Your Guide to Epcot Festivals for 2021 (and beyond) | magicintheplanning.com

Your Guide to Epcot Festivals for 2024: The Food & Wine Festival Begins August 29!

|

Epcot festivals have become incredibly popular year-round, offering a wide array of unique food and entertainment options that locals absolutely love. However, if you’re not a regular visitor to Walt Disney World, they can seem a little daunting. Wondering if you should plan your trip around one of these festivals? Well, we’ve got all the information you need! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you can expect from the Epcot festivals in 2024 and beyond.

 


*This post may contain affiliate links. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Planning a Disney World vacation in 2024? Be sure to check out our guide to all that the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer this year including the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the return of the Disney Dining Plan, and more!


 

What You Need to Know About All Epcot Festivals

All Epcot Festivals feature food and beverage booths throughout the park. You will find temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent booths throughout Epcot that feature exclusive menu items for each festival. Menus are released shortly before each festival and typically offer unique food and drink options that aren’t available at any other time of the year.

Typically, there is a feature show at America Gardens Theatre for each of the festivals, and each show typically has an associated dining package that guarantees admission. (But due to popularity, arriving early may still be your best bet at getting a good seat!)

Every festival offers unique entertainment, activities, and even merchandise throughout the park. Some activities are free, while others do require an additional fee. One activity to take note of is a paid scavenger hunt. Maps can be purchased (usually less than $10), and guests then search the park for items. Your completed map can be exchanged for a small treat or item.

 

Tips and Tricks

Takumi-Tei in Epcot | magicintheplanning.comEpcot festivals are quite popular with the locals, which means that evenings and weekends will be busy. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to visit Epcot during the week and make the most of your daytime hours. You may also want to avoid the first and last weekends of the event as these tend to be more crowded.

Also, keep in mind that some guests may engage in a bit more alcohol consumption, especially during the Food & Wine Festival, as many of the booths offer unique drinks and wine tastings. For some, this may not be a big deal, but for families traveling with younger children, it may be something you want to consider.

 

Epcot International Festival of the Arts

Epcot Festival of the Arts | magicintheplanning.com

Offering a multitude of engaging activities, the International Festival of the Arts stands out among other Epcot festivals. Alongside the delectable artistic culinary delights, attendees can participate in art workshops, seize photo opportunities throughout the park, witness captivating performance art, and explore noteworthy galleries showcasing stunning artwork available for purchase.

 

Disney on Broadway Concert Series

The Disney on Broadway concert series is a major attraction at the Festival of the Arts. It takes place at the American Garden Theatre, situated in the World Showcase’s American Adventure pavilion. Each artist pair presents a unique set list featuring songs from their Broadway shows, as well as some additional Disney musical numbers.

Not all shows are the same. Some artists play popular songs from famous shows, while others perform lesser-known numbers. If you’re at Epcot when different performers are playing (they change every few days), it’s worth catching multiple shows.

During this time of the year, the smaller crowds make it much easier to secure a seat for concerts compared to the popular Candlelight Processional during the holidays. If you don’t really mind where you sit, you can usually just walk up and get a spot right before the show starts. But if you want to be up close, it’s best to line up 30-45 minutes early or go for one of the dining packages for an even better view.

The Disney on Broadway Concert Series will run daily at 5:30, 6:45, & 8:00 PM at the American Garden Theatre. Here’s a look at this year’s schedule:

January

  • Caissie Levy (Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen): January 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22 and 23
  • Gavin Lee (Beauty and the Beast) and Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid): January 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 24 and 25
  • Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King): January 26, 28 and 29
  • Josh Strickland (Tarzan) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King): January 27, 30 and 31

February

  • Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King): February 1, 3, 5 and 6
  • Josh Strickland (Tarzan) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King): February 2, 4, 7 and 8
  • Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and Michael James Scott (Aladdin): February 9, 11, 12, 15, 18 and 19
  • Bradley Gibson (The Lion King) and Shoba Narayan (Aladdin): February 10, 13, 14, 16, 17 and 19

 

Disney on Broadway Dining Packages

If you want a guaranteed seat without having to arrive too early, you can purchase a Dining Package. Dining Packages give you priority seating at one of the concerts, although, for most concerts, they are not necessary. The seats for these packages are located in the very first few rows of the theater. And unless you want the very front-row center, there isn’t any need to line up early.

