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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 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.

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.

Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic 2026 Guide

Foodie Guide By Kim Fidler August 16, 2026 Tags: Epcot, Food & Wine, Foodie Guide, Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic No Comments

Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic 2026: Your Complete Guide

The Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is back November 20-21, 2026, from 5-9pm both nights. This one’s for the crowd that wants an intimate, chef-focused evening with room to actually savor the food.

November 21 is also the last day of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, and the Swan and Dolphin hotels are a short walk or boat ride from World Showcase. That means you can hit EPCOT during the day and walk over to the causeway for dinner. This pairing works out nicely if you’re already in town for both events.

Photo Credit: Swan Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

What Is the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic?

It’s an annual event hosted by the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, which are located on Disney property, but are not owned or operated by Disney Parks. Each fall, the causeway connecting the two hotels turns into an outdoor food festival for two nights, with dishes from the resort’s 23 restaurants and lounges. The event started in 2010, and 2026 marks its 17th year.

The event also partners with a charity each year. Wounded Warrior Project was the beneficiary in both 2024 and 2025, though the Swan and Dolphin hasn’t announced the 2026 charity partner yet. We’ll update this article once that’s confirmed.

The vibe is different from EPCOT’s festival. You get one causeway, a lineup of the resort’s own chefs, and four relaxed hours to make your way through it at your own pace.

Photo Credit: Swan Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

2026 Event Details

When: Friday, November 20 & Saturday, November 21, 2026, 5-9pm both nights

Where: The Causeway at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

Ticket Price: $234.90 per person for one night, or save 10% with a two-night bundle

What’s Included: Your ticket covers unlimited tastings for the full four hours, and that includes the food and the drinks. Wine, beer, and spirits are part of the ticket price, not an add-on. Over 170 beverage selections are on the menu alongside the food.

Photo Credit: Swan Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

The 2026 Menu

The Swan and Dolphin has released the full 2026 menu. You’ll notice some dishes are limited to one night, while others are available both Friday and Saturday.

Smokin’ D’s BBQ Friday: Slow Cooked Berkshire Pork Belly Saturday: Poor Man’s Burnt Ends

Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina Both Nights: Slow Braised Wagyu Beef Short Rib Friday: Hand Dipped Mozzarella Sticks Saturday: Loaded Potato Barrels

Todd English’s bluezoo Both Nights: Oyster Espuma | Striped Bass | Pan Fried Shrimp & Pork Dumplings

Il Mulino New York Trattoria Friday: Lasagna Saturday: Chestnut Agnolotti

Lagoon Games, Lanes & Eats Friday: Mini Smash Burger Saturday: French Dip Grilled Cheese

The Fountain Friday: Tuna Rice Bowl Saturday: Grilled & Marinated Gulf Shrimp

Cabana Friday: Cured Salmon & Blue Crab Saturday: Bluefin Tuna Hamachi

Kimonos Friday: Crispy Fried Eggplant Saturday: Watermelon Feta Salad

Rosa Mexicano (Both Nights) Flautas de Pollo | Tacos de Cochinita Pibil

Garden Grove (Both Nights) Chips and Salsa Bar | Shu Mein | Taro Pu | Turnip Cake

For the Love of Florida (Both Nights) Ropa Vieja | Red Grouper

The Beer Garden (Both Nights) Crispy Fried Chicken Wings | Grilled Beef Brats | Fresh Baked Bavarian Pretzel

Carnival Corner (Both Nights) “Char Siu” Pulled Pork Slider | Tornado Potatoes | Old Bay Spiced Nitro Popcorn | Texas Red Chili

Chinatown Friday: Roasted Figs & Maitake Mushrooms Saturday: Vegan Banh Mi

Bubble Lounge (Both Nights) Florida Citrus | Fried Green Tomatoes

Photo Credit: Swan Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

Chef-Led Tasting Experiences (New for 2026)

If you want something more structured than working the causeway station by station, the Chef Todd English Experience and Chef Michael Mina Experience are new this year. Both are sit-down, multi-course meals with wine pairings, led by the chefs themselves. You can find details on both experiences here.

Getting Your Event Tickets

This event tends to sell out, so don’t wait too long if you want tickets. You can grab them here. Sign up for the mailing list too if you want to hear about updates as they happen, and lock in the rest of your Walt Disney World dining plans through MouseDining so nothing gets in the way of a great trip.

Photo Credit: Swan Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drinks included with the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic ticket?

Yes. Wine, beer, and spirits are part of the same ticket as the food, so there’s nothing extra to pay for once you’re inside. Over 170 beverage selections are included alongside the food.

Do kids need a ticket for the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic?

Kids under 5 get in free with a paying adult. Kids age 6 and up need their own ticket which is the same price as an adult ticket.

Are Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic tickets refundable?

No, tickets are non-refundable, so make sure your dates are firm before you buy.

Do you have to be a Swan and Dolphin hotel guest to attend?

No. The Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is open to the public. You don’t have to be staying at the resort to buy a ticket.

Is parking included with your Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic ticket?

No. Parking at the resort runs about $30-40 a night plus tax for self-parking, and that applies whether you’re a hotel guest or just coming for the event.

What happens if it rains during the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic?

The event runs rain or shine. If the weather gets bad enough, it moves indoors.

Does the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?

Yes. In past years, the menu has labeled each dish for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, shellfish, and nut content, and some items are prepared gluten-free upon request. Check the posted menu for this year’s specific labels, and if you have a serious allergy, it’s worth asking staff directly at each station before you order.

How many nights of the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic should you attend?

One ticket is enough if you’re okay picking your top 10 or 15 dishes and calling it a night. Some items are Friday-only or Saturday-only, so if you want to try everything, you’ll need both nights.

Can you combine the Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic with EPCOT Food & Wine?

Yes, and plenty of people do both in the same day. Spend the afternoon working through Global Marketplace booths at EPCOT, then walk or take the boat over to the Swan and Dolphin by 5. It’s a full, food-filled day for anyone up for it. Wear shoes you can actually stand in for hours.

Disney World Fireworks: Every Way to Watch (2026)

General, Special Events By Kim Fidler June 29, 2026 Tags: Epcot, Fireworks, Fourth of July, Happily Ever After, Luminous, Magic Kingdom, walt disney world No Comments

Every Way to Watch Fireworks at Walt Disney World (2026 Guide)

Few moments top a Walt Disney World day like the sky lighting up over Cinderella Castle. The good news is you have far more than one way to see it. You can watch from a packed Main Street curb, a quiet resort beach, a private boat, a covered restaurant patio, a moving gondola, or your own balcony.

This guide walks you through all of it. You will find the nightly shows in each park, the dessert parties and dining packages, the restaurants with a view, the private cruises, the resorts with fireworks-view rooms, and the unique angles most guests never think to use. We also cover the special shows for the Fourth of July and the after-hours holiday parties.

Showtimes shift by season and weather, so always confirm the current schedule in the My Disney Experience app before you head out.

