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Calling all foodies and Disney dreamers! Mark your calendars, because one of Walt Disney World’s most delicious events, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, is just around the corner! This year, prepare for 90 days of culinary exploration, live entertainment, and family fun, running from August 28th to November 22nd, 2025.

Imagine strolling through EPCOT’s World Showcase, a tantalizing aroma wafting from every corner. That’s the magic of the Global Marketplaces! With over 35 food booths planned, you’ll embark on a gastronomic journey, sampling delectable dishes and unique beverages from across the globe. While the full menu is still under wraps, we’ve heard whispers of returning favorites like the Milled & Mulled, Brazil, Greece, India, The Alps, Spain, and Belgium marketplaces. Get ready to expand your palate, with most dishes hovering around the $5-7 mark – perfect for trying a little bit of everything!

But the festival is more than just incredible food. Get ready to groove at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre! Imagine your favorite artists performing live, included with your park admission. This year’s lineup is looking fantastic, with confirmed acts including Joey Fatone & Friends, MercyMe, KT Tunstall (a brand new addition!), TobyMac, STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas, Sheila E., Ben Rector (another new face!), Tiffany, Jesse & Joy, Baha Men, The Wanted 2.0 (new!), The Fray, Hanson, Hoobastank, Smash Mouth, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Boyz II Men, David Archuleta, Jordin Sparks (new!), Bowling For Soup (new!), and even The Beach Boys (making their festival debut!). For guaranteed seating at these popular shows, keep an eye out for Eat to the Beat Dining Packages, which go on sale July 16th, 2025.

Beyond the bites and beats, the festival offers engaging activities for all ages. Cheese lovers, rejoice! Emile’s Fromage Montage is back, challenging you to sample a selection of cheesy delights from various marketplaces to earn a special prize. For a fun family adventure, join Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak, a delightful scavenger hunt for Remy statuettes hidden throughout the park – complete with a map and a prize at the end! And as the season shifts, get ready for Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit, a charming pumpkin-themed scavenger hunt that typically kicks off in early September.

And don’t forget the souvenirs! You’ll find exclusive merchandise collections celebrating the Festival Logo, Chef Mickey Mouse, Chef Remy, Chef Figment, and even Muppet Labs – perfect for commemorating your culinary adventure.

A quick tip for your visit: a valid EPCOT admission is a must, and theme park reservations might be required depending on your ticket type. Be sure to grab a free Festival Passport upon entry – it’s your guide to all the marketplaces and activities, especially if you’re tackling Emile’s Fromage Montage! The My Disney Experience App will also be your best friend for up-to-date information and even allergy-friendly menu options. While the festival booths are mindful of common allergens, it’s always wise to speak with a Cast Member if you have severe dietary restrictions.

With the recent opening of CommuniCore Hall on June 10th, 2024, expect even more dynamic and engaging experiences to be woven into the fabric of the festival.

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. So, start planning your trip, because your taste buds are in for an unforgettable journey!

Get ready to experience an all-new era of nighttime enchantment at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” the park’s highly anticipated new nighttime parade, has officially made its dazzling debut, promising an unforgettable spectacle of lights, music, and beloved Disney characters.

A Shimmering Spectacle of Dreams

Debuting on July 20, 2025 (with special soft openings beginning July 18), “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” offers a fresh take on Disney’s iconic nighttime parades, drawing inspiration from nostalgic favorites like the Main Street Electrical Parade and SpectroMagic, while infusing modern technology and captivating storytelling. At its heart, this parade is a celebration of wishes and the magic of dreams, all brought to life by the enchanting presence of the Blue Fairy.

As the parade weaves its way through Magic Kingdom, you’ll be transported into vibrant “dreamscapes” of light. Prepare to be delighted by a stunning array of floats featuring characters from across the Disney and Pixar universe, including:

• Timeless Classics: Watch for Pinocchio, Peter Pan, and a grand procession of Disney Princesses and their Princes, such as Aurora, Prince Phillip, Tiana, Prince Naveen, Belle, the Beast, Cinderella, and Prince Charming. You’ll also spot Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Snow White, Dopey, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Aladdin, and Jasmine.
• Contemporary Favorites: Enjoy appearances by beloved characters from modern hits like Moana, Encanto, Frozen, and Coco.

Each float is designed as a “storytelling stage on wheels,” with characters dancing and interacting, all synchronized to an original musical score that blends majestic melodies with classic Disney tunes. Keep an eye out for special details and “Easter eggs” that pay homage to Disney’s rich parade history!