A meal at participating restaurants includes the following: an appetizer, entrée, and dessert OR one full buffet/family-style meal (where applicable) as well as a non-alcoholic beverage. The exception to this is Spice Road Table, which includes 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter, and a nonalcoholic beverage.

  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Norway Pavilion) – Adult: $66 (B) $78 (L/D) | Child: $42 (B) $50 (L/D)
  • Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) – Adult: $60 | Child: $34
  • Coral Reef Restaurant (The Living Seas) – Adult: $73 | Child: $29
  • Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) – Adult: $58 (B) $73 (L/D) | Child: $37 (B) $47 (L/D)
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) – Adult: $99 | Child: $39
  • Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (American Adventure Pavilion) – Adults: $36 (same-day packages only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (United Kingdom Pavilion) – Adult: $61 | Child: $26
  • Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion) – Adult: $50 | Child: $21

*Prices listed above do not include tax or gratuity. Child prices are for those ages 3-9. B = Breakfast, L/D = Lunch and Dinner

**Regal Eagle Smokehouse does offer same-day dining packages, but they are subject to availability. It’s also important to note that Dining Packages are only offered Friday through Monday. Guests who participate will be able to enter America Gardens Theatre via a separate queue and will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating is guaranteed for those who purchased a dining package. 

 

Additional Festivities

Food Studios – There will be 16 “Food Studios” featuring a wide variety of artistic food and drink options. And while all of the Epcot festivals feature food booths, special attention to detail and presentation is a big part of the Festival of the Arts.

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Just like the Cookie Stroll at the Festival of the Holidays, the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine gives you a foodie reward. Try 5 delicious and vibrant dishes (and collect 5 stamps in your festival passport) to win. And the best part? You don’t have to do it all in one day. As long as you finish before the festival ends, you’ll score the prize!

Visual Art in Performance – Watch as a talented artist paints beloved Disney characters and scenes right in front of you. Featured artists include Trevor Carlton (January 12-15, 18-21, 25-28) and Stephen Fishwick (February 1-4, 8-11, 15-19). This experience will take place in World Showcase Plaza, Thursday through Sunday throughout the festival, as well as on Monday, January 15, and Monday, February 19, 2024.

Art Defying Gravity – Experience awe-inspiring showcases of strength, grace, acrobatics, and agility. Performances take place in World Showcase Plaza, Saturday through Wednesday throughout the festival.

Musical Performances – Experience daily harmonious musical performances in World Showcase Plaza. Featured musicians include Nicholas Marks on guitar, Victor Espinola on harp, Don Black on saxophone, and Dominic Gaudious on digeridoo.

Animation Academy – Learn how to draw a Disney Character during this session led by an animator! This experience takes place in America Gardens Theatre at 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM daily. Classes are fast-paced and may not be ideal for small children. They are also quite popular, so be sure to arrive about 30 minutes earlier than your desired session.

Paint-By-Number Mural – Found in World Nature on the walkway from the Imagination! pavilion toward Test Track, guests are able to add to the mural from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Photo Opportunities – There are numerous photo opportunities throughout Epcot including fun life-sized paintings and PhotoPass Magic Shots. Find these step-in frames around EPCOT:

  • International Gateway: Luncheon of the Boating Party – Pierre-Auguste Renoir
  • The American Adventure: Washington Crossing the Delaware – Emanuel Leutze
  • Between Italy Pavilion and Germany Pavilion: Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci
  • Between Italy Pavilion and Germany Pavilion: The Scream – Edvard Munch
  • Mexico Pavilion: An Homage to Frida Kahlo
  • Bridge to World Showcase: Wish Storybook
  • Italy Pavilion Courtyard: Teatime with Penguins
  • Bridge to World Showcase: Forest Scene from Sleeping Beauty

Kids Chalk Art – Kids will be able to leave their own chalk artwork from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM at “Kid’s Chalk Art” located at the bridge to World Showcase Plaza.

