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Walt Disney World 2027 Spring Offers and Returning Events Guide

News By Kim Fidler September 10, 2026 Tags: Disney After Dark, Disney Offers, Festival of the Arts, Flower & Garden Festival, Walt Disney World Resort 2027 No Comments

Spring at Walt Disney World is shaping up early this year. New discounts on Disney Resorts Collection stays and vacation packages are bookable starting today, and Disney confirmed dates for two of EPCOT’s most popular festivals, plus Disney After Hours at three parks.

Here’s every date, discount, and event Disney has confirmed so far for spring 2027, all in one place.

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Returns January 15-March 1

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Presented by Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game kicks off the new year at EPCOT, and it’s running an extra week longer than in past seasons. Yay! Expect the festival’s signature mix of visual, culinary, and performing arts, along with the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series at America Gardens Theatre and special Disney Lorcana experiences woven throughout the park.

We’ve put together a full guide to the 2027 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, including what to expect from Food Studios, artists, and the Broadway lineup.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Returns March 10-May 31

Right behind it, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival blooms across World Showcase and beyond with character topiaries, seasonal gardens, and the Outdoor Kitchens guests look forward to every spring. The Garden Rocks Concert Series also returns to America Gardens Theatre with a mix of national acts and Orlando-area talent.

We’ve also built a complete guide to the 2027 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival if you want the full rundown before you go.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney After Hours Returns to Three Parks

Disney After Hours is back for 2027, giving guests extra time in the parks after regular closing with shorter lines on popular attractions. Guests get complimentary snacks and select bottled beverages with admission, plus early entry a few hours before the event officially starts. Here’s where and when it’s happening:

Magic Kingdom Park: select nights January 11-July 19, 2027, with access to attractions including TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: select nights January 16-August 25, 2027, with access to attractions including Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
EPCOT: select nights January 21-August 19, 2027, with access to attractions Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, or Shades of Green can purchase Disney After Hours tickets starting now. Tickets open up to everyone else on September 22, 2026.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Spring 2027 Savings on Rooms and Packages

Disney also rolled out several new discounts today, all bookable as of September 10, 2026. These offers carry blackout dates, length-of-stay minimums, and other eligibility rules that can be tricky to manage on your own. We always recommend booking through your favorite travel agent instead of doing everything by yourself. A good agent acts as your advocate with Disney, tracks these offers on your behalf, and guides you through the entire process, from matching the right discount to your dates to handling any changes that come up before you travel, all at no extra cost to you.

Room-and-ticket packages: save up to $250 per night on select 4-night, 4-day packages, select nights January 3-July 28, 2027
Disney Resorts Collection: save up to 25% on select rooms, select nights January 3-April 29, 2027
Disney Visa Cardmember offer: save up to 30% with special January and February weekend discounts on stays of five nights or longer, select nights January 3-April 29, 2027
Annual Passholder discount: save up to 35% on select rooms, select nights January 3-April 29, 2027

For full terms, blackout dates, and availability, head to DisneyWorld.com/Offers, or better yet, let your favorite travel agent pull those details for you and handle the booking from start to finish.

Plenty More to Plan Around This Spring

Beyond the festivals and after-hours events, spring 2027 brings the new Magic of Disney Animation experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, along with Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station and Zootopia: Better Zoogether! at Animal Kingdom. Classic favorites like the Festival of Fantasy Parade, Mad Tea Party, Slinky Dog Dash, and Frozen Ever After remain on the table too, so there’s something for every member of the family.

If you’re planning dinner around a Garden Rocks or DISNEY ON BROADWAY dining package, don’t forget those reservation windows open ahead of time and tend to fill fast. Set a MouseDining dining alert so you know the moment a table opens up at the restaurant you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I book the new spring 2027 Walt Disney World offers?

The new discounts on Disney Resorts Collection stays and vacation packages became available to book starting September 10, 2026.

What are the 2027 EPCOT festival dates?

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs January 15-March 1, 2027, and the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival follows from March 10-May 31, 2027.

When do Disney After Hours tickets go on sale to everyone?

Resort guests, along with those staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels and Shades of Green, can buy tickets now. All other guests can purchase starting September 22, 2026.

Should I book these offers myself or use a travel agent?

We recommend booking with a travel agent. These discounts come with blackout dates and specific eligibility requirements that are easy to misread on your own. Your favorite travel agent acts as your advocate, watches for better offers that release after you book, and guides you through the entire planning process from start to finish, all at no added cost.

EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival 2027: Full Guide

News By Kim Fidler September 10, 2026 Tags: Epcot, Festivals, Flower & Garden No Comments

There’s a reason spring at Walt Disney World has a signature look: EPCOT bursting into bloom. The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival turns World Showcase into a living garden every year. Disney just confirmed the 2027 dates, along with a first look at what’s coming back.

Whether you’re a festival regular or planning your first spring trip, here’s what we know so far.

What Is the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival?

The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is one of EPCOT’s four seasonal celebrations. It joins the Festival of the Arts, the Food & Wine Festival, and the Festival of the Holidays on the calendar. Each spring, EPCOT fills with elaborate character topiaries, themed gardens, and floral displays that wind through World Showcase and beyond. Add live concerts and Outdoor Kitchens with garden-inspired dishes, and you get a festival for gardeners, foodies, and Disney fans alike. Best of all, regular park admission covers all of it.

2027 Flower & Garden Festival Dates

The 2027 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs March 10-May 31, 2027. That’s an extended window, so you can catch it on a spring break trip, a summer kickoff visit, or anything in between.

Topiaries, Gardens, and Exhibits

The heart of the festival hasn’t changed: it’s still the horticultural display. You’ll find eye-catching topiaries built around favorite Disney characters, plus vibrant gardens and thoughtfully designed floral exhibits scattered throughout the park. In fact, these displays consistently rank among Walt Disney World’s most popular photo spots, so give yourself extra time for photo stops as you wander World Showcase.

Lion King Topiaries Flower & Garden EPCOT

Garden Rocks Concert Series

Live music returns to America Gardens Theatre with the Garden Rocks Concert Series. The 2027 lineup will feature a mix of chart-topping national artists and rising Orlando-area talent. Disney has not yet released the full performer list.

EPCOT park entry includes admission to Garden Rocks, and seating is first-come, first-served. Want guaranteed seating instead? Once Disney announces reservation dates, look for a Garden Rocks dining package. It pairs a meal at a select EPCOT restaurant with priority seating for the show. Since these dining packages tend to book up quickly, set a MouseDining dining alert so you know the moment reservations open.

Garden Rocks Concert Series EPCOT Flower & Garden

Outdoor Kitchens

No EPCOT festival is complete without its food kiosks, and the Outdoor Kitchens are the main event for Flower & Garden foodies. Expect a rotating lineup of fresh, spring-inspired dishes and drinks from stands throughout the park, with a mix of returning favorites and new additions. Disney has not yet released the full Outdoor Kitchens menu. We’ll update this article with the lineup once Disney releases it, so check back closer to the festival.

Are There Extra Activities for Kids and Families?

Yes. Past festivals have included hands-on activities and family scavenger hunts around the gardens and topiaries. Disney has also indicated more family-friendly adventures are coming for 2027. These extras are typically free with park admission, and they’re a great way to slow down and explore World Showcase at a kid-friendly pace.

What’s Included with Park Admission?

You don’t need a separate festival ticket. Standard EPCOT park admission gets you into the festival, the topiary displays, the gardens, and Garden Rocks concerts. The only things that cost extra are individual Outdoor Kitchens items, festival merchandise, and add-ons like guaranteed concert seating through a dining package.

Our take: This is one of the more relaxed EPCOT festivals to visit. There’s no single ticketed event to build your day around, and the gardens are stunning for photos no matter how crowded it gets. Plus, the Outdoor Kitchens make it easy to graze your way around World Showcase.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Flower & Garden Festival

Arrive early. The topiaries and gardens photograph best in soft morning light. You’ll also beat the midday crowds around World Showcase’s most popular displays.
Grab an Outdoor Kitchens passport if one is offered. Past festivals have released a paper or digital passport for tracking which kiosks you’ve tried. That makes it easier to plan a food crawl around the World Showcase Lagoon.
Book Garden Rocks dining packages as soon as they open. Guaranteed seating is worth it for headliner acts, and reservations move fast. A MouseDining alert can help you catch the booking window.
Pack for the heat. The festival runs into late May, so later dates can bring Florida’s early summer humidity. Plan for sun protection and hydration breaks between pavilions.

Brief History of the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

The festival dates back to 1994, when it debuted as a modest seasonal display. Better Homes & Gardens sponsored that first event, which ran for 38 days and leaned heavily on gardening workshops and classes. Character topiaries and Outdoor Kitchens came later. The following year, Disney introduced the EPCOT Garden Railway, a miniature train display in the Germany pavilion that remains a festival staple.

The festival grew steadily over the following decades. Disney added more elaborate topiaries, expanded gardens, and new dining experiences along the way. Then, in 2015, Disney introduced the Garden Rocks Concert Series, replacing the earlier Flower Power Concert Series, alongside a wave of new character topiaries. Today, the festival stands as one of EPCOT’s four annual celebrations and one of Walt Disney World’s most popular spring traditions.

Stay Updated with MouseDining

The 2027 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival opens March 10. Details on Outdoor Kitchens menus, the Garden Rocks lineup, and dining packages will continue to roll out in the months ahead. Set a MouseDining dining alert so you never miss a reservation window. Then check back with us as Disney releases more festival details.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2027 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival?

The festival runs March 10-May 31, 2027.

Do I need a special ticket for the Flower & Garden Festival?

No. Standard EPCOT park admission includes access to the festival, the gardens, the topiaries, and Garden Rocks concerts. Only individual food items, merchandise, and optional dining packages cost extra.

Is the Garden Rocks Concert Series free?

Yes, EPCOT park entry includes admission to Garden Rocks. Seating is first-come, first-served, though guests can book a dining package for guaranteed seating once reservations open.

What can I eat at the Flower & Garden Festival?

The festival’s Outdoor Kitchens serve fresh, spring-inspired dishes and drinks at stands throughout the park. Disney has not yet released the full 2027 menu. We’ll update this article with the lineup once Disney releases it, so check back closer to the festival.