The Nightly Fireworks Shows, Park by Park

Start here, because the regular shows are included with your park ticket. No extra purchase required.

Magic Kingdom: Happily Ever After

Happily Ever After is the marquee show and the one most people picture. It pairs perimeter fireworks with full castle projections set to a soaring score. It runs nightly on most evenings, usually once per night. On hard-ticket party nights the park closes early and Happily Ever After does not play, so plan your visit on a non-party night if this is your goal.

The classic head-on view is the central plaza in front of the castle. For a different angle on a repeat viewing, the platform above the Main Street Train Station puts you above the crowd and gives you the quickest exit. The Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover and the back of the castle near Prince Charming Regal Carousel offer quieter, lesser-known perspectives.

After the fireworks, watch for the nightly Electrical Water Pageant, a floating parade of light-up sea creatures that drifts across Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. You can catch it from the Magic Kingdom area resorts and beaches, and it makes a gentle encore to the main show.

EPCOT: Luminous The Symphony of Us

Luminous The Symphony of Us is EPCOT’s nighttime spectacular over World Showcase Lagoon. It blends fireworks, fountains, lasers, and lights set to an original score plus Disney songbook favorites. Because the lagoon is large, the crowd spreads out more than at Magic Kingdom. Many show elements sit lower to the water, so aim for a spot right along the lagoon railing for the best view. If you visit in late November or December, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays surrounds the lagoon with Candlelight Processional, Holiday Kitchens, and storytellers, a festive backdrop for the show. See our EPCOT Festival of the Holidays 2026 guide for dates and details.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Fantasmic! and Wonderful World of Animation

Hollywood Studios does not run a traditional aerial fireworks show, but it offers two nighttime options. Fantasmic! is a water-and-light spectacular in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater that includes pyrotechnics, projections, and a cast of characters. Wonderful World of Animation is a projection show on the Chinese Theater with sparkle accents. If you want pyro, Fantasmic! is your pick.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom does not have fireworks, and that is by design. The park is home to hundreds of live animals, and loud booms and bright nighttime bursts would stress them. Disney keeps the skies quiet here to protect their wellbeing. Plan your fireworks night at one of the other parks, and enjoy Animal Kingdom for its daytime experience instead.

Dessert Parties and Fireworks Dining Packages

Want a guaranteed spot and a treat in hand? These add-ons trade a higher price for less stress and a reserved view. None are required for a good view, but they are worth it for a first viewing, a celebration, or a busy holiday week.

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties

All three take place at Tomorrowland Terrace and include a spread of desserts and drinks inspired by each land in the park. The difference is when and where you watch.

Pre-Party Enjoy desserts first, then move to a reserved standing area in the Plaza Garden for the show.
Post-Party Watch from the reserved Plaza Garden area first, then return for desserts after.
Seats & Sweets Stay seated on the Tomorrowland Terrace patio the entire time, with table seating for the show.

Pricing starts around $99 per adult for the pre-party and post-party, with Seats & Sweets running higher. Prices vary by date, so see the My Disney Experience app for current numbers. Book up to 60 days out and keep checking, since cancellations open up often. MouseDining can set an alert for these hard-to-get reservations, so you do not have to keep refreshing the app yourself.

EPCOT Luminous Dining Packages

EPCOT offers a full sit-down meal plus reserved patio viewing of Luminous. You stay in your seat for the whole show.

Rose & Crown Dining Room A prix fixe British meal with an appetizer, entree, dessert, and unlimited beverages. The patio offers an excellent open view over the lagoon. Starts around $92 per adult.
Spice Road Table Mediterranean small plates, a shared tagine, a dessert platter, and unlimited beverages on a covered patio in the Morocco pavilion. Starts around $81 per adult.

Both reserve a lagoon-front section, though Rose & Crown is the more coveted view. Confirm current pricing and showtimes in the app before booking.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Hollywood Studios Fantasmic! Dining Package

The Fantasmic! Dining Package pairs a meal at a participating Hollywood Studios restaurant with reserved seating in the Fantasmic! amphitheater. Choices range from 50’s Prime Time Cafe to The Hollywood Brown Derby to the Hollywood & Vine character meal. Your section is reserved, but seats within it are first come, first served, so still arrive early for the center rows.

Restaurants With a Fireworks View

You do not need a dessert party to dine with the show. Several signature restaurants pipe in the music, dim the lights, and time your meal around showtime so you can step out and watch.

California Grill At the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, this rooftop signature has floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor observation deck. The lights dim and the Happily Ever After music plays inside, and the kitchen schedules service around the show. Step onto the deck for a close, elevated view of Magic Kingdom.
Narcoossee’s This waterfront spot at Disney’s Grand Floridian looks across Seven Seas Lagoon toward the castle. The fireworks music is piped in, and you can step out to the dock to watch.
Topolino’s Terrace On the rooftop of Disney’s Riviera Resort, you can catch EPCOT’s Luminous, and on a clear night, glimpses of more than one park. Time your reservation around the show and head to the terrace.

Because these restaurants book around the nightly show, reserve a table for the window that lines up with fireworks time, then confirm the showtime in the app two weeks out and again the day of.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Private Fireworks Cruises and Boat Tours

For a crowd-free view from the water, charter a private boat. These are pay-one-price outings, so they get more economical the larger your group.

Private Fireworks Cruises put your party on a pontoon boat with a Disney captain who positions you on the water for either Happily Ever After or Luminous. Magic Kingdom cruises depart from the monorail resort marinas. EPCOT cruises depart from Disney’s Yacht Club. Snacks, water, and soft drinks are included, and the captain can decorate the boat for a celebration on request. Boats seat up to 10 guests, and theme park admission is not required.

Pricing is per boat, not per person, which is what makes a bigger group such a good value. Rates start around $449 plus tax and vary by date. For the Fourth of July weekend, July 3 – July 5, 2026, rates start higher, around $499 plus tax per boat, and you must call to check availability. Book up to 60 days in advance through the app or by phone, and confirm your show two weeks out, since fireworks can be rescheduled or canceled for weather.

Capacity is very limited. Only a small number of boats sail each night, so these cruises sell out fast and are often fully booked in the near term, including the current week. Book as far ahead as you can, and let MouseDining set an alert so you hear the moment a cancellation opens up.

Resorts With Fireworks-View Rooms

Here is the perspective many guests overlook. You can watch from your own balcony. Disney labels a room as a theme park or fireworks view only when the view is genuinely strong, so booking the right category and requesting a high floor makes a real difference. Outside the parks you trade the projections for scale, and the pyro looks enormous from across the water.