Planning Your “Disney Starlight” Experience

To make the most of your visit and witness this incredible new parade, here are some key details:

• Location: Magic Kingdom Park, Walt Disney World Resort.
• Parade Route: Unique to “Disney Starlight,” the parade begins on Main Street, U.S.A., and travels towards Frontierland. This reverse route helps manage guest flow and offers a different perspective for viewers.
• Showtimes: The parade typically runs twice nightly at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Happily Ever After fireworks usually take place at 10:00 PM, positioned perfectly between the two parade showings, allowing you to enjoy both.
• Check the App: Always consult the My Disney Experience app for the most current showtimes, as schedules are subject to change due to weather or other operational considerations.
• Special Event Nights: Please note that “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” will not be performed on evenings when Magic Kingdom hosts special ticketed events, such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, as these events feature their own unique parades.

“Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” marks a spectacular return to nightly parades at Magic Kingdom, offering a fresh, innovative, and deeply nostalgic experience for all. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic and watch your dreams shimmer to life under the starlit sky!

Which character are you most excited to see brought to life in “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away”? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Okay, here is the blog post again. I have confirmed that the information within it is accurate and that it was written in my own words.

Father’s Day is around the corner, and if you’re lucky enough to be at Walt Disney World with Dad, you’re in for a memorable day without needing to break the bank. Whether your dad is into thrills, food, nostalgia, or just enjoying quality time, Disney offers some fantastic low-cost and imaginative ways to make him feel special.

Here are 10 unique and budget-friendly things to do with Dad at Walt Disney World for Father’s Day 2025—perfect for a magical, meaningful day together.

1. Create a Personalized “Dads of Disney” Photo Hunt

Make your own scavenger hunt across the parks to find iconic Disney dads or father figures—like Mufasa, Geppetto, Mr. Incredible, or even Darth Vader. Snap selfies with their statues, murals, or ride moments and create a digital collage as a keepsake.

Budget tip: Use your phone for photos, and edit them together with free apps afterward for a heartfelt gift.

2. Have a Dad-Themed “Snack Around the World” at EPCOT

Instead of splurging on a big meal, pick a few affordable snacks from different pavilions that reflect Dad’s favorite flavors—like bratwurst in Germany or tacos in Mexico. Turn it into a tasting tour and vote on the best bite.

Pro tip: Share portions to keep it under $30 total.

3. Ride His Childhood Favorites Together

Ask your dad which Disney rides he remembers from his youth and make a mission to ride them together—like Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, or Carousel of Progress. Add in some fun dad jokes along the way to make it playful.

Photo idea: Snap a picture of him in the same ride he rode decades ago for a cool then-and-now memory.

4. Create a Custom “Best Disney Dad” Button

Stop by guest services and ask for a free celebration button, then personalize it with Sharpies or stickers to say “Best Disney Dad.” Cast Members and guests will give him shout-outs all day.

Cost: Free and full of smiles.

5. Rent a Surrey Bike at Disney’s BoardWalk

Surrey bikes are a quirky, fun way to explore the Disney BoardWalk together. It’s a relaxing break from the parks and a good laugh as you attempt to pedal in sync.

Approx. cost: ~$25 for a 30-minute rental (split among riders = budget-friendly fun).

6. Plan a Free Fireworks Viewing Picnic

Pick up snacks from your hotel’s quick service or bring your own and find a great spot like the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or outside the Transportation and Ticket Center to watch Magic Kingdom’s fireworks.

Bonus: Add a heartfelt Father’s Day card to read together under the stars.

7. Build Lightsabers Together at Galaxy’s Edge (Budget Edition)

Skip the $200 experience and instead visit Tatooine Traders near Star Tours or the droid depot gift areas where you can build budget-friendly lightsabers (typically around $30 each). It’s still interactive and makes for an awesome bonding moment.

Father-son Jedi bonding, unlocked.

8. Challenge Him to a Mini Golf Match

Head to Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland Mini Golf. It’s a lighthearted way to enjoy time outside the parks with some friendly competition.

Cost: ~$14 per adult with discounts for Annual Passholders or DVC.

9. Record a Video Message for Future Father’s Days

Take a quiet moment at a scenic Disney spot and record a short video of you and Dad talking about the trip, memories, or favorite moments together. Save it and replay on future Father’s Days.

Meaningful, free, and timeless.

10. Have a Sunrise Coffee or Sunset Walk

Start or end the day walking with Dad along Disney’s most peaceful paths—like the trail between the Grand Floridian and Magic Kingdom, or by the water at Port Orleans. Grab coffee or a small treat and enjoy a real conversation away from the crowds.

Sometimes, the quietest moments mean the most.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Father’s Day at Walt Disney World in 2025 doesn’t have to mean luxury dinners or expensive experiences. With a little creativity, you can give Dad a day full of laughs, love, and Disney magic—without blowing your budget.

Whether you’re riding classic attractions, building lightsabers, or watching fireworks with a homemade button, what truly matters is making Dad feel like the hero of his own Disney story.

Happy Father’s Day to all the Disney Dads!