EPCOT Festival of the Arts 2027: Dates, Details & Full Guide

General By Kim Fidler September 10, 2026 Tags: Disney Festivals, EPCOT Festival of the Arts No Comments

EPCOT kicks off the new year with color, imagination, and a whole lot of Broadway. The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is back for 2027. Disney has confirmed the dates, plus a first look at what’s coming back to the park’s youngest seasonal celebration.

Here’s what we know so far, so you can start planning your winter trip.

What Is the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is the youngest of EPCOT’s four seasonal festivals. It joins the Flower & Garden Festival, the Food & Wine Festival, and the Festival of the Holidays on the calendar. Disney calls it a living gallery, and it blends visual, culinary, and performing arts throughout the park. Think interactive photo ops, chalk art, paint-by-number murals, and Food Studios that turn art into edible creations. All of it is included with regular EPCOT admission.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

2027 Festival of the Arts Dates

The 2027 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs January 15-March 1, 2027. That’s an extra week longer than in recent years, so you’ll have more room to fit it into a winter trip.

DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series

America Gardens Theatre once again hosts the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series. Broadway performers come to EPCOT to sing the iconic songs they helped make famous on stage. A new pair of performers takes over every two weeks, so the lineup keeps changing throughout the run. Disney hasn’t revealed the full list of 2027 performers yet.

Admission to the concerts is included with EPCOT park entry, and seating is first-come, first-served, with shows running several times each evening. Want guaranteed seating instead? Look for a dining package once reservation dates go on sale, which pairs a meal at a select EPCOT restaurant with priority seating. Those packages tend to book quickly, so set a MouseDining dining alert and you’ll know the moment reservations open.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Food Studios

The Food Studios are where the festival’s culinary side really shines, blending inventive flavors with artistic presentation. For 2027, Disney has confirmed more than 20 Food Studios spread throughout the park. Menus haven’t been released yet. We’ll update this article with the lineup once it’s released, so check back closer to the festival. In the meantime, use the My Disney Experience app for current offerings and prices once it opens.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Artists and Art Galleries

Beyond the food and music, the festival is really about watching art happen in real time. Visit the Chalk Art Galleries and you can watch artists paint Disney characters in a matter of minutes. Live music from festival musicians fills the park too. Names, dates, and locations for visiting artists usually land closer to the event, so check DisneyWorld.com as the festival approaches.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

What Else Is There to Do at the Festival?

Returning favorites include Animation Academy, where you learn to draw beloved Disney characters step by step. There’s also the Expression Section, a giant paint-by-number mural guests help complete together. Artful Photo Ops are scattered throughout the park, and exclusive festival merchandise rounds out the experience for art lovers who want to take a piece of the festival home.

Disney Lorcana at the Festival

Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game returns as the festival’s presenting sponsor for 2027. Illumineers will find a few exclusive extras woven into the event, including festival-only promo items and gifts with purchase. Fan-favorite experiences are back too, like the Ink & Find Scavenger Hunt, the Collection Quest, and the Illumineer’s Lounge. It’s a perfect side quest for card game fans.

Do I Need a Separate Ticket for the Festival of the Arts?

No. Standard EPCOT park admission covers festival access, including the galleries, murals, photo ops, and Broadway concerts. Extra costs are limited to individual Food Studios items, festival merchandise, optional workshops, and dining packages for guaranteed concert seating.

Our take: Festival of the Arts is a great pick if you want a slower-paced EPCOT visit without one headline event dominating the day. The chalk art, the mural, and the rotating Broadway lineup give you plenty to fill an afternoon without sprinting between attractions. That extra week Disney added for 2027 also gives you more flexibility to fit it into a January or February trip.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Festival of the Arts

Check the Broadway lineup before you book. Performers rotate every two weeks, so confirm who’s on stage during your visit if seeing a specific artist matters to you.
Try the Expression Section mural early in the festival. The best sections fill in fast as the weeks go on, so an early visit means more open space to contribute.
Budget time for Animation Academy. It’s a free, hands-on activity that often gets overlooked next to the food and concerts, but it’s a highlight for a lot of families.
Book Broadway dining packages as soon as they open. Guaranteed seating is worth it if there’s a performer you don’t want to miss. A MouseDining alert can help you catch the reservation window.
If you’re into Disney Lorcana, swing by the Illumineer’s Lounge and Collection Quest early in your visit. Those festival-exclusive experiences tend to draw a dedicated crowd.

Brief History of the EPCOT Festival of the Arts

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts debuted in 2017, making it the newest of EPCOT’s four seasonal festivals. The idea was simple: bring visual, culinary, and performing arts together under one celebration, the same way Disney had already done with Food & Wine and later with Flower & Gardens. Since then, the festival has grown steadily. It now includes an expanding roster of Food Studios and a rotating cast of visiting artists and Broadway performers, with a lineup that stays fresh every two weeks.

Stay Updated with Mouse Dining

The 2027 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts opens January 15. Disney will keep releasing details on Food Studios menus, the Broadway performer lineup, and dining packages in the weeks ahead. Set a MouseDining dining alert so you’re first in line when reservations open, and check back with us as more festival news comes in.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2027 EPCOT Festival of the Arts?

The festival runs January 15-March 1, 2027.

Do I need a special ticket for the Festival of the Arts?

No. Standard EPCOT park admission includes festival access, the art galleries, the mural, and the Broadway concerts. Only individual food items, merchandise, and optional dining packages cost extra.

Is the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series free?

Yes, admission is included with EPCOT park entry. Seating is first-come, first-served, though guests can book a dining package for guaranteed seating once reservations open.

How many Food Studios will be at the 2027 festival?

Disney has confirmed more than 20 Food Studios will be located throughout the park for the 2027 festival.

EPCOT Candlelight Processional 2026: Narrators, Dates, and Dining Packages

General By Kim Fidler September 10, 2026 Tags: Candlelight Processional, Dining packages, Epcot, Holidays, walt disney world No Comments

Disney just released the celebrity narrator lineup for the 2026 Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, and it’s a good one. Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, and Lacey Chabert are all stepping up to the podium for the first time, and they’re joining a roster of returning favorites like Whoopi Goldberg, Gary Sinise, and Neil Patrick Harris.

So if you’re mapping out a holiday trip to Walt Disney World this year, here’s everything that’s been confirmed so far, plus what you need to know about snagging a seat.

What Is the Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional is EPCOT’s retelling of the Christmas story, and it’s one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World. During each performance, a 51-piece orchestra pairs with the Voices of Liberty and a massed choir of more than 150 Disney Cast Members and community singers. Meanwhile, a celebrity narrator reads the story aloud as the choir builds into the shape of a giant, glowing “living Christmas tree” on stage.

The show runs during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. Because the cast rotates throughout the run, many guests end up planning their whole trip around catching a specific narrator.

2026 Candlelight Processional Schedule

The Candlelight Processional runs alongside the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, which takes place November 27-December 30, 2026. Each night, performances happen three times: 4:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.

Below is the narrator lineup released so far. However, two dates are still listed as To Be Announced, so this schedule isn’t fully locked in yet.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Of the group, Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, and Lacey Chabert are the three brand-new narrators for 2026. Everyone else on the list has narrated the Candlelight Processional before, so if you loved Neil Patrick Harris or Gary Sinise in past years, you’ll get another chance to see them this December. That said, keep in mind that Disney lists all entertainment and narrator dates as subject to change without notice, so it’s worth double-checking closer to your trip, especially around those two open dates.

Is the Candlelight Processional Free to Watch?

Yes. The Candlelight Processional is included with standard EPCOT admission at no extra cost. However, seating is first-come, first-served, and it fills up fast, particularly for the more popular narrators. As a result, guests often line up well over an hour ahead of showtime just to find a spot in the standby line.

How Do I Get a Guaranteed Seat?

The only way to lock in a seat ahead of time is to book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. Once you dine at a participating EPCOT restaurant before the show, you’ll receive a reserved seating badge for your chosen performance time. So while your seat is guaranteed, Disney still recommends arriving early for the best view within your reserved section.

When Can I Book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages open for booking on October 14, 2026. Because this event is so popular, packages tend to book up quickly once they go live, so it helps to have your preferred restaurant and showtime ready ahead of time.

Which Restaurants Offer Candlelight Processional Dining Packages?

In total, Disney has confirmed 16 participating locations for 2026, including Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, which returns to the lineup after a two-year hiatus. Here’s the full list:

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall Norway Pavilion
Biergarten Restaurant Germany Pavilion
Chefs de France France Pavilion
Coral Reef Restaurant The Seas Pavilion
Garden Grill Restaurant The Land Pavilion, breakfast, lunch, and dinner
La Crêperie de Paris France Pavilion
La Hacienda de San Angel Mexico Pavilion
Le Cellier Steakhouse Canada Pavilion
Nine Dragons Restaurant China Pavilion
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue American Adventure Pavilion, same-day packages only
Rose & Crown Dining Room United Kingdom Pavilion
Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya Japan Pavilion
Spice Road Table Morocco Pavilion
Teppan Edo Japan Pavilion
Tutto Italia Ristorante Italy Pavilion
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria Italy Pavilion

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Candlelight Processional Dining Package Prices

Most packages include an entree and dessert, or a full buffet where available, along with a beverage. However, Spice Road Table works a little differently, offering two small plates, a shared tagine, and a shared dessert platter instead of a standard entree. Because packages are sold per person, you’ll need a credit card to hold the reservation. The prices below are per person and exclude tax and gratuity.

