Currently, Disney World is fully immersed in the holiday spirit, offering a variety of festive activities to get guests into the seasonal mood. Visitors can enjoy events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Over at EPCOT, the International Festival of the Holidays features a global selection of delicious food, plus the fun Holiday Cookie Stroll for those looking to indulge in seasonal treats.
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EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays: A Festive Must-Do
Every winter, EPCOT transforms into a haven for holiday enthusiasts with its International Festival of the Holidays. Guests can explore the World Showcase, sampling seasonal dishes inspired by global cuisines while enjoying performances from cultural storytellers who share traditions from their homelands. The Candlelight Processional remains a highlight, with celebrity narrators and a live orchestra captivating audiences nightly.
One of the most popular festival offerings is the Holiday Cookie Stroll. Guests collect stamps by purchasing cookies from designated locations throughout the park. Once all stamps are gathered, participants earn a special reward cookie—a fun and delicious way to explore the festival.
A Holiday Treat Goes Viral for the Wrong Reasons
One treat on the Holiday Cookie Stroll lineup this year was the Peanut Butter Cookie from Sunshine Seasons in The Land Pavilion. Topped with peanut butter frosting and mini M&Ms, it sounded like a simple yet satisfying dessert. However, the cookie’s execution left guests less than impressed.
X (formerly Twitter) user FiBelleFi shared a now-viral image comparing the cookie’s promotional photo to the reality served in the parks. The difference was striking. The advertised version featured a generous swirl of frosting, while the real-life cookie looked sparse and unappetizing.
“It’s been a long time since I posted a good old fashioned Expectation vs. Reality”
It’s been a long time since I posted a good old fashioned Expectation vs. Reality pic.twitter.com/10rtS47uuz
— Belle (@FiBelleFi) December 11, 2024
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The tweet quickly gained traction, sparking a wave of reactions from Disney fans, who were less than pleased with the disparity.
Fan Reactions: “Disney Can Afford Better”
The disappointing treat prompted heated discussions online, with fans expressing frustration over what they saw as a decline in quality at Disney parks. One Twitter user didn’t mince words:
“Disney can afford it! Whoever approved this needs to rethink their standards. The pastry chefs should demand consistency to match the advertised version.”
Another commenter echoed the sentiment, pointing out that Disney’s reputation for excellence is a key reason guests are willing to pay premium prices for their experiences.
While some fans laughed off the mishap, others saw it as part of a larger issue of Disney cutting corners in ways that affect guest satisfaction.
A Pattern of Overpromising?
This isn’t the first time Disney has faced backlash over inconsistencies between advertised products and the reality delivered in parks. From merchandise to food offerings, some fans have begun to question whether Disney is maintaining the high standards they’ve come to expect.
The peanut butter cookie incident, while minor, has become a symbol for a larger debate about whether Disney is doing enough to meet guest expectations. When guests visit EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, they’re seeking exceptional experiences that justify the cost of entry. A treat that doesn’t meet its promise can leave a sour taste—literally and figuratively.
More Reasons to Celebrate EPCOT’s Festival
Despite the cookie controversy, the International Festival of the Holidays offers plenty to love. The Holiday Cookie Stroll continues to delight guests with standout offerings like the Linzer Cookie and Black-and-White Cookie, both of which have received rave reviews this season. Specialty beverages, including seasonal hot chocolate flights and spiked holiday cocktails, also add to the festive cheer.
Beyond the food, guests can enjoy the World Showcase’s holiday decor, storytelling performances, and live entertainment. From the joyous sounds of Voices of Liberty to the moving Candlelight Processional, the festival offers a magical way to celebrate the season.
Have you experienced the Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT? Share your thoughts—and your favorite treats—in the comments below!
I remember that Dixie Landings had the best by the piece southern fried chicken on the property and Port Orleans had the best Jambelia Anywhere.Now the chicken is completely gone and the port Orleans food has lost all the southern spice it once had. Very sad fare now.