The Epcot Festival of the Arts just began last week, but we are already looking ahead to more fun! Disney just released details for the upcoming Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival! Here’s the scoop-
It may be winter according to the calendar, but spring is nearly blooming at Walt Disney World Resort. And nothing says springtime fun like the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival!
Mark your calendars as this year’s festival will begin on Feb. 28 and continue through May 27 for 90 days full of beautiful topiaries, inspirational gardens, delicious dishes and rockin’ music celebrating spring. From the tiniest tykes to the young at heart, there’s something for everyone!
Today we’re sharing more details, from new topiaries and acts coming to the Garden Rocks concert series, to a sneak peek at upcoming merchandise. Let’s dig in!
New Topiaries to Enjoy
Each spring, we look forward to the astounding topiaries our Disney horticulture cast creates for the festival.
For the first time, Groot takes root at EPCOT! The flora colossus from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy will appear near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery.
This year, more than 70 topiaries, featuring a delightful array of Disney characters as well as other figures and whimsical items, will fill the park. As part of the topiary magic, guests can also look forward to seeing everyone’s favorite dragon, Figment, in the newly opened World Celebration Gardens.
Also new this year, guests can look forward to viewing new topiaries from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Wish,” including Asha, Valentino and the Wishing Star, at the park’s main entrance. And in Mexico, we’re thrilled to share that Miguel and Dante from Disney Pixar’s “Coco” will take center stage!
Fresh Garden Rocks Concert Series
It’s time to dance and sing along to your favorites as the popular Garden Rocks concert series takes to the American Gardens Theatre stage daily during the festival. Featuring local and globally recognized acts, there’s something for everyone.
This year, we’ll welcome new groups, including Modern English, Crowder, Lit, and Monsieur Perine. And for the first time, Raul Acosta & Oro Solido will share the stage with Magic Juan, then return the next day with Luisito Ayala and The Puerto Rican Power Band in a series of unforgettable performances.*
Garden Rocks Dining Packages Open Feb. 6
To guarantee priority seating for your preferred performances, be sure to check out Dining Packages, available at seven fabulous EPCOT restaurants:
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
- Biergarten Restaurant
- Coral Reef Restaurant
- Garden Grill Restaurant
- Rose & Crown Dining Room
- Le Cellier Steakhouse
- Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Brews & Barbecue (same-day, in-person walk-up packages only)
For more information, including pricing and availability, visit DisneyWorld.com. Packages go on sale beginning Feb. 6.
Flavor Abounds at Outdoor Kitchens
It wouldn’t be an EPCOT festival without innovative and delicious dishes and drinks to savor! Stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for the official Foodie Guide to EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival as we dish on all the new flavors coming to this year’s event, but in the meantime, we’re thrilled to share that many guest favorites will also return to Outdoor Kitchens located throughout the park.
Personally, I can’t wait to dig into Chicken & Waffles at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by the National Honey Board! Also returning: the Muffuletta Panini at Magnolia Terrace and the Chocolate Whisky Cake at Northern Bloom.
Inspiration and Play: There’s Something for Everyone
Looking for interactive fun? You’ve come to the right place!
At this year’s festival, the whole family can enjoy two seasonal scavenger hunts. Throughout the festival, follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail where he’s “buzzing” to collect nectar from all the beautiful gardens with Spike’s Pollination Exploration. And for a limited time, you can also hop around World Showcase for the Egg-stravaganza Hunt! Twelve beautiful, bunny-inspired eggs will be placed throughout the park; can you find them all?
Both scavenger hunt maps will be available for purchase while supplies last. Once your journey is complete – whether or not you find all the items – you can redeem your map at Disney Traders, Creations Shop or World Traveler at International Gateway for a special surprise.**
Also back this year, Butterfly Landing Presented by AdventHealth offers guests the chance to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most beautiful pollinators – butterflies! This walkthrough butterfly house highlights the life cycle of butterflies and contains valuable pollinator gardens.
At Blossoms of Fragrance Presented by Scentsy, follow your nose to create lasting memories with the help of unforgettable fragrances.
Looking for a place to get a little energy out? At Camp Get Out N’ Play Garden Presented by OFF!, families can explore a camp-themed garden where kiddos can jump, play, climb and explore this area created just for them.
The Latest Merchandise Collections Are Blooming
Celebrate your visit to the festival with official event merchandise. Available at Festival Markets and Creations Shop, you won’t want to miss these charming items while supplies last.
Spread a little sunshine everywhere you go with adorable Orange Bird apparel, accessories, garden decor and more. I can’t wait to take home one of everything!
If the characters from “Coco” capture your fancy, you’ll want to “seize the moment” with headwear, home decor and apparel inspired by this beloved classic.
Fluttering into the spotlight at the 2024 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival, the Butterfly Collection stars Minnie Mouse in a beautiful, flowery assortment.
And for our Annual Passholders, there’s a collection of merch featuring Spike the Bee that you won’t want to miss!
Can’t make it to the event? Select festival merchandise will also be coming to shopDisney March 4!
So, summon your flower power, because everything will be coming up roses at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival before you know it!
*Entertainment subject to change without notice.
**Redemption valid through May 27 or while supplies last.
You may also enjoy: Foodie Guide: EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2024
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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