Restaurant	Adult (10+)	Child (3-9)	Dining Plan
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall	$87	$59	2 Table-Service Meals
Biergarten Restaurant	$75	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Chefs de France	$89	$37	1 Table-Service Meal
Coral Reef Restaurant	$82	$34	1 Table-Service Meal
Garden Grill Restaurant (breakfast)	$73	$46	1 Table-Service Meal
Garden Grill Restaurant (lunch/dinner)	$86	$55	1 Table-Service Meal
La Crêperie de Paris	$59	$31	1 Table-Service Meal
La Hacienda de San Angel	$86	$37	1 Table-Service Meal
Le Cellier Steakhouse	$109	$44	2 Table-Service Meals
Nine Dragons Restaurant	$70	$30	1 Table-Service Meal
Regal Eagle Smokehouse (same-day only)	$43	$26	Not Eligible
Rose & Crown Dining Room	$68	$31	1 Table-Service Meal
Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya	$85	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Spice Road Table	$63	$26	1 Table-Service Meal
Teppan Edo	$89	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Tutto Italia Ristorante	$85	$36	1 Table-Service Meal
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria	$71	$33	1 Table-Service Meal

How the 2026 Prices Compare

Overall, prices are up across the board from 2025, though the increases are generally in line with menu inflation rather than a dramatic jump. Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall carry the highest adult prices, and as a result, they’re also the only two locations that require two table-service credits on the Disney Dining Plan instead of one. Meanwhile, Regal Eagle Smokehouse has the lowest price of the group, but it doesn’t qualify for the Dining Plan at all. Still, because it’s the only same-day option, you can book it the day of your visit without a standing reservation.

Is a Candlelight Processional Dining Package Worth It?

Our take: if there’s a specific narrator on your must-see list, especially one of this year’s new additions, a dining package is worth the splurge. Standby seating can work out fine on a quieter weeknight, but for names like Jason Kelce or Neil Patrick Harris, expect the standby line to move fast and fill early. Biergarten is our favorite pick for the combination of value and holiday atmosphere, while Spice Road Table is a smart budget-friendly alternative. Since you’re pairing the show with a meal you’re already planning to eat, choosing a restaurant you’d pick anyway softens the extra cost and takes the guesswork out of your evening.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Candlelight Processional

1. Pick your narrator first, then build your night around them. If a specific voice matters to you, check the schedule before you book flights or park days, not after.

2. Book your dining package the moment reservations open. Since October 14 tends to be a busy booking day, the most convenient restaurants and showtimes go quickly.

3. Arrive early even with a guaranteed seat. A badge secures your spot in the theater, not your specific view, so getting there ahead of time still pays off.

4. Bring layers. Late November and December evenings in Central Florida can turn chilly, and because this is an outdoor show, there’s no indoor backup.

5. Consider a weeknight if you’re going standby. Otherwise, weekend crowds and headline narrators combine to make lines especially long on Fridays and Saturdays.

Brief History of the Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional tradition at Walt Disney World dates back to 1971, the same year the resort opened. It later moved to EPCOT’s America Gardens Theatre, and as a result, 2026 marks its 32nd year at that park specifically, alongside its 55th year overall at Walt Disney World Resort. Over more than five decades, the show has featured narrators ranging from Disney legends to Oscar winners, NFL stars, and beloved television hosts, and all of them have read the same timeless story to the sound of a live orchestra and choir.

Stay Updated with Mouse Dining

Because narrator dates can shift, dining packages can sell out, and Disney still has two slots left to announce for the 2026 Candlelight Processional, it helps to have a reliable way to track it all. So if you want to stay on top of every update as it happens, along with alerts for hard-to-get EPCOT dining reservations, set up your free MouseDining dining alerts at mousedining.com.

Whichever narrator you catch, the Candlelight Processional remains one of the most moving traditions Walt Disney World has to offer. So mark your calendar for November 27-December 30, 2026, and start planning your EPCOT holiday evening now.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional runs during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, from November 27 through December 30, 2026, with three showtimes each night.

Who are the new narrators for 2026?

Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, and Lacey Chabert are all making their Candlelight Processional narrator debuts this year.

Do I need a reservation to see the Candlelight Processional?

No, since standby seating is free with EPCOT admission. That said, a dining package is the only way to guarantee a seat.

How much does a Candlelight Processional Dining Package cost?

Prices for 2026 range from $43 per adult at Regal Eagle Smokehouse to $109 per adult at Le Cellier Steakhouse, and most restaurants fall somewhere in the $60 to $90 range. Because child pricing applies to ages 3 to 9, and all prices exclude tax and gratuity, it’s worth budgeting a little extra on top.

What’s included in a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Most packages include a meal, typically an entree and dessert, or a full buffet where available, along with a beverage, plus a guaranteed seat at one of the same-day Candlelight Processional performances. However, Spice Road Table is the exception, since it offers two small plates and a shared dessert instead of a standard entree.

Can I use the Disney Dining Plan for a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Yes, at most locations. Nearly every restaurant on the list accepts one table-service credit, while Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall require two instead. Regal Eagle Smokehouse, on the other hand, isn’t eligible for the Dining Plan at all.

Is there a same-day Candlelight Processional Dining Package option?

Yes. Regal Eagle Smokehouse is the only restaurant that offers a same-day package, so it’s a good backup option if you didn’t plan ahead or the other restaurants are already booked for your preferred showtime.

Which restaurant is the best value for a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Biergarten Restaurant offers a strong mix of price and holiday atmosphere thanks to its buffet-style German fare, while Spice Road Table is one of the more affordable options if you’re watching your budget. On the other hand, Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall sit at the higher end, but since both use two Dining Plan credits, they can be a better fit if you’re already on the plan.

How long is the Candlelight Processional?

The performance runs about 30 minutes. Even so, guests should plan extra time for arrival and seating, especially if they’re waiting in the standby line.

Magic of Disney Animation is NOW OPEN at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

News By Kim Fidler September 9, 2026 Tags: Animation Building, Animation Courtyard, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Drawn to Wonderland, Magic of Disney Animation, Off the Page, Olaf Draws, Once Upon a Studio Theater No Comments

The Magic of Disney Animation opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This brand-new collection of experiences sits at the heart of the reimagined Animation Courtyard, and it revives a beloved name that left the park more than a decade ago. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know, including new opening-day extras like a Baymax Sipper and a fresh merchandise line. You will also see how the new space compares to the Disney Animation Building out west at Disney California Adventure Park.

The Magic of Disney Animation Now Open

The Magic of Disney Animation anchors the newly reimagined Animation Courtyard, now presented as The Walt Disney Studios. Disney drew the whole area from the real Walt Disney Animation Studios lot in Burbank, California. As a result, you get a relaxed, park-like courtyard dotted with character surprises, lush trees, and playful details like Pluto’s Corner. The courtyard itself opened first, back on May 26, 2026, alongside the new Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! show. Now that it’s open (as of September 14, 2026), the main attraction inside completes the picture.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

At the center sits a building modeled after the iconic Roy E. Disney Animation Building. Fittingly, Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat perches right on top, exactly as it does on the real building in California. The whole experience takes its cue from the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio, which imagined classic Disney characters stepping off the screen and into the studio lot. Step inside, and you explore playful takes on the studio’s many departments, with favorite characters bringing each one to life.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Inside the Reimagined Animation Courtyard

The Magic of Disney Animation is not a single ride. Instead, it bundles several distinct experiences under one roof. Here is everything you’ll find inside.

Drawn to Wonderland

First up, younger guests get their own immersive indoor playground. Disney based Drawn to Wonderland on the original Alice in Wonderland concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair. Consequently, the space bursts with bold colors and whimsical shapes. Little ones can climb and explore the Mad Tea Party, the Mad Hatter’s house, the Queen of Hearts’ rose garden, and the Cheshire Cat’s Tulgey Wood. It doubles as a fun place for families to recharge while staying fully inside the story.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Off the Page!

Next, Off the Page! turns character meet-and-greets into a tour of the animation process. Each area represents a different studio department, and a familiar face waits in each one. During your visit, you may spot:

Mulan in Story
Rapunzel in Layout
Chip ‘n’ Dale in Hand-Drawn Animation
Donald and Daisy in Computer Animation
Goofy in Lighting
Stitch in Effects

Because each backdrop reflects a real stage of animation, the photo opportunities double as a lesson in how a film comes together.

Olaf Draws!

Then there is the drawing class, reimagined. In Olaf Draws!, everyone’s favorite snowman hosts the fun as a brand-new Audio-Animatronics figure. Rather than a live artist, Olaf guides you through the steps while recorded tips and stories from real Disney Animation artists play along. You may learn to sketch Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Olaf, Ursula, or the Zootopia duo Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Josh Gad, the voice of Olaf, even recorded original dialogue for the experience. An Olaf Draws! pin ($14.99) is also part of the new merchandise collection celebrating the opening.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Once Upon A Studio Theater and the Enchanted Art Gallery

Finally, a dedicated theater screens the short that started it all. Inside the Once Upon A Studio Theater, enhanced in-theater effects add an extra layer of magic, and characters may pop up within the artwork along the walls. Nearby, an enchanted art gallery looks like a traditional gallery at first. However, with a little pixie dust, your favorite characters spring to life in all-new animations created just for this space.

A Familiar Name Returns to Hollywood Studios

Longtime fans will recognize the title. The original Magic of Disney Animation welcomed guests for more than 25 years, running from 1989 – 2015 before it closed. This 2026 version is a completely different experience. Even so, it continues the same tradition of celebrating the artists and creativity behind Disney Animation. Notably, the new attraction takes over the space that most recently housed Star Wars: Launch Bay, so the footprint may feel familiar even though everything inside is new.

How It Compares to the Disney Animation Building at Disney California Adventure Park

If you have visited Disney California Adventure Park, this concept may ring a bell. Over in Hollywood Land, the Disney Animation Building has celebrated the craft since the park opened in 2001. Both spaces honor the art of animation, yet they take clearly different approaches. Here is how they stack up.

What the Two Share

At their core, both attractions invite you to step behind the scenes of Disney Animation. Additionally, each one offers a hands-on drawing lesson, a gallery-style celebration of Disney artwork, and character meet opportunities. Just as importantly, both give families a cool, air-conditioned place to slow down in the middle of a busy park day.

