A casual walk through EPCOT’s World Showcase turned into a surprising Disney moment for guests on March 4. Visitors exploring the United Kingdom Pavilion discovered that Cruella De Vil had suddenly appeared for an impromptu meet-and-greet.
The villain from 101 Dalmatians (1961) greeted guests outside near The Queen’s Table, where she posed for photos and interacted with fans who happened to be in the area. Because the appearance wasn’t scheduled or widely promoted beforehand, many guests stumbled upon the meet-and-greet purely by chance.
That sense of surprise made the moment even more exciting.
Cruella is not a character that typically meets guests at EPCOT. When she does appear in Walt Disney World, it’s usually during special events at Magic Kingdom, particularly Halloween-themed celebrations where Disney villains take center stage.
That’s why spotting her in EPCOT felt like such a rare opportunity.
The United Kingdom Pavilion proved to be the perfect backdrop for the character. With its London-style buildings, gardens, and quaint streets, the pavilion reflects the British setting closely associated with Cruella’s story.
Guests who approached the meet-and-greet quickly realized that the character performer fully embraced Cruella’s larger-than-life personality. Dramatic poses, playful insults, and stylish flair were all part of the interaction, giving fans exactly the kind of villainous charm they hoped for.
The appearance also coincided with the opening day of EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival for 2026.
Each spring, the festival fills EPCOT with elaborate topiary sculptures, colorful floral displays, and outdoor kitchens serving seasonal dishes. The event is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it one of the most popular times of the year to visit the park.
Festival merchandise also plays a big role in the celebration. This year’s offerings include themed items inspired by characters like Spike the Bee and Orange Bird, along with special merchandise available for Annual Passholders.
Although Disney hasn’t confirmed that Cruella’s appearance was connected to the festival, it wouldn’t be surprising. Seasonal events often include extra entertainment or surprise character sightings that help bring additional energy to the park.
Moments like this also reflect something longtime Disney fans know well: not every magical experience appears on the daily schedule.
Sometimes the most memorable park moments happen when you least expect them.
For guests visiting EPCOT that afternoon, a routine walk through the United Kingdom Pavilion suddenly turned into a chance to meet one of Disney’s most iconic villains.