Chalk Art Galleries – Located along the bridge to World Showcase Plaza, watch chalk artists at work.

Figment’s Brush with the Masters – This Figment-themed scavenger hunt takes guests on a tour of World Showcase while teaching all about art. Every time you find the Figment-themed picture frame, you add the corresponding sticker to the pavilion on your map. Once completed, you simply return your map to Disney Traders or World Traveler for an artful surprise. (Purchase your map and stickers for $9.99 plus tax at Creations Shop, Port of Entry, or World Traveler.)

Merchandise – The 2024 Festival of the Arts will feature uniquely designed merchandise as this has become a staple of every Epcot Festival throughout the year.

Be sure to visit our Guide to the Epcot International Festival of the Arts for more detailed information!

 

Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

Goofy Topiary at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival | Magic in the PlanningThis festival features beautifully designed interactive gardens as well as a variety of living sculptures shaped like your favorite Disney characters. You will also find plenty of unique food options, live entertainment, and family-friendly exhibits.

 

Garden Rocks Concert Series

The Garden Rocks Concert Series is a highlight of the Flower & Garden Festival at Epcot. From February 28 onwards, this concert series entertains visitors throughout the festival. The America Gardens Theater hosts daily concerts, which can be enjoyed for free with a valid theme park admission and park reservation. However, the lineup of acts varies depending on the day you visit Epcot.

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, local Orlando talent takes the stage, while internationally recognized artists perform on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. It’s typically not too hard to snag a seat to one of the concerts as long as you arrive about 30 minutes before the show. Or, if you prefer, you can avoid the line (and wait) altogether by booking one of the Garden Rocks Dining Packages.

The Garden Rocks Concert Series runs daily at 5:30, 6:45, & 8:00 PM at the American Garden Theatre. Here’s a look at this year’s lineup!

  • The Vybe: February 28 and 29
  • Jason Scheff: March 1 and 2
  • Richard Marx: March 3 and 4
  • Evolution Motown: March 5, 6 and 7
  • Berlin: March 8 and 9
  • Rick Springfield: March 10 and 11
  • Dian Diaz: March 12, 13 and 14
  • Modern English (NEW): March 15 and 16
  • Commodores: March 17 and 18
  • Foreigners Journey: March 19, 20 and 21
  • The Orchestra: March 22, 23, 24 and 25
  • Funkafied: March 26, 27 and 28
  • Mike DelGuidice: March 29 and 30
  • Pointer Sisters: March 31, April 1st
  • The Female Collective: April 2, 3, and 4
  • Blue October: April 5 and 6
  • Crowder (NEW): April 7 and 8
  • Hooligans: April 9, 10 and 11
  • Jo Dee Messina: April 12 and 13
  • A Flock of Seagulls: April 14 and 15
  • M-80’s: April 16, 17 and 18
  • Plain White T’s: April 19, 20, 21 and 22
  • Champagne Orchestra: April 23, 24 and 25
  • Starship Featuring Mickey Thomas: April 26 and 27
  • Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone: April 28 and 29
  • Southbound: April 30, May 1 and 2
  • Monsieur Periné: May 3
  • Raul Acosta & Oro Solido with Magic Juan: May 4
  • Raul Acosta & Oro Solido with Luisito Ayala and The Puerto Rican Power Band: May 5
  • Fonseca (NEW): May 6
  • Gilly & The Girl Band: May 7, 8 and 9
  • Simple Plan : May 10, 11, 12 and 13
  • Element: May 14, 15 and 16
  • The Spinners: May 17 and 18
  • Sister Hazel: May 19 and 20
  • Epic: May 21, 22 and 23
  • Lit (NEW): May 24 and 25
  • Casting Crowns: May 26 and 27

 

Garden Rocks Dining Packages

If you want a guaranteed seat without having to arrive too early, you can purchase a Dining Package. Dining Packages give you priority seating at one of the concerts, although, for most concerts, they are not necessary. The seats for these packages are located in the very first few rows of the theater. And unless you want the very front-row center, there isn’t any need to line up early. *It is worth noting that these packages are typically available Fridays through Mondays only.