Where They Differ

Despite those similarities, the two buildings feel distinct. The differences come down to theme, technology, and target audience:

Theme and era: California’s building nods to 1930s Golden Age Hollywood, with a facade inspired by the historic Max Factor building. In contrast, Hollywood Studios recreates the modern Burbank animation campus and tops it with the Sorcerer Hat.
Drawing classes: At Disney California Adventure Park, a live Disney artist teaches the Animation Academy in person, and the character changes throughout the day. At Hollywood Studios, the Audio-Animatronics Olaf hosts instead, paired with recorded artist guidance.
Just for little ones: Hollywood Studios adds Drawn to Wonderland, a dedicated indoor playground. California’s building has no comparable play area.
Interactive walkthroughs: California offers the Sorcerer’s Workshop, where you explore the Magic Mirror Realm, Beast’s Library, and Ursula’s Grotto, plus zoetropes that spin still drawings into motion. Hollywood Studios counters with its enchanted art gallery and the Once Upon A Studio Theater.
Live shows: Turtle Talk with Crush remains a signature draw at Disney California Adventure Park. Hollywood Studios does not include that show, though the neighboring courtyard hosts Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! But don’t worry, you can find Turtle Talk with Crush in EPCOT!

In short, the California version leans nostalgic and exploratory, while the Hollywood Studios version leans modern and family-forward. Ultimately, fans of one will likely enjoy the other, since both spring from the same love of the animation process.

Planning Your Visit

The Magic of Disney Animation is included with your Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission, so you will not need a separate ticket. Hours run 9am – 9pm through September 27, then shift to 10am – 6pm starting September 28. Check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes and character details, since those can shift.

Opening day drew roughly 60 characters for a celebration at the courtyard, and a new Baymax Sipper ($19.49, limit two) debuted at the Animation Courtyard snack carts, a lemonade-pineapple-watermelon drink called Ani-Made. A new Walt Disney Studios merchandise collection, including limited-edition pins, is also available at the Studio Store.

If you plan to build a full day around the reveal, consider pairing it with a sit-down meal at the park. Popular tables like The Hollywood Brown Derby and Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater book up fast, especially around a headline opening. To grab a hard-to-find reservation, set your MouseDining dining alerts and let us watch for openings while you plan the rest of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did The Magic of Disney Animation open?

The Magic of Disney Animation opened on September 14, 2026 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Where is The Magic of Disney Animation located?

You will find it in the reimagined Animation Courtyard, now presented as The Walt Disney Studios. The building sits at the center of the courtyard, in the space that previously held Star Wars: Launch Bay.

What experiences are inside The Magic of Disney Animation?

The attraction includes Drawn to Wonderland, an indoor playground for young guests; Off the Page!, a series of character meets themed to animation departments; Olaf Draws!, a drawing class hosted by an Audio-Animatronics Olaf; the Once Upon A Studio Theater; and an enchanted art gallery.

Do you need an extra ticket or reservation?

No. The Magic of Disney Animation is included with regular park admission. For show times and any day-of details, check the My Disney Experience app.

Is Olaf Draws! a real drawing class?

Yes. Olaf appears as a new Audio-Animatronics figure and walks you through drawing a Disney character, supported by recorded tips from real Disney Animation artists.

How is it different from the Disney Animation Building at Disney California Adventure Park?

Both celebrate the animation process, yet they differ in theme and format. California’s building evokes 1930s Hollywood and features a live-artist Animation Academy, the Sorcerer’s Workshop, and Turtle Talk with Crush. Hollywood Studios recreates the modern Burbank studio campus and adds a children’s playground, an Olaf-hosted drawing class, a dedicated theater, and an enchanted gallery.

What happened to the original Magic of Disney Animation?

The original attraction operated from 1989 – 2015 and welcomed guests for more than 25 years before it closed. The 2026 version shares the name but offers an entirely new set of experiences.

Nearly 50 New Treats and Drinks Coming to Disney World This Fall

Foodie Guide By Kim Fidler September 4, 2026 Tags: breakfast, churros, cocktails, drinks, frozen slushes No Comments

Walt Disney World Resort is rolling out nearly 50 new snacks and sips this fall, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re after a new spin on the classic Mickey waffle, a churro mashup, or a specialty cocktail, you’ll find new options spread across the theme parks, water parks, resorts, and Disney Springs.

Because the full lineup covers so much ground, we’ve grouped everything below by category so you can find what you want and exactly where to get it.

Pancakes and Waffles

We didn’t know it was possible, but breakfast just got way more fun at Walt Disney World. Each new breakfast flavor comes in both a Mickey-shaped waffle and a pancake version, served with bacon and sausage, at the same resort location.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Birthday Cake: birthday cake custard, cake crumbles, and rainbow sprinkles. Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Strawberry: creamy vanilla custard. Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, and Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort.
Caramel-Banana: topped with streusel. End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort.
Fruit Cereal: creamy vanilla custard with fruit cereal. Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort.
Candy Bar: cookie bar pieces, caramel, and chocolate sauce. World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Churros

Churros are getting several new twists this fall, including a couple of mashups with other Disney classics.

Bavarian Cream-Filled Churros: filled with Bavarian cream and topped with chocolate sauce. Anaheim Produce at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
DOLE Whip Pineapple with Chili-Lime and Churro Sundae: DOLE Whip Pineapple layered with chili-lime marinated DOLE pineapple, coconut, and a churro half. Warung Outpost at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park; coming to Happy Landings at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park in 2027.
Cookie Butter Mini Churros: topped with cookie butter cream and crushed cookies. Ice Cold Hydraulics at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Maple Bacon Churro Fries: churro fries with maple bacon jam, crispy crepe wafers, and maple floss. Avalunch at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park.
Churro Strawberry Shortcake Sundae: churro loops, strawberry soft serve, strawberry compote, whipped cream, and cake crumble. Sunshine Seasons at EPCOT.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Chocolate-Filled Mini Churros. Market at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Churro Overdrive: cookies and cream mini churros with blue sugar and marshmallow. Energy Bytes at Magic Kingdom Park.
Cookies and Cream Mini Churros. Popcorn and Snacks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Churro-misu Cold Brew: Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee topped with a house-made tiramisu cold foam, served with a churro. Isle of Java at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Family Churros: 21 bite-size churros with sprinkles, chocolate, and caramel dipping sauces. Mission Space Cart at EPCOT.

Frozen Slushes

Non-Alcoholic

Key Lime Dream: Minute Maid Limeade blended with key lime, topped with sweet cream and graham cracker crumbs. Also available spiked at select locations. Studio Main Entrance Coffee at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Pinocchio Village Haus at Magic Kingdom Park, Regal Eagle Smokehouse Bar at EPCOT, and Beaches Pool Bar & Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Golden Frozen Flame: Minute Maid Premium Lemonade with honey, chile, and passion fruit, orange, and guava flavors. Also available spiked. Snack Cart near Hollywood Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Chef Mwanga’s at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Tambu Lounge at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort; coming to Disney Springs and Leaning Palms at Typhoon Lagoon in 2027.
Peaches and Cream: Minute Maid Peach Purée with lemon, vanilla, and oat milk, topped with sweet cream cold foam. Also available spiked at select locations. Backlot Express and Snack Cart near Creations Shop at Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, The Friar’s Nook at Magic Kingdom, Flame Tree Barbecue at Animal Kingdom, The Daily Poutine and Marketplace Snacks at Disney Springs, and Lottawatta Lodge at Blizzard Beach.
Mango Heat Wave: frozen mango blended with chili-lime sauce. A tequila-spiked version is available at select locations. B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. at Disney Springs, Energy Bytes at Magic Kingdom, and The Feeding Ground at Animal Kingdom.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

With Alcohol

Old Fashioned Freeze: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, a citrus and tea slush, and angostura bitters. Anaheim Produce at Hollywood Studios, Regal Eagle Smokehouse Bar at EPCOT, Flame Tree Barbecue at Animal Kingdom, and Courtyard Pool Bar at Disney’s Grand Floridian.
Frozen Key Lime Slush: Tito’s Handmade Vodka with Minute Maid Limeade, key lime, and cream. Anaheim Produce at Hollywood Studios.
Blackberry Cobbler: Jack Daniel’s Blackberry Whiskey with blackberry and peach purée and lemon, topped with sweet cream and Biscoff cookie crumble. Backlot Express at Hollywood Studios, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. at Disney Springs, and Pizzafari at Animal Kingdom.
Frozen Marrakech Mango Margarita: Sango African Agave Spirit and Cointreau with Minute Maid Mango Smoothie Mix and lime. Oasis Sweets & Sips at EPCOT.
Prickly Pear Margarita: LALO Blanco Tequila and Cointreau with lime juice, prickly pear, and agave. Chef Mwanga’s at Animal Kingdom, Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs, and The Drop Off Pool Bar at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.

Frozen Shakes

Milkshakes

S’mores Gelato Milkshake: Belgian chocolate and French vanilla gelato with toasted marshmallow, chocolate bar, and graham cracker. Connections Eatery at EPCOT.
Steamboat Willie Milkshake: blended cookies ‘n cream ice cream topped with whipped cream, cookies and cream churros, a sugar cookie, and a cherry. The Plaza Restaurant at Magic Kingdom.
Maple-Pecan Gelato Milkshake: French vanilla gelato with maple syrup, caramel, and pecans. Also available spiked. Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

With Alcohol

Espresso Martini Gelato Milkshake: Absolut Vodka and Mozart Chocolate Liqueur with espresso and French vanilla gelato, topped with sweet cream. Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
Espresso Martini Milkshake: Absolut Vodka and Mozart Chocolate Liqueur with espresso and hand-scooped vanilla ice cream, topped with sweet cream. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Specialty Beverages and Cocktails

Non-Alcoholic

Enchanted Grove Lime Splash: Minute Maid Limeade with cucumber and mint. Spice Road Table and Bar and Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT, Tusker House Restaurant at Animal Kingdom, and Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar and Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs.
Enchanting Ember Lemonade: Minute Maid Premium Lemonade with strawberry and hot honey. Tusker House Restaurant at Animal Kingdom and Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs.
Royal Berry Spritzer: blueberry, blackberry, and pomegranate with cold-pressed lime juice, topped with Topo Chico Blueberry & Hibiscus Sparkling Water. Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom and Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT.