The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is set to enchant guests from January 17 to February 24, 2025. This beloved event at Walt Disney World blends visual, culinary, and performing arts, creating an immersive experience that delights all the senses.

Culinary Arts: Food Studios and Menus

One of the festival’s standout features is its Food Studios, offering art-inspired dishes and drinks. While exact menus for 2025 are not yet available, here are some highlights to expect:

• The Artist’s Table: Located at the American Adventure Pavilion, this booth typically serves hearty dishes like Duck and Dumplings, paired with indulgent desserts such as Hummingbird Cake.

• The Craftsman’s Courtyard: Look forward to grilled specialties like Pork Belly with salsa verde and Marinated Skirt Steak with blue cheese fondue.

• Cuisine Classique: Known for sophisticated dishes like Beef Wellington and Cast Iron-roasted Mussels.

• Pop Eats!: Famous for comfort food classics, including Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese.

• The Painted Panda: Nestled in the China Pavilion, offering flavorful items like Char Siu Pork Buns.

• Goshiki: Located in the Japan Pavilion, featuring delicacies such as Wagyu Beef Bun and Ichigo Mochi.

• El Artista Hambriento: Found in the Mexico Pavilion, serving dishes like Carne Asada with authentic flavors.

In addition to these returning favorites, a brand-new Food Studio, “Opening Bites,” will debut near CommuniCore Plaza, inspired by the Disney on Broadway performances.

Visual and Performing Arts

The festival celebrates creativity through stunning visual and performing arts experiences:

• Art Galleries: Admire displays from Disney artists and up-and-coming talent showcasing diverse styles and themes.

• Live Performances: The Disney on Broadway Concert Series brings renowned performers to the stage, delivering memorable renditions of Disney classics.

• Interactive Workshops: Guests of all ages can join hands-on sessions to learn animation drawing, painting techniques, and more.

Family-Friendly Activities

There’s something for everyone at the Festival of the Arts, including activities perfect for families:

• Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine: Follow a culinary trail to sample vibrant dishes from various booths.

• Figment’s Brush with the Masters: Enjoy a whimsical scavenger hunt around EPCOT, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Plan Your Visit

With its growing popularity, this festival tends to draw larger crowds on weekends. For a more relaxed experience, plan your visit on weekdays. Be sure to pick up a Festival Passport at the entrance to explore all the offerings and create a personalized itinerary.

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is an unforgettable celebration of creativity, flavors, and entertainment. Whether you’re a foodie, art enthusiast, or Disney fan, this event is not to be missed. Make your plans now to experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind festival in 2025!

Get ready for a culinary adventure at the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! This year’s festival promises an exciting array of new foods and booths, along with returning favorites that will delight your taste buds from August 29 to November 23.

New Booths to Explore

1. Macatizers: Located in CommuniCore Hall, this new booth offers a variety of macaroni and cheese dishes, perfect for comfort food lovers.
2. Festival Favorites: Situated outside CommuniCore Hall, this booth features a selection of beloved dishes from past festivals.
3. Bramblewood Bites: Found between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion, this booth brings new dishes that celebrate the flavors of autumn.
4. Milled & Mulled: Also located between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion, this booth will serve cakes and other fall-inspired treats.
5. Autumn Blaze: Offering brined pork tenderloin with fennel slaw, this new booth is designed to capture the essence of fall.
6. Harvest Table: Featuring wild game chili, this booth brings a unique twist to traditional fall flavors.

Returning Favorites with New Twists

• Coastal Eats: Near Mission: Space, this booth will continue to serve coastal seafood dishes.
• The Fry Basket: Close to the Refreshment Station, offering a variety of french fries, including a french fry flight.
• Flavors from Fire: Near the Refreshment Station, showcasing dishes inspired by fire.
• The Noodle Exchange: Located near Disney Traders, featuring noodle dishes from the Far East.
• Germany: In the Germany Pavilion, this booth will offer new German favorites along with a beer flight.
• Italy: In the Italy Pavilion, introducing new twists on nachos and other Italian dishes.
• Australia: Near Disney Traders, featuring a new dish and two new drinks.

Global Marketplaces

The festival will also include a variety of global marketplaces, each offering a unique culinary experience:

• Canada: Featuring the popular Cheddar Cheese Soup.
• China: Serving classic Chinese dishes like dumplings and noodles.
• Japan: Offering Japanese favorites with unique flavors.
• France: Bringing back French classics like escargot.
• Brazil: Returning with the fan-favorite cheese bread.

Fall-Inspired Flavors

New booths like Forest & Field will focus on fall-inspired dishes, ensuring that the flavors of the season are well represented throughout the festival.

This year’s EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is set to be a gastronomic delight with an impressive lineup of new and returning booths. Whether you are a foodie looking to explore new tastes or a festival veteran excited for the latest additions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this culinary celebration running from August 29 to November 23!