A meal at participating restaurants includes the following: an appetizer, entrée, and dessert OR one full buffet/family-style meal (where applicable) as well as a non-alcoholic beverage. The exception to this is Spice Road Table, which includes 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter, and a nonalcoholic beverage.

  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Norway Pavilion) – Adult: $66 (B) $78 (L/D) | Child: $42 (B) $50 (L/D)
  • Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) – Adult: $60 | Child: $34
  • Coral Reef Restaurant (The Living Seas) – Adult: $73 | Child: $29
  • Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) – Adult: $58 (B) $73 (L/D) | Child: $37 (B) $47 (L/D)
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) – Adult: $99 | Child: $39
  • Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (American Adventure Pavilion) – Adults: $36 (same-day packages only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (United Kingdom Pavilion) – Adult: $61 | Child: $26
  • Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion) – Adult: $50 | Child: $21

*Prices listed above do not include tax or gratuity. Child prices are for those ages 3-9. B = Breakfast, L/D = Lunch and Dinner

**Regal Eagle Smokehouse does offer same-day dining packages, but they are subject to availability. It’s also important to note that Dining Packages are only offered Friday through Monday. Guests who participate will be able to enter America Gardens Theatre via a separate queue and will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating is guaranteed for those who purchased a dining package. 

 

Additional Festivities

Topiary Displays – Discover beautifully crafted topiary sculptures of beloved Disney characters located throughout the park.

Mickey and Friends Topiaries at Epcot | Magic in the Planning

Exhibits & Gardens – Every year, Disney installs several large, beautiful gardens and exhibits. We will keep you posted as Disney announces all that 2024 will have to offer.

Garden Graze – The Garden Graze is an enjoyable activity to enhance your experience at the Festival Kitchens. In your festival Passport, you can collect stamps by purchasing certain items. Once you have accumulated 5 stamps, head to Pineapple Promenade to receive a special Festival-exclusive treat. Remember to complete this before the festival ends.

Merchandise – The 2024 Flower and Garden Festival will feature uniquely designed exclusive merchandise available for purchase throughout the park.

Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration Scavenger Hunt – Scavenger hunts at the World Showcase are a blast for families and have become quite popular in recent years. Not only do they keep the kids entertained, but they also take you to cool hidden spots. Plus, when you finish the hunt, you get a special festival-themed prize. Don’t worry if you don’t finish the whole hunt, you can still grab your prize. Just make sure to pick it up before the festival ends.

Egg-Stravaganza Scavenger Hunt – This Easter-themed scavenger hunt will be available while supplies last. Guests will be able to hunt for Disney characters on oversized eggs throughout World Showcase, and then trade their completed maps for a special prize.

Photo Opportunities – There are numerous PhotoPass opportunities near some of the topiaries as well as exclusive Magic Shots.

Be sure to visit our Guide to the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival for more detailed information!

 

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Spaceship Earth in Epcot | magicintheplanning.com

Undoubtedly one of the most popular festivals, this event typically features over 25 food and beverage booths (compared to under 20 for the other festivals). And as we stated earlier, be prepared for local crowds as many come to “eat and drink their way around the world.”

 

Eat to the Beat Concert Series

The popular Eat to the Beat Concert Series is returning to the America Gardens Theatre stage. This year’s shows will run from August 28 to November 18, 2024, and showtimes are at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM.

Here’s a look at this year’s lineup:

  • August 29th: The Finesse Party Band
  • August 30th-31st: The Fray
  • September 1st-2nd: Sugar Ray
  • September 3rd-5th: The Finesse Party Band
  • September 6th-7th: Hoobastank
  • September 8th-9th: Yellowcard — NEW
  • September 10th-12th: The Hooligans
  • September 13th-14th: Tiffany
  • September 15th-16th: MercyMe
  • September 17th-19th: Foreigners Journey
  • September 20th-21st: Sheila E.
  • September 22nd-23rd: The Wanted — NEW
  • September 24th-26th: Dian Diaz
  • September 27th: Luis Figueroa
  • September 28th-29th: Mau Y Ricky — NEW
  • September 30th: Jesse & Joy — NEW
  • October 1st-3rd: Latin Ambition
  • October 4th-5th: Aloe Blacc — NEW
  • October 6th-7th: Joey Fatone & Friends
  • October 8th-10th: Funkafied
  • October 11th-12th: We the Kings
  • October 13th-14th: Switchfoot
  • October 15th-17th: Gilly and the Girl Band
  • October 18th-19th: David Archuleta — NEW
  • October 20th-21st: Billy Ocean
  • October 22nd-24th: Hayfire
  • October 25th-28th: Hanson
  • October 29th-31st: Evolution Motown
  • November 1st-2nd: Haley Reinhart featuring Emily Estefan, Casey Abrams and Janel Parrish — NEW
  • November 3rd-4th: Boyz II Men
  • November 5th-7th: Sugar Vibe
  • November 8th-9th: Magic! — NEW
  • November 10th-11th: Parmalee — NEW
  • November 12th-14th: The M-80’s
  • November 15th-16th: Smash Mouth
  • November 17th-18th: 98 Degrees

 

Eat to the Beat Dining Packages

Secure a guaranteed seat to an Eat to the Beat concert by simply purchasing a dining package at select participating dining locations throughout Epcot. A meal at participating restaurants includes the following: an appetizer, entrée, and dessert OR one full buffet/family-style meal (where applicable) as well as a non-alcoholic beverage. The exception to this is Spice Road Table, which includes 2 small plates, a shared dessert platter, and a nonalcoholic beverage.

  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Norway Pavilion) – Adult: $72 (B) $84 (L/D) | Child: $42 (B) $50 (L/D)
  • Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) – Adult: $66 | Child: $34
  • Coral Reef Restaurant (The Living Seas) – Adult: $73 | Child: $29
  • Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) – Adult: $64 (B) $79 (L/D) | Child: $37 (B) $47 (L/D)
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) – Adult: $99 | Child: $39
  • Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (American Adventure Pavilion) – Adults: $36 | Child: $21 (same-day packages only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (United Kingdom Pavilion) – Adult: $61 | Child: $26
  • Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion) – Adult: $56 | Child: $21

*Prices listed above do not include tax or gratuity. Child prices are for those ages 3-9. B = Breakfast, L/D = Lunch and Dinner

**Regal Eagle Smokehouse does offer same-day dining packages, but they are subject to availability. It’s also important to note that Dining Packages are only offered Friday through Monday. Guests who participate will be able to enter America Gardens Theatre via a separate queue and will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating is guaranteed for those who purchased a dining package.

 

Additional Festivities

While we don’t have details yet for 2024, here’s a look at some of last year’s activities:

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt Take part in a Ratatouille-inspired adventure at the festival. Kids of all ages can join a scavenger hunt to find Remy. Simply purchase a map and stickers from designated merchandise locations including Disney Traders, Port of Entry, Creations Shop, World Traveler at International Gateway, and Festival Merchandise Kiosks. Explore World Showcase to find hidden Remy statuettes and match the corresponding stickers on your map. Once you’ve completed the scavenger hunt, go to Creations Shop, Disney Traders, or World Traveler at International Gateway to receive a special surprise from Chef Remy!

Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit – To participate in the pursuit, simply visit select merchandise locations such as Disney Traders, Creations Shop, Port of Entry, World Traveler at International Gateway, and Festival Merchandise Kiosks. Purchase a game board and stickers, then embark on a fun adventure to find hidden decorative pumpkins themed to Disney characters. Once discovered, place the corresponding stickers on your board. If you choose not to hunt for pumpkins, you can still return your game board to Disney Traders or World Traveler for a “spooky” surprise.

Emile’s Fromage Montage – Indulge in a delectable food journey showcasing a wide range of cheesy delights at the Global Marketplaces. Obtain a Festival Passport, buy five of these scrumptious items to earn stamps, and receive an exclusive redemption prize at Shimmering Sips.