Cocktails

Gold Standard Margarita: Mijenta Reposado Tequila with Grand Marnier Liqueur, lime juice, and agave nectar. The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge at Hollywood Studios and Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs.
Cucumber Margarita: 1800 Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, cucumber, agave, and lime. Disney Springs outdoor bars.
Citrus Old Fashioned: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon, Munyon’s Paw Paw Citrus Liqueur, orange bitters, demerara, and cherry. Disney Springs outdoor bars.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Spicy Margarita: Ghost Blanco Tequila with spicy agave nectar syrup and fresh lime juice, rimmed with chili-lime and pepper salt. Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom, Tusker House Restaurant at Animal Kingdom, and Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs.
Dragon Fruit Margarita: LALO Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, and dragon fruit purée. Dockside Margaritas at Disney Springs.
Rosé Spritz: strawberry and rosé spritz with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur, and House of Brown Rosé. Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT.
Scotch & Honey: Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch with lemon, honey, and ginger, topped with a float of Islay Scotch. Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT.
Berry Proper: Fords Gin, Combier Crème de Mûre Liqueur, lemon, and blackberry. Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT.
Dublin After Dark: Grey Goose Vodka, Mr. Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, and Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee, topped with a float of Guinness Draught. Rose & Crown Dining Room and Pub at EPCOT.

When Do These New Treats and Drinks Arrive?

Disney describes the lineup as a fall rollout, so most items should be available now or very soon. Two locations, Happy Landings at Typhoon Lagoon and an outdoor vending spot at Disney Springs, aren’t opening the new items until 2027.

Do I Need a Reservation to Try These?

Most of these treats and drinks come from quick-service counters and snack carts, so you can walk right up. A few, though, live at table-service restaurants and lounges that do take reservations, including Cinderella’s Royal Table, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, Whispering Canyon Cafe, and The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge. If any of those are on your list, set up MouseDining dining alerts so you don’t miss a same-day cancellation or a new booking window.

Are Any of These for Kids?

Yes. The waffles, pancakes, churros, and every drink listed as non-alcoholic are fine for guests of all ages. The cocktails and spiked slush, shake, and beverage versions are limited to guests 21 and older.

Menus and locations are always subject to change, so double-check current offerings in the My Disney Experience app before you head out. We’ll keep an eye on this lineup and update you as more of these treats make their way to the parks.

The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up Opens October 4: Full Menu

Foodie Guide By Kim Fidler September 4, 2026 Tags: Diamond Horseshoe Pop-up, Liberty Square, Magic Kingdom No Comments

Round up your crew, because a new limited-time pop-up is heading to The Diamond Horseshoe in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park, and Disney just revealed the full menu ahead of opening day.

The pop-up opens on October 4, and reservations open on September 29. That five-day gap between booking and opening means this is one to watch closely if you want a table on day one.

What Is The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up?

The Diamond Horseshoe is trading its usual offerings for a limited-time, frontier-inspired comfort food and craft cocktail menu this fall. Expect shareable small plates alongside a lineup of specialty non-alcoholic drinks, cocktails, wine, and draft beer, all themed around the saloon setting Liberty Square is known for.

The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up Menu: Small Plates

Charcuterie: cured beef, candied bacon, smoked pork, green chile cheese, smoked cheddar, and pickles
Glazed Sticky Ribs with cowboy beans and jalapeño crisps

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Queso Fundido with Barbecue Burnt Ends with warm tortilla chips

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Sweet Golden Corn Fritters with cilantro ranch dressing and red chili honey

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Chipotle Chicken Tostada with queso fresco, lime crema, and pickled cactus salsa

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mini Hot Dog Platter: wrapped in pastry and served with tortilla chips and a side of queso

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up Menu: Non-Alcoholic Specialty Beverages

Orange Cream Soda: Fanta Orange with vanilla and cream
Caramel Root Beer with Sweet Cream: Barq’s Root Beer flavored with caramel and topped with sweet cream
Enchanting Ember Lemonade: Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, strawberry, and hot honey
Enchanted Grove Lime Splash: Minute Maid Limeade, cucumber, and mint

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up Menu: Cocktails

Whinnyin’ Whiskey Lemonade: Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, Aperol liqueur, strawberry purée, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, and basil
Cactus Rose Margarita: LALO Blanco Tequila, prickly pear, lime, and agave
High Plains Huckleberry: 44° North Mountain Huckleberry Vodka, crème de cassis liqueur, lemon juice, and cranberry
Rattler Rum Punch: Bacardí Superior Rum, orange, pineapple, lime, and passion fruit, garnished with a sweet-and-spicy rim
Coal’d Fashioned: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Mr. Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, cinnamon syrup, orange bitters, and Angostura bitters
In Holiday Fashion, made with Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, rosemary syrup, cranberry, and cinnamon. (seasonal)

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Wine and Draft Beer

The wine list stays simple with one option in each category: Nino Franco Rustico Prosecco for sparkling, Fess Parker Riesling for white, and MacMurray Estate Pinot Noir for red. On draft, look for Samuel Adams Boston Lager, Yuengling Traditional Lager, and Cigar City Jai Alai IPA. As always, check the Disney app for current pricing before you order.

How to Get a Reservation

Reservations for The Diamond Horseshoe pop-up open on September 29 for the October 4 debut, and a new, limited-time concept like this one tends to book up fast once the window opens. If you don’t get a reservation that morning, set a MouseDining dining alert so you get notified the moment a table becomes available.

Disney has also confirmed one scheduling detail worth planning around: the pop-up will not be available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, but it will return during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. If you are mapping out party nights alongside regular park days, our Disney World holidays 2026 guide has the full rundown of confirmed dates for both events.

If your trip lands around the holidays, The Diamond Horseshoe is not the only Liberty Square draw worth booking early. Liberty Tree Tavern, just steps away, still serves its Thanksgiving feast. Add both to your MouseDining dining alerts so neither one slips through the cracks.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Diamond Horseshoe Pop-Up

When does The Diamond Horseshoe pop-up open?

The pop-up opens on October 4 at The Diamond Horseshoe in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park.

When can I book a reservation?

Reservations open on September 29, five days ahead of the October 4 opening.

Will The Diamond Horseshoe pop-up be open during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

No. Disney has confirmed the pop-up will not be available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Will it be open during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party?

Yes. The pop-up will be available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Where is The Diamond Horseshoe located?

The Diamond Horseshoe sits in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom Park.

Stay Updated with MouseDining

The Diamond Horseshoe pop-up opens October 4, with reservations opening September 29. Since this is a limited-time concept, do not leave your table to chance. Set your MouseDining dining alerts now so you are ready the moment booking opens, and check back here as we learn more about the full run of this pop-up.

Hurly-Burly Menu at Disney’s BoardWalk Opening October 1

Foodie Guide By Kim Fidler September 4, 2026 Tags: Disney's Boardwalk, Hurly Burly No Comments

Disney’s BoardWalk is about to get a lot livelier. Hurly-Burly, the seaside theater lounge first announced back in June, opens on October 1, and Disney just shared a full first look at the menu ahead of opening day.

We covered the original announcement in our Disney BoardWalk changes guide, back when Disney confirmed Hurly-Burly but had not released a firm date. Now that the date is locked in, here is everything on the menu, plus what to expect when you walk through the door.

What Is Hurly-Burly?

Hurly-Burly takes over a theater space at Disney’s BoardWalk, themed as though it once hosted the district’s most celebrated vaudeville performers. The new concept leans into that storyline with a turn-of-the-century, nautical theme that runs through the food, drinks, and entertainment.

During the afternoon, expect family-friendly activities such as trivia and games. Then, starting at 9 p.m., the space shifts into a 21-and-older evening scene with live music. Because the vibe changes throughout the day, it is worth checking the Disney app for the current schedule before you head over.

Hurly-Burly Menu: Small Bites

The food menu sticks to shareable, boardwalk-style plates. Here is the full lineup:

Meatballs in Tomato Gravy: veal, pork, and beef meatballs with tomato gravy, stracciatella cheese, Pecorino Romano, and toasted focaccia (a plant-based option is available upon request)
Antipasto: sliced meats, burrata, Pecorino Romano, and marinated vegetables

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mini Pretzels with Bacon-Cheese Fondue
Tomato Pie: focaccia, tomato sauce, oregano, and Pecorino Romano (a plant-based option is available upon request)
Oven-Roasted Shrimp with garlic, herbs, and sweet pepper-onion relish

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Roast Beef Sliders: shaved roast beef and horseradish-mustard sour cream on slider rolls
Theater Concessions: a trio of meatballs, a sugar cookie, and buttered popcorn
Mini Apple Cider Doughnuts with miso-caramel sauce

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Hurly-Burly Menu: Non-Alcoholic Specialty Beverages

Overture in Orange: a frozen treat made with Minute Maid Orange Juice, topped with sweet cream
Caramel Corn Cold Brew: Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee topped with caramel sweet cream and caramel popcorn, also available at the walk-up window
Cherry Marquee: Minute Maid Premium Lemonade blended with Amarena cherries and garnished with a gourmet cherry, also available at the walk-up window

Hurly-Burly Menu: Cocktails

For guests 21 and older, the cocktail list is where Hurly-Burly really leans into its throwback theme:

Mertini: Plymouth Navy Strength Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth de Chambéry, and Hella Cocktail Co. orange bitters
Overproof Amaretto Sour: Lazzaroni Amaretto Liqueur, Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon, and lemon juice
Caramel Corn Old Fashioned: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, caramel corn, and The Bitter Truth Decanter Bitters, also available at the walk-up window
Cherry-Vodka Limeade: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Amarena cherry, and cold-pressed lime juice, also available at the walk-up window
The Atlantic Review: Hangar One Mandarin Blossom Vodka, Cointreau Liqueur, Minute Maid Orange Juice, and Sprite, also available at the walk-up window
Bubble Brava!: Chinola Passion Fruit Liqueur, Italian amaro, lemon juice, and Viarae Prosecco, also available at the walk-up window
La Taquilla Picante: Ghost Blanco Tequila, lime juice, orgeat, rose water, and a spiced nutmeg rim, also available at the walk-up window
Road to Fame: Michter’s Single Barrel Rye Whiskey, Laird’s Straight Applejack Brandy, and lemon juice
Off-Book Bramble: Fords Gin, Combier Crème de Mûre Liqueur, lemon juice, and blackberry, also available at the walk-up window
Quality EntertainMint: Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva Rum, demerara, lime juice, mint, and Angostura bitters, topped with Viarae Prosecco

If you would rather sip while you stroll, several of these cocktails, along with the Caramel Corn Cold Brew and Cherry Marquee, are also poured at the Hurly-Burly walk-up window.

