With the Flower & Garden Festival wrapping up on June 2, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next visit for EPCOT’s most anticipated seasonal event: the International Food & Wine Festival.
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival returns in 2025, running from August 28 through November 22. This nearly three-month celebration offers guests the chance to explore global flavors, sip international beverages, and enjoy various entertainment, all included with park admission.
Let’s explore why the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival continues to be one of Disney’s most celebrated annual events and a must-do for any foodie.
A Tradition That Has Grown Over the Years
When the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival first launched in the autumn of 1996, it began a new Disney tradition. What started as a one-month event quickly became a popular and much-anticipated gathering, eventually expanding its offerings and duration.
The festival, once held in the fall, now kicks off in mid-July and runs through the end of November, giving guests more time to indulge in food, fun, and festive cheer. In 2025, the festival is expected to follow the same timeline.
How to Enjoy the EPCOT Festival Without Breaking the Bank
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is even better because it is included with the regular park admission to EPCOT! Guests can experience the festival without additional ticket purchases, making it an easy and accessible event.
While the entry fee is covered by regular admission, food and beverages are available for purchase. Several exclusive activities are also available at an additional cost.
Be sure to visit the official Walt Disney World website for more information on booking these extras.
A Bounty of Different Booths
Each year, guests can expect anywhere from 20 to 30 festival booths scattered throughout EPCOT’s World Showcase Pavilion. These booths are themed to showcase cuisines from around the world, offering everything from savory dishes to delicious desserts and international beverages.
Guests can sample small portions from each booth, allowing for plenty of variety and the chance to try new flavors. You can even sample from countries that are not usually displayed in the world showcase.
Some popular booths include:
- France: Known for decadent pastries and fine wines
- Japan: Sushi and sake pairings that offer an authentic experience
- Mexico: Tacos, margaritas, and other south-of-the-border delights
Exclusive Festival Merchandise
No Disney event is complete without some exclusive merchandise to take home, and the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival delivers! From apparel and pins to kitchen essentials, there’s something for everyone.
Visitors can find festival-themed merchandise at various locations throughout the park, including Port of Entry, Creations Shop, and World Traveler. They can also check out pop-up booths for limited-edition items.
The Soundtrack of the Festival: Eat to the Beat
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is about more than just food; it’s a celebration of entertainment, too. One of the event’s most iconic features is the Eat to the Beat concert series, which takes place every evening at the America Gardens Theatre.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series draws a lineup of well-known artists, with past favorites including Sugar Ray, Smash Mouth, and The Fray each year. These performances are a significant festival highlight and often lead to increased crowds, especially on nights featuring the most popular acts.
For an extra special experience, guests can opt for the Eat to the Beat Dining Package. This package allows them to enjoy a meal at one of EPCOT’s participating restaurants and receive reserved seating for the evening concert.
Fun and Festivities for All Ages
While the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is known for its culinary focus, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly activities.
Little ones can join the fun with scavenger hunts like Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak, a seasonal activity where children search for Remy’s hidden rat statues throughout the park.
Maps and stickers are available at merchandise locations, and completed maps can be turned in for a special prize. Later in the festival, the fun continues with Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit, where kids can join in a festive pumpkin hunt.
These activities are perfect for the entire family and add a fun, interactive layer to the festival.
More Time to Enjoy the Magic
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival has come a long way since its humble beginnings, expanding in both duration and offerings. From the end of August through late November, guests have more time than ever to enjoy the festival’s many delights.
This extended schedule allows food lovers, Disney fans, and families to experience the event at leisure and return for multiple visits.
EPCOT’s Year-Round Festivals
While the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is the star of the fall season, it’s just one of many seasonal festivals at EPCOT. The park also hosts the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts each winter, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival each spring, and the EPCOT International Festival of Holidays during the holiday season.
With year-round events, EPCOT ensures that there’s always something exciting happening at the park, no matter when you visit.
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival remains a must-see for Disney fans and food lovers. With its expanded offerings, world-class cuisine, and family-friendly activities, this annual festival is truly something to savor.
What’s your must-try dish or drink at EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival?