Exclusive Festival Merchandise – This year’s merchandise includes the Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Picnic Collection, the Disney Encanto Collection, the Figment Annual Passholder Collection, and the Festival Event Logo Collection (apparel, accessories, kitchen essentials, and more!)

Wine & Dine Half Marathon – Also taking place in November as part of this festival is the Wine & Dine Half Marathon. This year’s event will take place November 2-5 and will feature a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and the Disney Two Course Challenge (10K and Half Marathon). Virtual options are available as well!

Be sure to visit our Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival for more detailed information!

 

Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

  • Dates for 2024: November 29 – December 30
  • Menu for 2023 (menu for 2024 has yet to be announced)

Have you ever wondered what it was like to celebrate the holidays elsewhere around the world? Featuring traditions from around the globe, including some incredible cuisine and holiday treats, this festival is certainly to put you in the holiday spirit.

 

Festival of the Holidays Menu

It wouldn’t be an Epcot Festival without authentic food and beverages from around the world! While an official detailed menu has yet to be released for 2024, we do have a list of Holiday Kitchens that were featured in 2023.

  • American Holiday Table – American Adventure Pavilion (traditional dishes reminiscent of “grandma’s cooking”)
  • Bavaria Holiday Kitchen – Germany Pavilion (heartwarming holiday dishes and beverages)
  • Bubbles & Brine – Near Port of Entry (succulent seafood that pairs beautifully with Champagne)
  • Char & Chop – Near Disney Traders (gourmet meats)
  • Holiday Hearth Desserts – The Odyssey Pavilion (holly jolly desserts, hot cocoa, and more)
  • Holiday Sweets & Treats – Near Port of Entry (desserts and festive sips)
  • L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen – Between Morocco and France Pavilions (classic deli noshes with a side of New York flair)
  • Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen – Mexico Pavilion (Mexican-inspired food, drinks, and dancing)
  • Le Marché de Noël Holiday Kitchen – France Pavilion (food, wine, and specialty drinks)
  • Nochebuena Cocina – Near Test Track (dishes packed with bold Latin flavors)
  • Shanghai Holiday Kitchen – China Pavilion (popular plates and potables from the China Pavilion)
  • Shi Wasu Holiday Kitchen – Japan Pavilion (festive dishes and drinks)
  • Swirled Showcase – Near Port of Entry (frozen treats and beverages)
  • Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina – Morocco Pavilion (kebabs and cocktails)
  • Tuscany Holiday Kitchen – Italy Pavilion (seasonal Italian food and beverages)
  • Wine & Wedge – Near Disney Traders (artisanal cheeses and wine)
  • Yukon Holiday Kitchen – Canada Pavilion (food and drinks from the Great White North)

Additional Locations:

  • Funnel Cake – Between the American Adventure Pavilion and Japan Pavilion (mini funnel cake topped with peppermint ice cream, chocolate whipped cream and crushed peppermint)
  • Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company – Throughout EPCOT (selection of coffees, plus special holiday treats)
  • Refreshment Outpost – Between the China and Germany Pavilions (snacks and beverages to go)
  • Refreshment Port – Showcase Plaza (comfort foods and festival specialties)

 

Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional is a highly renowned event at the Festival of Holidays that attracts families year after year. Located at the outdoor American Gardens Theatre in the World Showcase’s American section, this cherished tradition features celebrity narrators presenting the Christmas Story. Accompanied by a remarkable 50-piece orchestra and a large choir, the performance is truly captivating. Lasting for about 40 minutes, the show typically occurs three times daily at 5:15, 7:00, and 8:30 PM.

While admission is free, obtaining a seat can be challenging due to its immense popularity. If you have your heart set on seeing the show, we strongly encourage you to consider purchasing a Dining Package for guaranteed seating. Without a Dining Package ticket, your only option to attend the show is by trying for a standby seat, which may involve waiting in line for up to 2 hours or even longer. However, even if you have a dining package, during peak times or when popular narrators are scheduled, it is advisable to arrive early since the seating is not assigned with the package.