Wine, Beer, and Hard Seltzer

Beyond the specialty drink menu, Hurly-Burly also stocks a rotating wine list, plus beer, hard cider, and hard seltzer options that lean into the BoardWalk’s East Coast setting. The wine selection covers sparkling, rosé, white, and red pours, while the beer list mixes local-feeling favorites like Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA and Brooklyn Lager with classic domestic options and a non-alcoholic beer for guests who want to skip the alcohol without skipping the tap. For the current lineup and pricing, check the Disney app once you arrive, since draft and bottle selections can shift.

Hours, Reservations, and Getting In

Hurly-Burly does not take reservations. It runs on a walk-up basis only, so there is no need to book ahead through the Disney app or My Disney Experience for this particular spot.

That said, if Hurly-Burly is part of a bigger BoardWalk day that includes a table-service meal elsewhere in the district, that is exactly the kind of reservation worth locking down early. Set a MouseDining dining alert so you know the moment a hard-to-get BoardWalk table opens up, and let Hurly-Burly be the easy, no-reservation stop that rounds out the night.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurly-Burly

Do I need a reservation for Hurly-Burly?

No. Hurly-Burly is walk-up only, and Disney has confirmed reservations are not required or available for this location.

What are the hours at Hurly-Burly?

Hurly-Burly offers family-friendly activities like trivia and games during the afternoon. Starting at 9 p.m., the venue shifts to a 21-and-older evening scene with live music. Check the Disney app for the most current hours before you visit.

Is Hurly-Burly open to guests of all ages?

During the day, yes. In the evening, once live music begins at 9 p.m., Hurly-Burly is limited to guests 21 and older.

Where is Hurly-Burly located?

Hurly-Burly sits inside a historic theater space at Disney’s BoardWalk, the resort district along Crescent Lake next to EPCOT.

When does Hurly-Burly open?

Hurly-Burly opens on October 1.

Stay Updated with MouseDining

Hurly-Burly opens at Disney’s BoardWalk on October 1, which is coming right up. Since it runs walk-up only, you can add it to your plans without worrying about a booking window. For everything else on your BoardWalk itinerary, from a sit-down dinner to a special-occasion table, set your MouseDining dining alerts. We will keep updating this guide as Disney shares more about the BoardWalk’s newest additions.

2026 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival – Everything You Need to Know

General, News, Special Events By Kim Fidler August 24, 2026 Tags: 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine, 2026 EPCOT food booths menu, Epcot Food and Wine 2026 No Comments

Updated August 19, 2026: If you have been dreaming of sipping your way around World Showcase while live music drifts through the warm Florida evening air, the wait is almost over. The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival opens in just over a week, and we have the latest details to help you plan your visit.

First things first, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival runs August 27-November 21, 2026. That is 87 days of global flavors, live entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. The late-summer-to-pre-holiday run is the event’s signature format and is nearly identical to last year’s festival window. And best yet, the entire festival is included with your standard EPCOT park ticket.

What Is the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival?

First celebrated in 1996 as a modest 30-day event, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival has grown into one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved annual traditions. Today it transforms EPCOT into a globe-trotting culinary adventure, with Global Marketplace booths scattered throughout the park offering dishes and drinks inspired by cultures across six continents.

Whether this is your first visit or your 100th, there is always something new to discover alongside the fan-favorite dishes guests plan entire trips around. The magic here is not rides or characters. It is the cumulative experience of great food, great music, and World Showcase at its absolute best.

Mark Your Calendars

The festival runs August 27-November 21, 2026, giving you an 87-day window to plan around. The best part? No separate ticket is required. Access to every booth, every concert, all of it is covered by your standard EPCOT park admission.

Global Marketplaces: A World of Flavor Awaits

One of the best parts of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is the chance to sample dishes and drinks inspired by cuisines from around the world. For 2026, Disney has released the complete Foodie Guide, giving us a look at the food and beverage offerings coming to EPCOT throughout the festival.

The 2026 festival also celebrates its 30th anniversary, with 30 dishes returning from previous years. We’ve noted those selections below, along with the new dishes and drinks joining the festival lineup this year.

CommuniCore Hall

The Wedge Hosted by Dairy Does More

Available September 18 through November 8

Selection of Cheeses — NEW
Cheesesteak Macaroni and Cheese
Las Jaras Superbloom Rosé — NEW
Crab and Corn Macaroni and Cheese — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Cannoli Milk Shake — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
Three-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese
Wine and Cheese Pairing — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Bodegas Avancia Old Vines Godello — NEW
Wine Flight

Festival Favorites

Available starting September 9

Bo Ssam Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frozen S’mores
Beer Flight
Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse Trifle — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Schöfferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen
Parish Brewing Co. SIPS Cabernet Franc Strawberry Berliner Weisse
3 Daughters Brewing Beach Blonde Ale
Potato Pierogi — 30th Anniversary
Frozen Apple Blossom — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

World Celebration

Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey

Wing Experiments: Buffalo-Dill Pickle — NEW

Wing Experiments: Unnecessarily Spicy Yet Extremely Tasty Carolina Reaper Pepper-Curry
Civil Society Brewing Everyday I’m Waffle’n IPA — NEW
3 Daughters Brewing Peanut Butter Blondie Blonde Ale — NEW
Playalinda Brewing Co. Pumpkin Cheesecake Blonde Stout
Ciderboys Cherry Jubilee Hard Cider — NEW
Wing Experiments: Garlic-Parmesan
Sweet Chile-Lime Plant-based Chicken Strips — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Pickle Milk Shake — 30th Anniversary
Beer Flight
Ciderboys Pumpkin Spice Hard Cider
Wing Experiments: Korean Barbecue
Fried Pickle Spears
Frozen Pomegranate & Raspberry Tea

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Bold Rock Apple Crumble Hard Cider
Hard Cider Flight

Connections Eatery

BBQ Braai Chicken Pizza — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Caramel-Apple Cheesecake Baumkuchen — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frozen Waffle Old Fashioned — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Connections Café

Pistachio-Chocolate Mochi Doughnut — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Near Creations Shop

Coastal Eats

Available starting October 2

Crab Cake
Seafood Pot Pie

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Rileys Lookout Sauvignon Blanc
Boyd & Blair Pomegranate Codder

Gyozas of the Galaxy

Basil Pesto Chicken Dumplings — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris
Edamame Dumplings — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Street Corn-style Dumplings

Flavors from Fire

Rodizio-style Grilled Beef Skewer — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Left Hand Brewing Co. Sawtooth Amber Ale
1000 Stories Bourbon Barrel-Aged Zinfandel — NEW
Smoked Corned Beef
Swine Brine
Smoked Chocolate Bread Pudding — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The Fry Basket

Located near Test Track presented by General Motors

Adobo Yuca Fries
Barrel of Monks Blood Orange Bliss Sour Ale — NEW
Fry Flight

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Boyd & Blair Grapefruit Mule

World Nature

Earth Eats

Located near the Land Pavilion

Available starting October 2

Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib
Lemon-Almond-Olive Oil Cake — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Minute Maid Aguas Frescas – Strawberry Hibiscus
Harken Barrel Fermented Chardonnay

Sunshine Seasons

Mickey-shaped Celebration Macaron — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Remy Milk Shake

World Showcase

Australia

Located near Disney Traders

Grilled Bushberry-spiced Shrimp Skewer

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Bulletin Place Sauvignon Blanc
Roasted Lamb Chop — 30th Anniversary
Fowles Farm to Table Shiraz
Mixed Berry Pavlova

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Yalumba ‘The Y Series’ Viognier
Wine Flight

Mexico

Tostada de Osso Buco — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Fruta de la Pasión — NEW
Taco de Camarón — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mexican Craft Beer
Paleta de Moras — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Cherry Nostalgia — NEW

Norway

Caramel Cream and Gjetost Norwegian Brown Cheese Bolle — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

China

Dumplings Trio — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Baijiu Punch
Smoked Duck Bao Bun
Mango-Peach Bubble Tea
Frozen Strawberry-Jasmine Cocktail
Beijing Zhajiang Noodles

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Honghe Rice Lager Draft Beer — NEW
Hainan Prosperity — NEW

India

Located near China

Available starting October 2

Potato-Pea Samosas — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Chicken Tikka Masala — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mango Lassi
United Breweries Taj Mahal Premium Lager
Sula Tropicale Brut Sparkling Wine
Mango Lassi with Camikara 8-Year-Old Cask Aged Rum

Refreshment Outpost Hosted by Coca-Cola

Berbere-spiced Beef Stew
Breckenridge Brewery Palisade Peach Wheat Ale — NEW
Midnight Safari — NEW
Sweet Potato Mealie Pap — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Coppertail Brewing Co. Cherry Cola Hard Cider — NEW
South African Cream Liqueur Chocolate Mousse

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

3 Daughters Brewing Cinnamon Donut Hard Cider — NEW

The Alps

Located near Germany

Available starting October 2

Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Schlumberger Klassik Brut — NEW
Tartiflette — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Salomon Undhof Stein Kremstal DAC Riesling — NEW
Kirschwasser Torte
Loimer Lois Grüner Veltliner — NEW
Wine Flight

Germany

Wiener Schnitzel — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Weihenstephaner Festbier
Beer Flight
Schinkennudeln — 30th Anniversary
Schöfferhofer Orange Spritz Hefeweizen — NEW
Selbach-Oster Riesling
Apple Strudel — 30th Anniversary
von Trapp Brewing Oktoberfest Märzen-style Lager

Sommerfest

Zwiebelkuchen
Cinnamon Pretzel Cold Brew — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Spain

Located between Germany and Italy

Croquetas de Jamón — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Summer in Spain
Paella Caldoso — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Volver Quinta del ’67 Garnacha Tintorera
Basque Cheesecake

Italy

Stromboli — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Peroni Pilsner
Cantine Guidi Selezione Privata Luca Red Blend — NEW
Amaretto Bellini — NEW
Pollo al Marsala — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Saracco Moscato d’Asti — NEW
Italian Red Sangria
Almond Panna Cotta — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Prosecco
Villa Matilde Falanghina Campania IGP White Wine — NEW
Italian-inspired Blood Orange Margarita

