If your idea of the perfect Disney vacation includes incredible food, live entertainment, and discovering flavors from around the world, it’s time to start planning. Walt Disney World has officially shared the first details for the 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, and this year’s event is shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration of cuisine, culture, and fun.
From returning Global Marketplaces and fan-favorite scavenger hunts to exciting merchandise and the always-popular Eat to the Beat Concert Series, there’s plenty for Disney fans to look forward to this fall.
EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Returns August 27
The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will run from August 27 through November 21, 2026, giving guests nearly three months to experience one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved annual festivals.
Since its debut in 1996, the festival has become a must-visit event for Disney fans, food lovers, and anyone looking to experience international flavors while exploring EPCOT.
Global Marketplaces Return
While Disney hasn’t released the complete list of Global Marketplaces or menus just yet, they did provide a preview of several returning favorites.
Guests can once again enjoy:
- Street Corn-style Chicken Dumplings from Gyozas of the Galaxy
- Grilled Bushberry-Spiced Shrimp Skewer from Australia
- Kirschwasser Torte from The Alps Marketplace
Disney also confirmed that some Global Marketplaces will open in phases throughout the festival, with a full Foodie Guide arriving closer to opening day.
Fan-Favorite Activities Are Back
One of the biggest traditions during the festival is Emile’s Fromage Montage.
Guests can purchase qualifying cheese-inspired dishes throughout EPCOT, collect stamps in their Festival Passport, and earn a special festival treat after completing the culinary challenge.
Families will also be excited to see the return of Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt. Guests can search throughout World Showcase for Remy as he gathers ingredients, using a themed map and stickers before earning a keepsake prize upon completion.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series Returns
The popular Eat to the Beat Concert Series will once again take center stage at the America Gardens Theatre.
Multiple performances are typically offered daily, giving guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music during their EPCOT visit. Concerts are included with park admission, while festival dining packages offer reserved seating for select performances.
New Interactive Cheese Exhibit Coming
Beginning September 18, CommuniCore Hall will debut an all-new interactive exhibit titled “Cheers to Cheese!”
The experience will celebrate one of the world’s favorite foods by exploring the history, science, and fun facts surrounding cheese through interactive displays and exhibits.
New Festival Merchandise
No EPCOT festival would be complete without exclusive merchandise, and this year’s collection looks especially colorful.
Disney previewed:
- Festival T-shirts
- Chef-inspired Minnie Ear Headbands
- Food & Wine Sweatshirts
- Baseball Caps
- Kitchen accessories
- Drinkware
- Collectible festival merchandise’
The collection features vibrant colors and playful culinary themes that celebrate the spirit of the festival.
New Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots
Disney PhotoPass photographers will once again offer exclusive Magic Shots during the festival.
Guests can pose with digital effects featuring favorites like:
- Waiter Mickey Mouse
- The Swedish Chef
- Chef Figment
- Max Goof’s “Leaning Tower of Cheeza”
- Giant Empanada
These limited-time photo opportunities are available throughout EPCOT and can be downloaded with Memory Maker.
More Than Just Great Food
While the incredible food and beverages may be the main attraction, there’s plenty more to enjoy throughout the festival.
Guests can experience attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, meet Disney characters, explore World Showcase, shop exclusive merchandise, and enjoy entertainment throughout the park while sampling flavors from around the globe.
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival continues to be one of the highlights of the Walt Disney World calendar, blending world-class cuisine, entertainment, family activities, and unique Disney experiences into one incredible event. With the festival returning from August 27 through November 21, 2026, now is the perfect time to start planning your fall Disney vacation.
Disney has promised that additional menus, marketplace details, and more surprises will be announced as opening day approaches, so be sure to stay tuned. We’ll continue bringing you all the latest updates as they become available!
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