Magic Kingdom Area Resorts

Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary The closest and most elevated view. Theme Park View villas on higher floors look straight at the castle, with fireworks reflecting off the water.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Theme park and Bay Lake view rooms deliver a close angle over Tomorrowland. The fourth-floor observation deck is open to all and a reliable free spot.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort The Island Tower sits southwest of the castle, so the view is nicely centered with Seven Seas Lagoon in the foreground. The resort beach is a beloved viewing spot with the music piped in.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Lagoon-facing and corner rooms catch the show across the water. The marina near Gasparilla Island Grill lines up directly with the castle.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge A quieter option. Nature Fireworks View rooms and the Old Faithful Club level can glimpse the show over the treetops.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

EPCOT Area Resorts

Disney’s Riviera Resort Standard rooms on high floors see Spaceship Earth lit up and a good slice of Luminous, plus distant Magic Kingdom bursts. Topolino’s Terrace on the rooftop catches multiple parks at once.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas Higher water-view and BoardWalk-view rooms facing EPCOT can catch the tall Luminous bursts over Crescent Lake.
Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts Select rooms get fireworks views, and the shared Stormalong Bay pool area sees the higher EPCOT pyro.
Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs The budget-friendly pick, with tower views toward both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios from a Moderate resort price point.

Unique Viewing Perspectives

These are the angles that turn a fireworks night into a story you retell. Most are free.

From the Disney Skyliner

Yes, you can catch fireworks from the gondola. Riding the Skyliner during EPCOT’s show gives you a moving, in-air vantage point you cannot get anywhere else, and the bridge and overlook near the Caribbean Beach station offer a distant view of the higher bursts. The Skyliner is also the smoothest way to clear out after EPCOT, since it tends to run later in the evening. Confirm operating hours that day, and remember the gondolas pause during lightning.

From the Monorail and Resort Decks

The monorail loop links three resorts with strong castle views, which makes a relaxed resort-hop a fun way to spend a fireworks evening. The Contemporary’s fourth-floor deck, the Polynesian beach, and the Grand Floridian marina all line up with the castle, and several pipe in the show music. One heads-up: the monorail resorts restrict parking to guests with a room or dining reservation near showtime, so plan to arrive by monorail, boat, or with an Advance Dining Reservation.

From Elevated Spots Inside the Parks

At Magic Kingdom, the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover gives you a calm, elevated, often walk-on view during the show, and you can sometimes re-ride. The platform atop the Main Street Train Station rises above the crowd. At EPCOT, the upper level of the Japan pavilion near Mitsukoshi looks out over the lagoon with fewer people than the bridges.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Seasonal and Special-Event Fireworks

Certain nights swap the regular show for something bigger or rarer. These are worth building a trip around.

Fourth of July 2026

Independence Day brings the most patriotic pyro of the year, and 2026 is expanded as part of the nationwide 250th anniversary celebration. Magic Kingdom presents Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky, with perimeter fireworks and a simultaneous display over Seven Seas Lagoon for a near 360-degree effect. EPCOT adds a patriotic finale tag to Luminous. Both are currently scheduled across three nights, July 3 – July 5, 2026, the first time the holiday has run over three nights at both parks.

Dates and showtimes can change, and the third night has shifted in past years, so reconfirm in the My Disney Experience app closer to your visit. Expect very high crowds and arrive early for a spot.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

This separately ticketed Magic Kingdom event runs select nights from August 7 – October 31, 2026, from 7:00 PM to midnight, and party ticket holders can enter as early as 4:00 PM. The exclusive fireworks show is Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, hosted by Jack Skellington, with projections, lasers, and a haunted-house storyline starring Mickey and friends. It is the only fireworks at Magic Kingdom on party nights, so Happily Ever After does not play. Tickets generally run from around $119 to $229 by date, and two Halloween dessert parties at Tomorrowland Terrace offer reserved viewing. Confirm current pricing with Disney. For every party night and our planning tips, see our Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party guide.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

The holiday after-hours party returns to Magic Kingdom select nights from November 8 – December 22, 2026, again from 7:00 PM to midnight with 4:00 PM early entry. Its signature show is Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, a festive spectacular with castle projections and classic carols. The party also brings snowfall on Main Street, the holiday parade, and complimentary cookies and cocoa. The Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks dessert party returns as a separate add-on. After the final party on December 22, the holiday fireworks often move to regular park hours for day guests through the end of the month. For dates, tickets, and the full lineup, see our Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2026 guide.

Disney Jollywood Nights

Over at Hollywood Studios, this after-hours holiday event runs 15 select nights from November 7, 2026 – January 5, 2027, extending into January for the first time. You can enter as early as 5:30 PM, with the party running from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. Its nighttime spectacular, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, pairs projections and fireworks for a Hollywood-style holiday show you will not see during regular park hours. For the full lineup and every party night, see our Disney Jollywood Nights 2026 guide.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

New Year’s Eve

Disney rings in the new year with special presentations on December 30 and 31. Magic Kingdom and EPCOT both stage holiday fireworks, and EPCOT adds dance parties around World Showcase. These are among the busiest nights of the year, so claim a spot well ahead. Confirm the lineup in the app as the dates approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Magic Kingdom have fireworks every night?

Almost every night. Happily Ever After runs nightly on most evenings, except on hard-ticket party nights with early closures, when the party’s exclusive show plays instead. Always check the app for that day’s schedule.

Can you see fireworks without going into a park?

Yes. Resort beaches, marinas, observation decks, the Skyliner, and many resort rooms all offer views, often with the music piped in. Theme park admission is not required for a private fireworks cruise either.

Which resorts have the best fireworks-view rooms?

For Magic Kingdom, look at Bay Lake Tower, the Contemporary, the Polynesian Village (Island Tower), and the Grand Floridian. For EPCOT, look at the Riviera, the BoardWalk, and the Beach and Yacht Club. Request a high floor for the best odds.

Are the dessert parties and dining packages worth it?

They are not required for a good view, since plenty of free spots work well. They shine when you want a guaranteed, low-stress spot, a treat in hand, or a celebration, especially during a busy holiday week.

Can you watch fireworks from the Skyliner or monorail?

You can catch EPCOT’s show from the Skyliner and its stations, and Magic Kingdom’s show from the monorail resort decks and beaches. Neither transit system positions you for a full, head-on view, but both make for a memorable angle.

What special fireworks shows happen in 2026?

Disney’s Celebrate America! over the Fourth of July, Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular during the Halloween party, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks during the Christmas party, Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! during Jollywood Nights, and special New Year’s Eve presentations.

Our Best Fireworks Tips

There is no single best way to watch Walt Disney World fireworks, only the one that fits your night. Splurge on a private cruise for a celebration, book a dessert party for a stress-free first viewing, or simply find a quiet resort beach and let the show come to you. Whatever you choose, confirm the schedule in the My Disney Experience app, arrive early, and look up.

La Poutinerie at EPCOT: Menu, Prices, and What Changed at the Canada Pavilion

News By Kim Fidler June 28, 2026 Tags: Canada Pavilion, Disney food, Epcot, Epcot Restaurant, La Poutinerie, Walt Disney World Resort No Comments

La Poutinerie at EPCOT: Menu, Prices, and What Changed at the Canada Pavilion

La Poutinerie opens July 1, 2026, at EPCOT, and it gives the Canada Pavilion a fresh new flavor. This Canadian-themed quick-service spot replaces Refreshment Port near the entrance to World Showcase, and it leans all the way into poutine. Below you will find the full La Poutinerie menu, current prices, and a clear look at how it differs from the stand it replaced.

What is La Poutinerie?

La Poutinerie is a quick-service counter at EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion, hosted by Air Canada. The airline serves as the Official Canadian Airline of Walt Disney World Resort, so the partnership ties neatly into the pavilion theme. You will order at the same window Refreshment Port used, just before you reach Canada in World Showcase, facing the lagoon.

The new concept does more than swap a name. Disney rethemed the building with fresh stonework on the columns, a repainted roof, updated signage, and a centerpiece of Canada geese in flight. New maple trees, flowers, and landscaping round out the look, so the location now feels built into the pavilion rather than parked beside it.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

When does La Poutinerie open?

La Poutinerie opens July 1, 2026, which is also Canada Day. That timing fits the Air Canada partnership and gives Disney a splashier debut. The location closed as Refreshment Port on January 12, 2026, and it has been under refurbishment ever since.

The full La Poutinerie menu and prices

The menu centers on two poutines, then adds a short Canadian drink list with both non-alcoholic and alcoholic picks. Disney published the full lineup with prices on its official website and in the My Disney Experience app. Here is everything.

Prices reflect Disney’s announced menu and can change. You need valid ID for any alcoholic order.

What La Poutinerie replaced, and how it is different

La Poutinerie takes over the exact spot that Refreshment Port held for years. If you visited before, you remember a grab-and-go stand with a wider mix of snacks. Refreshment Port served multiple poutines, chicken fingers, a dessert, and DOLE Whip, plus rotating festival items. It sold poutine, but it never built its identity around the dish.

La Poutinerie flips that approach. The new stand narrows the food menu to two signature poutines and makes the Canadian classic the whole point. So you trade variety for focus, and you get a more defined Canadian theme in return.

What is gone

DOLE Whip, which longtime fans grabbed at this spot for years
Chicken fingers and the former dessert offering
The broad grab-and-go snack mix, now replaced by a tighter poutine lineup

What is new or expanded

A dedicated poutine focus, with a classic version and a Montréal smoked meat version
New Spiced Apple drinks, including a frozen slushy and a vodka mule
An expanded alcohol list with Canadian-leaning beer and sparkling wine
A full retheme of the building, signage, and landscaping

One note for returning guests. The classic Québec: L’authentique poutine is the same recipe Refreshment Port served before the switch, so your go-to fries, curds, and gravy survive the makeover.

Will festival poutine return during Food and Wine?

The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival runs starting August 27, 2026. In past years, this location served festival-only items like the Braised Beef Poutine. Disney has not confirmed festival offerings for La Poutinerie yet, so treat that as a hopeful maybe rather than a sure thing. We will update this guide if the festival menu adds anything here. For festival planning, see our 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival guide.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently asked questions

What is replacing Refreshment Port at EPCOT?

La Poutinerie, a Canadian-themed quick-service stand hosted by Air Canada, replaces Refreshment Port at EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion. It opens July 1, 2026.

When does La Poutinerie open?

La Poutinerie opens July 1, 2026, on Canada Day. Refreshment Port closed on January 12, 2026, for the refurbishment.

How much does poutine cost at La Poutinerie?

Poutine starts at $10.99 for the Québec: L’authentique. The Montréal: Viande Fumée with smoked meat runs $12.49.

Where is La Poutinerie located?

You will find La Poutinerie in EPCOT’s World Showcase at the Canada Pavilion, in the former Refreshment Port spot, facing the World Showcase Lagoon.

Does La Poutinerie still serve DOLE Whip?

No. The announced menu focuses on poutine and Canadian drinks, so DOLE Whip is not part of the new lineup.

Who sponsors La Poutinerie?

Air Canada hosts La Poutinerie. The airline is the Official Canadian Airline of Walt Disney World Resort.

Planning an EPCOT day around World Showcase? La Poutinerie gives the Canada Pavilion a stronger snack stop, and the classic poutine still anchors the menu. Add it to your route, then bookmark this page for any festival updates we spot after opening day.

$199 Disney World Ticket: EPCOT & Animal Kingdom 2026

News By Kim Fidler June 17, 2026 Tags: $199 Ticket, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Ticket Sale, walt disney world No Comments

New $199 Disney World Ticket: 2 Days at EPCOT and Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World just dropped a new $199 Disney World ticket for late summer and fall 2026. This limited-time deal gets you two days across two parks: EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The price starts at $199 plus tax, and you do not need park reservations.

If you have been waiting for a reason to plan a quick Florida trip, this is it. Here is exactly what the ticket covers, who can use it, and the fine print you need to know before you book.

What You Get With the $199 Disney World Ticket

This is a 2-Day, 2-Park ticket. You get one day at EPCOT and one day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here is the quick breakdown:

Price: starts at $199 plus tax
Parks: EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom only
Days: 2 total admissions, one park per day
Park reservations: not required
Blockout dates: none
Who qualifies: open to everyone, not just Florida residents

Disney expanded this deal to all guests this year. In the past, similar offers were limited to Florida residents, so this is a rare chance for out-of-state families to grab the savings.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

When You Can Use the $199 Disney World Ticket

This is a date-based ticket. You pick a start date, then use both days within a short window. Here are the key dates:

Start dates: August 3 – September 30, 2026
Use-by rule: both days must be used within 4 days of your selected start date

So if you start on a Friday, you have a tight window to fit in both park days. Plan your two days back to back to keep things simple.

Catch the Last of Cool Kids’ Summer

Here is the best part of the timing. Cool Kids’ Summer runs May 26 – September 8, 2026, so an early start date on this ticket lets you catch the final weeks before it ends. If you pick a start date between August 3 – September 8, you can still fold the seasonal fun into your trip.

The connection is even better than it looks. Bluey’s Wild World debuted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, one of the two parks on this ticket. Your Animal Kingdom day can include a stop at Conservation Station to play and dance with Bluey and Bingo. For the full rundown of what is new, see our complete guide to Cool Kids’ Summer 2026.

The Fine Print You Need to Know

Before you book, read these restrictions closely. They are easy to miss.

You must visit both EPCOT and Animal Kingdom. You cannot use both days at the same park.
The ticket is not valid at Magic Kingdom or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable.
The deal does not include separately priced events or activities.
Admission is subject to capacity closures and other standard restrictions.

Always confirm the current terms in the My Disney Experience app or on the official Disney World site before you buy, since details can change without notice.

Why EPCOT and Animal Kingdom Right Now

The timing works in your favor. Soarin’ Across America just opened in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. And, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is set to begin August 27, 2026. That means dozens of global food and drink booths, live entertainment, and festival merchandise during much of the ticket window. If you start your trip in late August or September, you can fold the festival right into your EPCOT day.

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you get some of the most immersive experiences at Walt Disney World. Think Pandora – The World of Avatar, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and the park’s animal trails. Not to mention, Bluey’s Wild World is happening now for Cool Kids Summer and doesn’t have an end date. It is a strong pairing with EPCOT for two very different park days.

Add a Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Night

This ticket does not include Magic Kingdom, but there is a fun workaround. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party runs on select nights from August 7 – October 31, 2026, and it lines up perfectly with your trip dates. The party is a separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom, so you can add a night and still get a taste of Magic Kingdom on this trip.

Here is how the party works:

Hours: 7:00 PM to midnight, with entry as early as 4:00 PM
Price: ranges from $119 – $229 plus tax, depending on the date
Park ticket: not required, since the party ticket covers your entry
What you get: trick-or-treating, the Boo-To-You parade, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, and Halloween fireworks

Popular dates sell out, so book early if you want a specific night. For dates and tips, see our Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party guide.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Stay at a Disney Resort and Get a Free Water Park Day

If you turn this into a resort stay, you can stack two more perks on top of the ticket.

First, Disney Resorts Collection hotel guests get free water park admission on their check-in day, included with the stay. This perk is valid for arrivals from May 26 – September 8, 2026, and covers either Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon or Disney’s Blizzard Beach, whichever is open. Check in between August 3 – September 8 and you can start your trip with a free water park day before your two park days even begin.

Second, Disney is promoting savings of up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotels for stays roughly between July 30 – October 3, 2026. Bundling the room deal with the $199 Disney World ticket can stretch your trip budget even further. Check the official site for the exact rooms and dates, since hotel availability varies.

Photo Credit: Disney

Is the $199 Disney World Ticket Worth It?

For a short trip focused on two parks, the value is strong. A single 1-day, 1-park ticket at Walt Disney World can run well over $100 on its own during peak dates. Getting two park days for a starting price of $199 plus tax beats buying two separate single-day tickets in most cases.

This deal makes the most sense if you are happy skipping Hollywood Studios on this trip and adding Magic Kingdom only through a party night. If you want all four parks, the 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket may fit your family better.

How to Book the $199 Disney World Ticket

You can book directly through Disney to reserve your start date, then plan your EPCOT and Animal Kingdom days within the 4-day window. Because this is a limited-time offer, lock in your dates early if your travel window is set.

Prefer help juggling the ticket, a resort room, and a party night? Book with your travel agent. A good agent can bundle the pieces, track room discounts, and handle the details so you do not have to. While you plan, browse the new Disney Springs restaurants for 2026, since Disney Springs is free to enter and makes an easy addition to a short trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the new Disney World 2-park ticket?

The new $199 Disney World ticket starts at $199 plus tax. It covers two days, one each at EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Which parks does the $199 Disney World ticket include?

It includes EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom only. It is not valid at Magic Kingdom or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

What are the valid dates for the ticket?

Start dates run August 3 – September 30, 2026. You must use both days within 4 days of your chosen start date.

Do I need a park reservation?

No. Park reservations are not required for this ticket, and there are no blockout dates.

Can I visit the same park both days?

No. You must visit EPCOT on one day and Animal Kingdom on the other. You cannot use both days at the same park.

Can I still see Cool Kids’ Summer with this ticket?

Yes, if you start early enough. Cool Kids’ Summer runs May 26 – September 8, 2026, so a start date between August 3 – September 8 lets you catch the final weeks, including Bluey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Can I add Magic Kingdom to this trip?

Not with this ticket directly. You can add a Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket for a select night from August 7 – October 31, 2026, which gets you into Magic Kingdom for the event.

Do I get a free water park day with this ticket?

Only if you stay at a Disney Resort hotel. Disney Resorts Collection guests get free water park admission on check-in day for arrivals from May 26 – September 8, 2026. The ticket on its own does not include a water park day.

Is the $199 Disney World ticket available to non-Florida residents?

Yes. Disney expanded this offer to all guests for 2026, so you do not need to be a Florida resident to buy it.

Soarin’ Across America at Disney World and Disneyland: Everything You Need to Know

News By Kim Fidler May 25, 2026 Tags: Disney California Adventure, Epcot, Soarin', Soarin' Across America No Comments

Soarin’ Across America at Disney World and Disneyland: Everything You Need to Know

One of Disney’s most beloved rides is getting an all-new film, and the timing could not be better. Soarin’ Across America is now open at EPCOT and coming soon to Disney California Adventure Park, taking guests on a breathtaking simulated hang-glider flight over some of the most iconic and beautiful places in the United States. If you have been thinking about a Disney trip this summer, this is a strong reason to book it.

Here is everything you need to know about the new Soarin’, including opening dates, what to expect, tips for riding, and how to plan your dining around it.

What Is Soarin’ Across America?

Soarin’ Across America is an all-new film created for the America250 celebration, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. It replaces the previous version of the attraction, Soarin’ Around the World, which took guests on a global journey across multiple continents.

The new version stays true to what makes Soarin’ so special. You will be lifted into a giant 180-degree, 80-foot IMAX dome in a hang glider-style seat and surrounded by stunning aerial footage of America. The ride includes wind effects, motion, and the signature scents that Soarin’ fans have always loved. What changes is the destination: this time, you are flying across the United States from sea to shining sea.

Walt Disney Imagineering captured more than a dozen breathtaking locations for the new flight, and the scope of the film is genuinely impressive. You will glide above iconic urban and natural wonders, from the rugged New England coastline and the radiant welcome of New York Harbor to the vast expanse of Grand Canyon West. The experience also features the autumn colors of the heartland, the beauty of the bayous, the great plains of the west, the northern wilderness, and sunlit island shores.

Disney has officially confirmed several scenes, and early preview riders have filled in the rest. The list below is in flight order. If you want to experience the ride fresh, skip ahead past the spoiler section.

Spoilers for Soarin’ Across America

SPOILER WARNING: the full Soarin’ Across America scene list is below.

New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty
New England coastline and Portland Head Light (Maine)
Mount Rushmore
The heartland in autumn
Louisiana bayou
The prairies
The great plains of the west
Grand Canyon West
The northern wilderness
Florida orange groves
Honolulu, Hawaii
EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth (the ride ends with an American flag projected onto it)

Tom Fitzgerald, creative director and chief storytelling executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, described the vision this way: “It’s a tapestry of urban wonders, natural beauty, and iconic locations that celebrate the spirit of the nation and the 250th anniversary of the United States.”

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Soarin’ Across America Opening Dates

Soarin’ Across America officially opens at EPCOT on May 26, 2026. At Disney California Adventure Park, Soarin’ Over California will continue to operate through July 1, with Soarin’ Across America opening the very next day on July 2, 2026.

If you are on the East Coast or visiting Walt Disney World this summer, you can ride it now. If you are heading to Disneyland Resort, mark July 2 as your target date.

Disney has described Soarin’ Across America as a limited-time experience, but no end date has been announced. Based on the scale of the America250 celebration and the significant investment in new footage and a new score, most Disney observers expect the attraction to run well into 2027.

What Is New About This Version of Soarin’?

Soarin’ Across America is the third major film version of the attraction and the first to focus exclusively on the United States. The ride system and experience format remain the same. What changes is the film, score, and scents.

A new musical arrangement by Bruce Broughton of the beloved Jerry Goldsmith Soarin’ themes underscores the adventure. Longtime fans of the original will appreciate that the classic melody they know is still in there, reimagined for this new journey.

In the Soarin’ queue at Walt Disney World, guests can put their knowledge of the United States to the test with an all-new trivia challenge. The Soarin’ Challenge Across America, created in collaboration with National Geographic, invites guests to discover facts about the states using content from beloved National Geographic titles including “50 States, 5,000 Ideas” and stunning photography from the National Geographic archives.

The scents have been updated to match the new American landscapes. Early riders noticed a grass scent in the prairie scene, a strong water smell in the Louisiana section, and a tropical flower for the Hawaii section.

Patrick Warburton returns as the pre-show flight attendant, now as Captain Patrick, who welcomes guests to this special iteration of the ride before handing off to a younger version of himself for the classic safety instructions.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Tips for Riding Soarin’ Across America

Getting the most out of Soarin’ comes down to a few key decisions before you ever step foot in line.

Choose the Right Seat

Request the top row, known as Row B1. The three rows are stacked vertically, and the top row gives you the most immersive experience with no feet dangling above you and the full dome filling your vision. Bottom row riders see feet from the row above, which breaks the illusion. Sitting in the center section also reduces image distortion, since the dome projection stretches at the edges and riders on the far sides see slightly warped images during certain scenes.

Ride Early or Use Lightning Lane

Soarin’ wait times already average 65 to 95 minutes during peak periods, and a new film will push those higher. Your best strategies are to ride during the first hour the park is open or to grab a Lightning Lane selection. Soarin’ Across America is available through Lightning Lane Multi Pass at both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure Park, and it is one of the most in-demand selections at both parks. Book it as early as possible when you enter the park.

At Walt Disney World, on-site hotel guests can take advantage of Early Entry, which gives you 30 minutes in the park before it opens to the general public. Soarin’ Across America participates in Early Entry beginning with its opening day, with on-site hotel guests able to enter starting at 8:30 AM. At Disneyland Resort, Early Entry for hotel guests ended on January 5, 2026. In its place, guests staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel receive one complimentary Lightning Lane Multi Pass entry per guest per stay, which can be used on Soarin’ Across America once it opens at Disney California Adventure Park on July 2.

Know What to Expect for Motion Sensitivity

Soarin’ is one of Disney’s more accessible thrill experiences. The motion is a gentle lift and tilt, not a spin or drop. Most guests with moderate motion sensitivity handle it well. The sensation is similar to hang-gliding rather than a roller coaster. However, the new film does involve some movement in the seats, so if you have had issues with simulator-style rides in the past, keep that in mind.

Do Not Skip the Queue Game (EPCOT Only)

The wait can feel long, but the new Soarin’ Challenge Across America trivia game in the queue at EPCOT makes it more entertaining. It is a fun way to spend the time and get your family into the spirit of the experience before you even board. This interactive queue experience is exclusive to EPCOT and is not part of the Soarin’ experience at Disney California Adventure Park.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Dining Near Soarin’ at EPCOT: The Land Pavilion

Soarin’ is located inside The Land pavilion at EPCOT, and that same building is home to two of the park’s most convenient dining options. If you are planning your day around riding Soarin’, these restaurants make it easy to combine a great meal with the attraction without having to cross the park.

Garden Grill Restaurant

Garden Grill is one of EPCOT’s most unique dining experiences and an absolute standout for families. It is a slowly rotating character dining restaurant on the upper level of The Land pavilion, directly above the Living with the Land attraction. As you eat, you get a bird’s-eye view of the greenhouse scenes from the ride below.

Mickey Mouse, Chip, Dale, and Pluto join guests in their harvest outfits for an all-you-care-to-enjoy family-style meal served at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some of the ingredients used in the restaurant are actually grown in The Land pavilion’s greenhouses.

Reservations at Garden Grill can be hard to come by, especially at peak times this summer. If Garden Grill is on your list, head to MouseDining.com to set up an alert so you are notified the moment a table opens up for your date and party size.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Sunshine Seasons

If you are looking for a quick bite before or after riding Soarin’, Sunshine Seasons is right there on the lower level of The Land pavilion. It is widely considered one of EPCOT’s best quick-service options, with a rotating menu that includes grain bowls, sandwiches, and fresh salads. It is a solid, affordable choice that does not require a reservation.

Dining Near Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure Park

Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure Park sits in the Grizzly Peak area of the park. The closest dining option is right next door.

Smokejumpers Grill

Smokejumpers Grill is the quick-service restaurant directly adjacent to Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure Park. The menu is classic American comfort food. You’ll find burgers, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese, fries, and onion rings, plus breakfast items in the morning and seasonal shakes. It is a convenient, low-key option that makes it easy to grab a meal before or after your flight. No reservation is required.

For guests looking for a table-service experience near Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure Park, Lamplight Lounge at Pixar Pier is a short walk away and is one of the most popular sit-down restaurants in the park. It features Pixar-themed decor, waterfront views of Pixar Pier, and a menu of creative American dishes and cocktails. Reservations are recommended and can be difficult to come by during busy summer weeks. MouseDining.com can alert you the moment a table opens at Lamplight Lounge for your date and party size.

Planning a Full Day at EPCOT Around Soarin’ Across America

Soarin’ fits naturally into a well-rounded EPCOT day. Here is how to think about it:

Rope drop: Head straight to Soarin’ first thing to beat the crowds, or use Early Entry if you are staying on property
Morning: Knock out other World Nature and World Celebration attractions like The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Test Track, or Guardians of the Galaxy
Midday: Grab lunch at Sunshine Seasons or use your Garden Grill reservation for a sit-down character meal
Afternoon and evening: Move into World Showcase for food, entertainment, and dining reservations

If you have not yet locked in your dining reservations for EPCOT, this is the time to do it. Summer at Disney World is one of the busiest stretches of the year, and popular restaurants fill up fast. MouseDining.com sends you an alert the moment a reservation becomes available at the restaurant, date, time, and party size you want, which takes the stress out of constantly refreshing the Disney app.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Soarin’ Across America open at Walt Disney World?

Soarin’ Across America opened at EPCOT on May 26, 2026.

When does Soarin’ Across America open at Disneyland?

Soarin’ Across America opens at Disney California Adventure Park on July 2, 2026.

Is Soarin’ Across America permanent?

Disney has confirmed it is a limited-time experience, but no end date has been announced. Based on the scale of the attraction and the America250 celebration, most expect it to remain at least through 2027. There is no rush, but there is also no reason to wait.

What happened to Soarin’ Around the World?

Soarin’ Around the World had its final day at EPCOT on May 13, 2026. The attraction closed May 14 for the transition and reopened as Soarin’ Across America on May 26. At DCA Soarin’ Over California runs through July 1, 2026 before Soarin’ Across America opens on July 2.

Is Soarin’ Across America available on Lightning Lane?

Yes. Soarin’ Across America is available through Lightning Lane Multi Pass at both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure Park. Given the added demand from a new film, grab yours early in the day for both locations.

What restaurants are near Soarin’ at EPCOT?

Garden Grill Restaurant and Sunshine Seasons are both located inside The Land pavilion alongside Soarin’. Garden Grill is a table-service character dining experience that requires reservations. Use MouseDining.com to get alerted when a table opens. Sunshine Seasons is quick-service and does not require a reservation.

What restaurants are near Soarin’ at Disney California Adventure Park?

Smokejumpers Grill is located directly next to Soarin’ and is a quick-service spot serving burgers, chicken sandwiches, and seasonal shakes. For a table-service option, Lamplight Lounge at Pixar Pier is a short walk away. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in the park, so use MouseDining.com to snag a hard-to-get reservation there.

What is the best seat on Soarin’?

Row B1, the top row in the center section, is widely considered the best seat. It gives you the fullest view of the dome with no obstructions and the least image distortion.

Is Soarin’ Across America good for kids?

Yes. Soarin’ is one of Disney’s most family-friendly attractions. The motion is gentle, the visuals are stunning, and there is no height restriction that affects most kids. The queue trivia game adds an extra layer of fun for the whole family while you wait.

2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival: Dates and Details

Special Events By Courtney Harris January 24, 2026 Tags: Disney Festivals, Disney Parks Blog, Disney World Events, Disney World Food, Disney World Planning, Disney World Seasonal Events, Disney World Spring, Epcot, EPCOT Festivals, EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival, EPCOT Outdoor Kitchens, EPCOT Topiaries, Family Travel Disney, Flower & Garden Festival 2026, Garden Rocks Concert Series, walt disney world No Comments

Spring in Florida is about to bloom brighter than ever! The 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival returns from March 4 to June 1, 2026, bringing fresh flavors, vibrant topiaries, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun across all of EPCOT.

Whether you’re strolling through lush gardens, tasting your way around Outdoor Kitchens, or singing along at Garden Rocks, this festival is the perfect way to celebrate the beauty of spring at Walt Disney World.

Family at EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival 2026

Topiaries, Gardens, and Exhibits

This year’s festival will surround you with whimsical character topiaries, breathtaking gardens, and beautifully designed exhibits throughout World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature, and World Showcase.

More than 60 topiaries from classic Disney favorites will be blooming across the park while over 31 gardens and floral displays will offer opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy the stunning horticulture Disney is known for.

Garden Rocks Concert Series

Get ready to jam along to live music at the Garden Rocks Concert Series in America Gardens Theatre, returning with an incredible mix of chart-topping artists and Orlando’s blossoming local talent. With performances every weekend, there’s always something new to enjoy.

2026 Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup

March 5-7 — The Music of ABBA (NEW)
March 8-9 — Simple Plan
March 13-14 — Blue October
March 15-16 — Billy Ocean
March 20-23 — THE ORCHESTRA starring former members of ELO & ELO Part II
March 27-28 — Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
March 29-30 — 38 Special
April 3-4 — Chubby Checker
April 5-6 — Sugar Ray
April 10-11 — Information Society (NEW)
April 12-13 — Rick Springfield
April 17-18 — Berlin
April 19-20 — The Commodores
April 24-25 — FireHouse (NEW)
April 26-27 — Air Supply
May 1-2 — A Flock of Seagulls
May 3-4 — Plain White T’s
May 8-9 — Katrina, formerly of Katrina & The Waves (NEW)
May 10-11 — 98 Degrees
May 15-16 — The Spinners
May 17-18 — Josiah Queen (NEW)
May 22-23 — Iam Tongi (NEW)
May 24-25 — A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce
May 29-30 — Queensrÿche
May 31-June 1 — Maverick City Music

Admission to see your favorite act is included with EPCOT park entry, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For those seeking guaranteed seating, dining packages are offered, allowing guests to enjoy a meal at select EPCOT restaurants before the show.

Family at 2026 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

Garden Rocks Dining Package

Relish palate pleasing cuisine topped off with a musical treat at this year’s EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. These sweet-as-honey dining packages pair fabulous food with toe-tappin’ tunes, giving you the best of both worlds: a delicious meal and guaranteed seating at the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Make your reservations starting on February 5 through the My Disney Experience app or the official Walt Disney World website.

What’s Included

Guests who book a Garden Rocks Concert Series Dining Package will enjoy:

An entrée and dessert or one (1) full buffet, plus a nonalcoholic or alcoholic beverage.
- The Spice Road Table package includes two small plates, shared tagine, shared dessert platter, and one (1) non-alcoholic beverage.
One (1) guaranteed seat per person to the Garden Rocks concert held the same day as your dining reservation.

It’s the perfect springtime night out: savor incredible flavors, then head over to America Gardens Theatre knowing your seat is waiting for you.

Food and Drinks at EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

Outdoor Kitchens

Food lovers, rejoice! The festival’s beloved Outdoor Kitchens return this year, serving fresh, garden-inspired flavors from around the world. With returning favorites and brand-new dishes, there’s something for every palate. Keep an eye out for the official Foodie Guide coming out on a later date.

Don’t forget to pick up your Festival Passport to explore the Garden Graze food stroll and collect your stamps along the way!

Butterflies at 2026 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

Fun for Kids of All Ages

This year’s festival features multiple family-friendly experiences that celebrate discovery, play, and the magic of springtime:

Spike’s PollenNation Exploration

Follow Spike the Bee across EPCOT’s blooming gardens in this charming scavenger hunt adventure.

Eggstravaganza Scavenger Hunt

A springtime favorite! Search for character-themed eggs hidden throughout World Showcase during this limited-time experience.

Butterfly Landing presented by AdventHealth

Step inside this enchanting walkthrough butterfly garden filled with dozens of species in every color of the rainbow.

More Magic in Bloom

There’s truly nothing like spring at EPCOT where every corner bursts with color, creativity, and culinary delights. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for even more festival details, including Outdoor Kitchen menus, and festival merchandise.

Perfect Pairings: Eating Our Way Through the Cookie Stroll 2025

Special Events By Courtney Harris December 15, 2025 Tags: #CookieStroll, #DisneyEat, #DisneyFood, #DisneyHolidays, #DisneySnacks, #EPCOTFestivalOfTheHolidays, #FestivalFood, #HolidayTreats, #WaltDisneyWorld, Epcot No Comments

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without trying a few new cookie recipes and scarfing down a couple of seasonal favorites. For me, the Hazelnut Linzer Cookie with Raspberry Jam and the Mickey-shaped Almond Black and White Cookie will always be on the list. And this year was no different as Nicole and I embarked on the Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth.

Grab your festival passport because this sweet stroll has 13 cookies to choose from with seasonal beverages available at each Holiday Kitchen.

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

How the Holiday Cookie Stroll Works

You’ve just entered EPCOT, and you’re ready to eat cookies all around the world — what should you do first? Grab a festival passport. It is the key to your stroll and on page 36, you’ll find a list of 13 delicious cookies that are available for this experience. The following page is where the stamps happen. With each cookie you purchase, you’ll receive the corresponding cookie stamp in the fun cookie cutouts.

By purchasing five cookies, your stamped page will be complete, and you will receive a fun surprise treat from the Holiday Sweets & Treats signifying that you completed the stroll. And trust me, if you enjoy baking your own holiday cookies at home, this one is perfect for you!

Now let’s begin…

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Ginger-Molasses Cookie with Cream Cheese Icing

New! Ginger-Molasses Cookie with Cream Cheese Icing

Our first stop of the stroll was the Ginger-Molasses Cookie with Cream Cheese Icing within CommuniCore Hall. Starting off strong with the perfect balance of spice and sweet, this new cookie is chewy and coated with a decadent amount of cream cheese icing.

Location: Experimental Prototype Cookies of Tomorrow (CommuniCore Hall)

Cookie Category and Recipe: Drop Cookie

This was just one of the three cookies available. If you tend to gravitate toward cookies with less icing, you’ll also find these options at the same Holiday Kitchen:

New! Prototype Cookie: Sugar Cookie with Orange-Cranberry Icing and Dark Chocolate
Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth Cookie

Our Suggested Pairing

Nicole suggested the Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. Frosted Gingerbread White Stout to increase the gingerbread and molasses flavors, and she was spot on because the brewing company says this seasonal pale is meant to be paired with holiday desserts like gingerbread cookies.

Cinnamon-Spiced Chocolate Crinkle Cookie

If you love chocolate, the Cinnamon-Spiced Chocolate Crinkle Cookie is the one for you. This rich crinkle cookie tastes like you’re biting into a brownie that’s been dusted with cinnamon.

Location: Nochebuena Cocina (between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion)

Cookie Category and Recipe: Drop Cookie

Nicole noted how it’s very soft when you first bite into the cookie and has a fudgy center that’s perfect for chocolate fans.

Bake Disney’s Holiday Cookies at Home

Many of the cookies mentioned in this story were recently featured in Cooking Up the Magic on the Disney Parks Blog. Check it out and grab the recipe for your favorite cookie!

Our Suggested Pairing

The Ponche Navideño is a warm non-alcoholic Christmas punch. This drink brings the tropics and the holiday together with apples, pears, guava, oranges, dried hibiscus, brown sugar, tamarind, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.

Hazelnut Linzer Cookie with Raspberry Jam

Now making our way around the World Showcase, the Linzer Cookie is a classic at the festival for a reason. This buttery, melt-in-your-mouth magic is enhanced with a spread of raspberry jam. And this year, you’ll notice the cookie has a new shape for its center cutout – the one and only, Mickey Mouse.

Location: Bavaria Holiday Kitchen (Germany Pavilion)

Cookie Category and Recipe: Cut-Out Cookie

Nicole also shared that it was a nice contrast after trying the Cinnamon-Spiced Chocolate Crinkle Cookie because the jam has a bright, tangy taste compared to the intense chocolate.

Our Suggested Pairing

We paired this shortbread cookie with Glühwein, a house-made hot spiced wine. This drink is wonderful on a chillier day and will make you feel like you’ve been transported into a Christmas market. These two together feel like a warm hug on a cold December day and will bring holiday cheer as you continue your stroll to the next stop.

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Mickey-shaped Almond Black and White Cookie

New! Mickey-shaped Almond Black and White Cookie

This cookie has a soft, cake-like texture and is now in the shape of Mickey Mouse. Split down the middle, it features both vanilla and chocolate fondant icing.

Location: L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen (between Morocco and France Pavilions)

Cookie Category: Drop Cookie

The great debate between Nicole and I was which side should be eaten first. Nicole prefers chocolate first, but I have to disagree. I hope you all try this one and let us know which side is your favorite because there is now a Disney Parks Blog divide.

However, there was one thing we both agreed on. The first bite must be the ears. We don’t make the rules; that’s just how it’s meant to be – like how you wouldn’t start a sandwich with a bite in the middle.

Our Suggested Pairing

We paired this one with an additional Mickey-shaped Almond Black and White Cookie. Just one cookie wasn’t enough!

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Maple Leaf Shortbread Cookie with Maple Buttercream

New! Maple Leaf Shortbread Cookie with Maple Buttercream

Brand new to the festival this year, we had to include the Maple Leaf Shortbread Cookie with Maple Buttercream on our list. This cookie features maple buttercream and has a nice sweet to salty ratio with the sea salt flakes on top.

Location: Yukon Holiday Kitchen (Canada Pavilion)

Cookie Category and Recipe: Shortbread Cookie

Our Suggested Pairing

We decided to double the maple by selecting the Playalinda Brewing Co. Maple Cookie Blonde Ale as our pairing for this cookie. These two together created the ultimate nutty, caramel experience we were looking for and might have been our favorite surprise pairing from the entire outing.

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Coffee-Mocha Cookie

Bonus Stop for the Coffee-Mocha Cookie

By now you might be slowing down, so why not add a boost of energy with a Coffee-Mocha Cookie topped with coffee-infused buttercream, cocoa nibs, and chocolate-covered espresso beans.

Location: Mele Kalikimaka Holiday Kitchen (Between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion)

Cookie Category and Recipe: Drop Cookie

Our Suggested Pairing

Instead of grabbing a beverage here, we decided to walk over to Holiday Sweets & Treats for our final pairing. They had a Festive Flight featuring Hot Cocoa by Joffrey’s that was screaming our names. Perfect for a group, you can taste three different hot cocoas including:

Christmas Sugar Cookie Hot Cocoa topped with whipped cream and sprinkles
Gingerbread Hot Cocoa topped with whipped cream and a gingerbread garnish
Cookie Butter Hot Cocoa topped with whipped cream and speculoos spice

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Prize

Holiday Cookie Stroll Prize

Congratulations! You made it to the end of the stroll with a bonus cookie or two. If you also decided to wrap up your stroll with the Festive Flight like me and Nicole, then you’re already in the right place.

At Holiday Sweets & Treats, show your festival passport with the five completed stamps to the cast member at the redemption window to claim your victory.

Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Spaceship Earth Gingerbread

Find Even More Sweetness This Season at EPCOT

The Holiday Cookie Stroll is just the start of your holiday celebration at the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. While you’re strolling through and trying cookies, be sure to check your festival passport and our 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Foodie Guide for even more holiday celebrations, traditions, and dishes from around the globe, now through December 30.

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