American Adventure

Block & Hans

Spicy Strawberry-Mango Smoothie — NEW

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue Hosted by Coca-Cola

Blackberry Buckle — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Pumpkin Pie Milk Shake — NEW

Hops & Barley

Smoked Brisket and Cheddar Melt — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Harpoon Brewery Southie Lager — NEW
Beer Flight
Gulf Coast-style Seafood Roll — 30th Anniversary
Allagash Brewing Company Haunted House Hoppy Dark Ale — NEW
Freshly Baked Chocolate Pudding Cake

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Samuel Adams Boston Brick Red Irish Red Ale — NEW

Funnel Cake

Pumpkin Pie Funnel Cake — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Japan

Spicy Temaki Hand Roll — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mango-Apple Fruit Pearl — NEW
Sapporo Reserve
Beef Wagyu Temaki Hand Roll — NEW
Mango-Apple Fruit Pearl with wasabi potato chips — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Teriyaki Chicken Bun
Sapporo Reserve
Autumn Breeze — NEW
Kirinzan Lemonade Sake — NEW

Greece

Located between Japan and Morocco

Chicken Souvlaki Gyro — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mylonas Winery Assyrtiko Dry White
Zoe Rosé
Spanakopita
Greek Melon Limeade

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Griddled Cheese
Kir-Yianni Naoussa Xinomavro Dry Red
Wine Flight

Morocco

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina

Chermoula Chicken Hummus Bowl — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Plant-based Falafel Wrap
Keel Farms Golden Apple Chai Hard Cider
Spiced Flank Steak Hummus Bowl — NEW
Chocolate-Pistachio Cookie — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Carib Brewery Honey & Fig Dream Hard Cider — NEW
Hard Cider Flight
Ras el Hanout Cauliflower Bowl — 30th Anniversary
Fig Cocktail
Keel Farms Goji Berry Citrus Hard Cider — NEW

Belgium

Belgian Waffle — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Brouwerij Verhaeghe Duchesse Red Sweet & Tart Cherry Ale
Beer-braised Beef
Van Steenberge Piraat 7 Strong Ale — NEW
Beer Flight
Chilled Belgian Coffee
Brouwerij St. Bernardus Watou Blond Ale — NEW
Chilled Belgian Coffee with ChocoLat Deluxe Salted Caramel Chocolate Liqueur

Brazil

Located between Morocco and France

Moqueca de Camarão — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Pão de Queijo — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frozen Caipirinha
BrewDog Brewing Company Peach Mango Wheat Ale — NEW

France

Boeuf Braise vin Rouge et Echalottes, Gâteau de Pomes de Terre — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Crème Brûlée Pistache, Confiture de Fruits Rouges — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Brioche aux Epices avec une Garniture Mornay de Trois Fromages — NEW
Plaimont ELIA Colombard — NEW
La Roche Prestige Cuvée — NEW
Chilled French Cosmo
Trio d’Escargots, Garniture a l’ail et au Persil — 30th Anniversary

United Kingdom

UK Beer Cart

Sparkling Cucumber-Gin Cocktail — NEW

Canada

Canada Popcorn Cart

Northern Ruby — NEW

Canada

Cheddar and Bacon Soup — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Filet Mignon — 30th Anniversary
Collective Arts Brewing Festbier — NEW
Château des Charmes Pétales Rouge

La Poutinerie Hosted by Air Canada

Seoul, South Korea: Bo Ssam Pork Poutine — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Spiced Apple Slushy — NEW

Shimmering Sips

Located near Port of Entry featuring Pandora Jewelry

Strawberry Champagne Trifle

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mimosa Flight
Tropical Mimosa
Berry Mimosa
Blood Orange Mimosa

Hawai’i

Slow-roasted Pork Slider — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Florida Avenue Brewing Co Lei’d Back Double IPA — NEW
Florida Orange Groves Winery Sparkling Pineapple Wine
Hawaiian Rice Bowl
Pineapple Cheesecake

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

O’ahu Sunrise

Walkway Between Imagination! Pavilion and World Showcase

Bramblewood Bites

Brûléed Sweet Potatoes — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Spiced Apple Rum Old Fashioned
Grilled Cider-brined Pork Tenderloin
Crooked Can Brewing Company Banana Bread German Style Wheat Beer — NEW
Cast Iron-seared River Trout

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Milled & Mulled

Butternut Squash and Ginger Bisque

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

3 Daughters Brewing Apple Strudel Hard Cider
Freshly Baked Carrot Cake — 30th Anniversary
Apple-Cinnamon and Caramel Mini Churros Sundae

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Southern Tier Brewing Company Sweater Weather Vanilla Toffee Amber Ale — NEW

Forest & Field

Spicy Black Bean-Mushroom Chili — NEW

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Brewery Ommegang All Hallows Treat Imperial Chocolate Peanut Butter Stout
Pumpkin-Mascarpone Ravioli — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Famille Hugel Classic Pinot Noir
Schiacciata Sandwich
Daou Vineyards Chardonnay

Swirled Showcase

Liquid Nitrogen Almond Truffle Mousse — 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Irish Milk Shake
Soft-serve in a Waffle Cone
Strawberry Beer Float
Floats
Früli Strawberry Belgian White Beer
Frozen Szarlotka non-alcoholic — NEW; 30th Anniversary

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frozen Szarlotka — NEW
Banfi Rosa Regale Sparkling Red

Throughout the Park

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

The American Adventure

Affogato alle Mandorle Cold Brew — NEW

Near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Affogato di Marshmallow Cold Brew — NEW

Near Disney Traders

Dolce Affogato Cold Brew — NEW

Between UK and Canada

Notte di Caramello Cold Brew — NEW

You’ll notice that some booths are not open during the entire festival with some opening in September and October. If there’s a specific booth you’re coming for, make sure you check the date before planning your visit.

Live Music: The Eat to the Beat Concert Series Returns

The beloved Eat to the Beat Concert Series returns for 2026 at the America Gardens Theatre inside the American Adventure Pavilion, running nightly from August 27-November 16, 2026. That means the concert series wraps five days before the festival itself closes on November 21, so keep that in mind if you are planning a late-festival trip around a show. Shows typically run multiple times nightly, around 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM.

Disney has released the full 2026 lineup, including three artists making their EPCOT debut this year: Lauren Alaina, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Grace Potter. They join returning favorites like Boyz II Men, Yellowcard, and The Beach Boys. For the complete artist list, showtimes, and Dining Package strategy, check out our full guide: Your Complete Guide to the 2026 Eat to the Beat Concert Series.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks BlogF

MouseDining Tip

Dining Packages for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series sell out quickly, but spots do open up. Set a MouseDining alert for participating restaurants so you are notified the moment a reservation becomes available.

For a complete breakdown of the concert series, showtimes, participating restaurants, and Dining Package strategy, see our full guide: Your Complete Guide to the 2026 Eat to the Beat Concert Series.

Family Fun: Remy’s Hide & Squeak and Emile’s Fromage Montage

The festival is not just for grown-up foodies, and Disney makes sure of it. Two beloved family activities are confirmed returning for 2026.

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak

The festival’s signature scavenger hunt invites guests to track down hidden Remy figurines placed throughout World Showcase. Purchase a themed map and stickers, then track your progress as you find him in each pavilion. Spot Remy in every location and a special keepsake awaits. It is one of the best ways to keep younger guests engaged while the rest of the group explores the booths at a comfortable pace.

Emile’s Fromage Montage

For the cheese lovers in the group, this activity challenges guests to purchase five select cheese dishes from participating Global Marketplaces, collect a stamp in their Festival Passport for each one, and redeem the completed passport for a specialty prize. It adds a fun, structured element to booth-hopping and is highly recommended for anyone who takes their fromage seriously.

The participating dishes for 2026 are:

Belgian Waffle
Pão de Queijo
Fried Pickle Spears
Three-Cheese Macaroni and Cheese
Apple-Cinnamon and Caramel Mini Churros Sundae

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

New This Year: CommuniCore Hall’s Cheers to Cheese

Starting September 18, 2026, CommuniCore Hall trades its summer theme for an all-new interactive exhibit celebrating one of the world’s most beloved foods: cheese. You’ll find fun facts and the history of cheese around every corner of the space.

Keep in mind the exhibit opens three weeks into the festival, so if you’re visiting between August 27 and September 17, you’ll miss it. CommuniCore Hall is built to flex with whatever season EPCOT is celebrating, so expect it to look different again once Food & Wine wraps.

Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots

Disney PhotoPass photographers throughout EPCOT will be offering new and returning Magic Shots for the festival. New for 2026 is a Waiter Mickey Mouse Magic Shot appearing in select World Showcase pavilions, including Mexico, China, Italy, Japan, and France.

Returning favorites include a Giant Empanada, the Leaning Tower of Cheeza with Max Goof, a Swedish Chef Magic Shot, and Chef Figment. If you want to keep these photos long after your trip, consider adding a Memory Maker package to your vacation.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Food & Wine Merchandise

This year’s collection leans into playful color, with pieces like a festival tee, chef-themed ears with a moveable rolling pin and whisk, a cozy sweatshirt, and a baseball cap, plus fun extras like a wine glass and a churro-shaped tote bag. Check the Disney Parks shopping app or your nearest EPCOT shop for current availability and pricing.

Tips for Planning Your 2026 Food & Wine Visit

With 87 days on the calendar, you have real flexibility. But a little planning goes a long way. Here is what we tell every guest who asks how to get the most out of it:

Book dining reservations early. EPCOT’s table-service restaurants fill up fast during the festival, especially if you are eyeing an Eat to the Beat Dining Package. Disney’s reservation window opens 60 days before your arrival date. Be ready.
Visit on weekdays when possible. Crowds run lighter Tuesday through Thursday, and local entertainment takes the America Gardens Theatre stage on those nights for a relaxed, low-key evening.
Pace yourself across multiple visits. With 30+ booths, trying to cover everything in one day is not realistic and takes the enjoyment out of the experience. Spread your visits and actually savor each stop.
Download My Disney Experience before you arrive. Showtimes, booth locations, dining reservations, and park hours are all in one place. It is essential for navigating the festival.
Arrive early for popular concerts. Without a Dining Package, general seating is first-come, first-served. For headliners that draw large crowds, plan to be in place 30 to 40 minutes before showtime.