Here’s a look at last year’s narrator lineup:

  • Chrissy Metz (NEW): November 24-25
  • Luis Fonsi (NEW): November 26-27
  • Ann-Margret (NEW): November 28-29
  • Simu Liu: November 30-December 2
  • John Stamos: December 3-5
  • Neil Patrick Harris: December 6-8
  • Marlee Matlin: December 9-11
  • Brendan Fraser (NEW): December 12-14
  • Eva Longoria (NEW): December 15-16
  • Joey McIntyre (NEW): December 17-18
  • Sterling K. Brown (NEW): December 19-20
  • Jordan Fisher (NEW): December 21-23
  • Steven Curtis Chapman: December 24-26
  • Audra McDonald (NEW): December 27-28
  • Lisa Ling: December 29-30

 

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages

Rose & Crown Dining Room in Epcot | magicintheplanning.com

One of the best ways to make sure you get a seat at the Candlelight Processional is by booking a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. This package includes a delicious meal and a ticket for a guaranteed seat at the show. Depending on where you choose to eat, prices for adults in 2023 ranged from $55 to $104, while children’s prices were between $24 and $53. Here’s a look at what 2023 had to offer:

  • Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Norway Pavilion) – Adult: $71 (B) $83 (L/D) | Child: $45 (B) $53 (L/D)
  • Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) – Adult: $65 | Child: $37
  • Coral Reef Restaurant (The Living Seas) – Adult: $78 | Child: $32
  • Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) – Adult: $63 (B) $78 (L/D) | Child: $40 (B) $50 (L/D)
  • Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) – Adult: $104 | Child: $42
  • Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (American Adventure Pavilion) – Adults: $41 (same-day packages only)
  • Rose & Crown Dining Room (United Kingdom Pavilion) – Adult: $66 | Child: $29
  • Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion) – Adult: $55 | Child: $24

*Prices listed above do not include tax or gratuity. Child prices are for those ages 3-9. B = Breakfast, L/D = Lunch and Dinner

**Regal Eagle Smokehouse does offer same-day dining packages, but they are subject to availability. Keep in mind that while your seat is guaranteed, your specific seat location is not. You will still want to line up early if you have a specific place you’d like to sit. Also, your performance is determined by the time of day you have your dining reservation, and you aren’t able to use your guaranteed seating privilege at any show other than the one assigned to you.

 

Additional Festivities

Disney has yet to announce everything returning (or being introduced) at this year’s Festival of the Holidays, but here’s a look at some of last year’s festivities.

Living with the Land: Glimmering Greenhouses – The interior of Living with the Land will be adorned with decorations, and visitors can immerse themselves in the festive ambiance.

Santa Claus – Guests will be able to meet Santa Claus at the Odyssey Pavilion.

World Showcase Storytellers – Returning for 2024, the World Showcase Storytellers proudly presented diverse holiday traditions from around the globe including Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year, and more.

Holiday Cookie Stroll – The Holiday Cookie Stroll, first introduced in 2018, will return in 2024. This exciting festivity allows guests to sample delicious cookies from various countries throughout World Showcase. To participate, purchase cookies from designated “Cookie Stroll” spots and receive a stamp for each one. Collect 5 stamps throughout the festival (over multiple days if needed) and receive a complimentary specialty cookie.

Joyful! A Celebration of the Season – This amazing performance combines Gospel and R&B vocals to celebrate both Kwanzaa and Christmas. It’s been a must-see at the Festival of the Holidays for so long, and being right at the entrance of the World Showcase makes it the ultimate holiday experience for guests.

“Olaf’s Holiday Tradition” Scavenger Hunt – This popular scavenger hunt will be back in 2024. To join in the fun, simply purchase a map from various shops like Creations Shop, Disney Traders, and World Traveler in Epcot. As you explore, keep an eye out for iconic traditions and add special stickers to your map. Once completed, return your map to Creations Shop, Disney Traders, or World Traveler at the International Gateway to receive your prize. Remember, you will likely have until December 31 to exchange your map and claim your prize.

Be sure to visit our Guide to the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays for more detailed information!

 

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the Epcot Festivals! Be sure to visit my step-by-step guide to start planning your next Walt Disney World Vacation!

 

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts