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, where you’ll be dazzled by the powerhouse voices of Disney’s Broadway stars belting out your favorite tunes.

Talk about a magical musical experience!

Fine Arts

As you wander through the park, you’ll discover a treasure trove of fine art exhibits showcasing the work of talented Disney artists and other creatives.

Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney characters or a lover of abstract expressionism, there’s something for everyone!

And, who knows?

You might even find that perfect piece of art to take home and cherish forever.

Culinary Arts

Feeling peckish?

Well, my fellow foodies, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a culinary paradise!

Feast your eyes (and taste buds) on the art-inspired dishes and beverages available at the festival’s Food Studios.

From colorfully crafted sushi rolls to jaw-droppingly gorgeous desserts, every morsel is a masterpiece just waiting to be devoured.

2. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Calling all green-thumbed Disney lovers!

The second festival in our EPCOT festivals guide is EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

From March 1 to July 5, EPCOT blossoms into a vibrant wonderland of colorful blooms and enchanting topiaries during the International Flower & Garden Festival.

This annual celebration of all things flora is a must-see for anyone who adores the beauty of nature, sprinkled with a little Disney magic, of course!

Highlights of the Festival

Horticultural Displays

Prepare to be amazed as you meander through EPCOT’s breathtaking horticultural displays, featuring an explosion of vivid colors and delightful fragrances.

From intricate flower beds to whimsical butterfly gardens, the International Flower & Garden Festival showcases the very best of Mother Nature’s handiwork.

Even the most seasoned gardeners will find inspiration here!

Outdoor Kitchens

If you’re a foodie with a penchant for fresh, garden-inspired dishes, you’ll adore the Outdoor Kitchens scattered throughout the festival.

These delightful food booths offer a smorgasbord of mouthwatering treats, all crafted with the freshest ingredients.

Don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing springtime libation!

Topiaries and Garden Sculptures

Get ready to be wowed by the festival’s pièce de résistance: the topiaries and garden sculptures featuring your favorite Disney characters!

From a towering Sorcerer Mickey to a blooming Beauty and the Beast, these enchanting works of art are sure to make your heart sing and your camera snap nonstop.

Special Events and Activities

Eggstravaganza Scavenger Hunt

Looking for some family-friendly fun?

Embark on the Eggstravaganza Scavenger Hunt, a delightful adventure that takes you on a quest to find painted eggs hidden throughout the World Showcase.

Crack the clues, and you might just uncover a special surprise!

Garden Rocks Concert Series

Ready to rock out with your Mickey ears on?

The Garden Rocks Concert Series brings a lineup of chart-topping artists to the America Gardens Theatre stage.

With genres ranging from classic rock to pop, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

3. EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

Attention, gastronomes and Disney devotees!

Third in our EPCOT festivals guide is the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival.

If you have a passion for exploring the flavors of the world, the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is your culinary dream come true.

This epicurean extravaganza typically takes place from mid-July to mid-November, transforming EPCOT into a foodie’s paradise, with delectable dishes and tantalizing libations from around the globe.

Highlights of the Festival

Global Marketplaces

Pack your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure like no other!

The festival’s Global Marketplaces are a smorgasbord of taste sensations, with food booths representing a diverse array of countries and regions.

Savor the spicy notes of Indian cuisine, the comforting warmth of Canadian poutine, or the delicate flavors of Japanese sushi.

There’s a world of deliciousness waiting to be discovered!

Culinary Demonstrations

Hungry for knowledge?

The festival’s culinary demonstrations offer a unique opportunity to learn from the pros.

Watch as talented chefs whip up mouthwatering dishes right before your eyes, sharing their tips, tricks, and secrets for creating culinary magic at home.

Beverage Seminars

Raise a glass to the art of mixology!

The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival’s beverage seminars give you a chance to explore the world of wine, beer, and spirits.

Learn about the intricacies of pairing, the history of your favorite beverages, and even sample some truly exquisite libations.

Special Events and Activities

Eat to the Beat Concert Series

Dance off those delicious calories at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, a musical extravaganza featuring a diverse lineup of popular artists spanning various genres.

Groove to the tunes of your favorite bands and solo acts at the America Gardens Theatre, creating magical memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Celebrity Chef Appearances

Rub elbows with culinary royalty!

The festival often welcomes celebrity chefs, giving you a chance to see these kitchen wizards in action and even snag an autograph or two.

Keep an eye out for announcements, and don’t miss your chance to meet your foodie idols!

4. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Hear those sleigh bells jingling?

It’s time for the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays!

Fourth in our EPCOT festivals guide is the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

This yuletide celebration takes place from around Thanksgiving to just before the New Year, filling the park with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the holiday season.

Embrace the spirit of the holidays as you explore the rich traditions and festivities from cultures across the globe.

Highlights of the Festival

Holiday Storytelling

Gather ’round, my festive Disney friends, for holiday storytelling like you’ve never experienced before!

Discover heartwarming tales of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and more, as narrators from various countries share the unique customs and folklore that make this season so special.

Seasonal Food and Beverage Offerings

Indulge in the comforting flavors of the holiday season with the festival’s mouthwatering food and beverage offerings.

From savory roast turkey to decadent yule logs, each dish is crafted with love and tradition, transporting you to far-off lands as you savor every delicious bite.

Festive Entertainment

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is bursting with festive entertainment that will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree!

Enjoy dazzling musical performances, heartwarming live shows, and of course, the famous Disney character appearances, all dressed up in their holiday best.

Special Events and Activities

Candlelight Processional

Prepare to be moved by the awe-inspiring Candlelight Processional, a breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by a full choir and orchestra.

With celebrity narrators lending their voices to this cherished event, the Candlelight Processional is a holiday tradition that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling the magic of the season.

Holiday-themed Scavenger Hunts

Put on your detective cap and embark on a holiday-themed scavenger hunt, perfect for families and Disney fans of all ages.

Search for hidden holiday surprises throughout the World Showcase, solve festive riddles, and uncover the special treats that await you at the end of your journey!

What is the total number of festivals hosted at EPCOT?

Disney enthusiasts, brace yourselves! EPCOT is home to four spectacular festivals, each offering a unique and magical experience. From the arts to international cuisine, there’s a world of wonder waiting for you at every event!

When do the EPCOT festivals take place?

EPCOT festivals are sprinkled throughout the year, ensuring there’s always a touch of enchantment at the park. With each festival typically lasting a few weeks to several months, you’ll have ample time to immerse yourself in the magic!

What are the scheduled dates for the 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival?

Eager to savor the flavors of the world? While the exact dates for the 2023 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival have yet to be announced, it usually takes place from mid-July to mid-November.

When will the 2023 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival occur?

Prepare to be dazzled by a blooming wonderland! The 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is set to take place from March 1st to July 5th, 2023.

Is the Food and Wine Festival a recurring event at EPCOT?

Absolutely! The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is a beloved annual event, inviting guests to explore the diverse flavors of the world. With new dishes and experiences each year, you’ll never tire of this gastronomic extravaganza!

Is there an additional cost to attend the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival?

While the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival is included with your regular park admission, you’ll need to budget for the delicious dishes and beverages available at the Global Marketplaces.

What special activities and events can I expect at EPCOT festivals?

Each EPCOT festival offers a plethora of unique activities and events, designed to immerse you in the magic of the occasion. From live entertainment and culinary demonstrations to scavenger hunts and spectacular concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.