Photo credit: Disney Parks Blog

MouseDining Tip

Already missed a reservation or cannot get the date you want? Do not give up. Cancellations happen every single day. Set a MouseDining alert for any restaurant on your list and you will be notified the moment a table opens up.

Stay Tuned — More Details Are Coming

Disney is still finalizing the complete Global Marketplace booth and menu list and the official Foodie Guide. The Eat to the Beat lineup and Dining Package details are both out now, so check our concert guide for the latest. We’ll keep updating this page as more announcements roll in, so bookmark it and check back often.

The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival opens on August 27, 2026. Start planning your trip now, and when you are ready to lock in dining, visit MouseDining.com to set alerts and secure the reservations that make your festival truly exceptional.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival?
The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival runs August 27-November 21, 2026, giving you an 87-day window to visit.

Do I need a separate ticket for the Food & Wine Festival?
No. The festival is included with standard EPCOT park admission, so you do not need to buy anything extra to access the Global Marketplace booths or entertainment.

Is the Eat to the Beat Concert Series free?
Yes. Every Eat to the Beat concert is included with regular EPCOT admission. Seating is first-come, first-served unless you book a Dining Package for a guaranteed seat.

When does the Eat to the Beat Concert Series end?
The concert series runs nightly from August 27-November 16, 2026, which is five days before the festival itself closes on November 21.

What food items are confirmed to return for 2026?
Disney has confirmed three returning dishes so far: the Street Corn-style Dumplings at Gyozas of the Galaxy, the Grilled Bushberry-spiced Shrimp Skewer at the Australia Marketplace, and the Kirschwasser Torte at The Alps Marketplace. The full Global Marketplace menu has not been released yet.

Is CommuniCore Hall’s Cheers to Cheese exhibit open for the entire festival?
No. It opens September 18, 2026, three weeks into the festival, so guests visiting between August 27 and September 17 will miss it.

How can I get hard-to-find dining reservations during the festival?
Set a MouseDining alert for any restaurant on your list, and you will be notified the moment a table opens up, even if it currently shows no availability.

D23 2026 Disney Announcements: Every U.S. Park Update

News By Kim Fidler August 17, 2026 Tags: Carousel of Progress, D23 Announcements, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disneyland, Epcot, Figment, Indiana Jones, Magic Kingdom, Monstropolis, Piston Peak National Park, Spaceship Earth, Tropical Americas, Villains Land, walt disney world, World of Color 1 Comment

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event took place in Anaheim on August 14-16, 2026, and Saturday night’s Disney Experiences Showcase brought a ton of news for both coasts. We learned new details and got a few surprises too.

We’ve put together every Disneyland and Walt Disney World theme park announcement in one place, so you don’t have to scroll for hours. You’ll find all the official details and dates that have been released, and we’re calling out which parts are new versus which projects you’ve already heard about.

Walt Disney World

All four Walt Disney World parks got news at D23 this year. Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios each had at least one update, ranging from brand new project reveals to fresh details on lands that have been under construction for a while.

Magic Kingdom

Villains Land has been in the works since 2024, but D23 is where it actually became real. Disney confirmed the official name, ah-hem… Villains Land and gave us our first look at the two headline attractions. First is a roller coaster starring Maleficent, and the second is a dark ride hosted by the Evil Queen’s Magic Mirror. The Evil Queen, Cruella de Vil, and Dr. Facilier each get their own space inside the land. Disney has not announced an opening date. Based on the permits filed so far, most fan trackers are guessing somewhere between late 2027 and 2030.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Piston Peak National Park, the Cars-themed land replacing Rivers of America, is also a known project. What’s new: both rides finally have names. Cars Ridge Run Rally is the thrill ride, sending guests up a mountain and through a geyser field. Miss Fritter’s Daredevil Spin-Along is the family-friendly one, a demolition derby starring a school-bus-sized Miss Fritter animatronic. Disney has not set an opening date.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Carousel of Progress was already closed for its overhaul before D23, and we already knew it was getting a new 1980s scene with a target reopening of late spring 2027. What we DIDN’T know: Jamie Lee Curtis and Bryan Cranston are voicing Mother and Father. Can you imagine a more iconic duo? We can’t.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

EPCOT

Spaceship Earth is all new news. Disney announced its first major story change in nearly 20 years, shifting the ride’s focus from communication to human connection while keeping the same trip through history. Disney has not shared closure or reopening dates yet.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Journey Into Imagination with Figment is also a fresh announcement. Disney confirmed the ride is being reimagined and that Dreamfinder is officially coming back. That’s all Disney shared. There is no concept art, no timeline, and no word yet on what happens to the current ride in the meantime.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Tropical Americas, the land replacing the old DinoLand, U.S.A., has been in the pipeline since 2024. D23 filled in the blanks: all three attractions now have official names and story details. Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent will feature an Audio-Animatronics figure modeled after Harrison Ford himself. Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto, a ride through dark attraction, and El Carrusel de los Animalitos, a family-friendly carousel, round out the land. It’s still on track for 2027.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Expedition Everest’s Yeti is a surprise addition to the list. The massive animatronic has run in “B-mode,” using a strobe effect instead of full motion, for close to 20 years. Disney confirmed at D23 that it’s finally being repaired, though no timeline was given.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Monstropolis, the Monsters, Inc. land taking over the old Muppets Courtyard, is another project we already knew about. New at D23: parts of the land will start opening in 2027, ahead of its headliner. The suspended door-chase coaster will not be ready when the rest of the land opens, and Disney hasn’t set a date for it. What is coming in 2027: Harryhausen’s restaurant, the Glob Theater (with a brand new Disney Legend Randy Newman song called “Welcome to Monstropolis”), and the Scareporium gift shop.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort’s D23 news leaned more on updates than reveals. Most of what came out was new detail layered onto projects Disney had already confirmed, plus the one surprise fans had been hoping for: official word that Tomorrowland is finally getting reimagined.

Disneyland Park

Tomorrowland is getting a full reimagining. This one’s new. Disney promised more attractions and more open space, but this was more of an “it’s happening” reveal than a details reveal. Disney has not announced a timeline, but we’re hoping Tomorrowland is more like tomorrow and less like years away…

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Remember… Dreams Come True, the nighttime fireworks spectacular, is coming back with refreshed projections starting in February 2027. That date is new.
Magic Happens, the daytime parade, is returning to Disneyland Park as part of a new “Calling All Dreamers” celebration. Disney has not attached a specific return date. We’re thrilled to see this fan favorite parade return.

Disney California Adventure Park

Coco, the boat ride, has been a known project since it was first announced. What’s new is the story detail: it’s set a year after the movie, the entrance features Miguel’s great-great-grandfather Hector Rivera, and boats carry guests through the Land of the Dead. There’s no height requirement. Disney has not announced an opening date for this ride either.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The Avatar experience is still on the books. Disney has not canceled it, despite rumors going into D23, and showed a new model of the boat ride on the show floor, confirming the project for Hollywood Land is still moving forward. What’s new is the timeline. Disney is shifting the project’s priority to focus resources on the new Tomorrowland project at Disneyland Park first, which pushes Avatar’s own opening further out. That delay has an upside for guests: Disney has pushed back the closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!, the ride Avatar will eventually replace, again. Disney has not announced a new closure date.
Avengers Campus doubling in size isn’t new, but the timeline is. Two new attractions, Avengers: Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab, are now confirmed for 2028. Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, and Brie Larson are all reprising their roles.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

World of Color isn’t getting a new name. Disney is retiring the current “World of Color – One” and bringing back the original “World of Color” title with an updated take, featuring new segments from films like The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Toy Story. It returns in February 2027.

That’s every theme park update Disney confirmed at D23 2026 for Disneyland and Walt Disney World. A lot of these are still years out, so treat the “no date yet” items as things to keep an eye on rather than trip-planning details for now. Once dining reservations open for new spots like Harryhausen’s, set a free dining alert at MouseDining.com so you don’t miss your shot at a table.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did D23 2026 take place?
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event ran August 14-16, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center and Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

What is opening first at Walt Disney World?
Carousel of Progress has the earliest confirmed date, reopening in late spring 2027. Disney is also targeting parts of Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom and parts of Monstropolis at Hollywood Studios for 2027.

Did Disney give an opening date for Villains Land?
No. Disney confirmed the name and the two headline attractions but did not announce an opening date.

Is a Cars ride coming to Magic Kingdom?
Yes. Piston Peak National Park is the Cars-themed land replacing Rivers of America in Frontierland. Its two attractions, Cars Ridge Run Rally and Miss Fritter’s Daredevil Spin-Along, both got official names at D23 2026, though Disney has not announced an opening date.

Is Dreamfinder coming back to EPCOT?
Yes. Disney confirmed it is reimagining Journey Into Imagination with Figment and bringing Dreamfinder officially back. Disney has not shared a timeline, concept art, or any word on what happens to the current ride in the meantime.

What’s new at EPCOT?
Spaceship Earth is getting its first major story change in nearly 20 years, shifting the ride’s focus to human connection. Disney is also reimagining Journey Into Imagination with Figment and bringing back Dreamfinder. Disney has not announced dates for either project.

What’s new at Disney’s Animal Kingdom?
Tropical Americas now has official names and story details for all three of its attractions, and it’s still on track for a 2027 opening. Disney also confirmed that it’s finally repairing the long-broken Yeti animatronic in Expedition Everest, though it did not give a repair timeline.

What’s new at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
Monstropolis, the Monsters, Inc. land, will begin opening in phases in 2027, though its headliner suspended coaster will not be ready yet. Disney also shared new details on Harryhausen’s restaurant and a new theme song from Randy Newman.

What’s new at Disneyland Park?
Disney confirmed it is reimagining Tomorrowland, though it did not announce a timeline. The Remember… Dreams Come True fireworks show returns in February 2027, and the Magic Happens parade is coming back as part of a new “Calling All Dreamers” celebration.

What’s new at Disney California Adventure Park?
New story details on the Coco boat ride, a 2028 opening date for the expanded Avengers Campus, confirmation that Disney has not canceled the Avatar experience (it’s just coming later than planned), and an updated take on the original World of Color returning in February 2027.

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