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A once-bustling corner of the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion at EPCOT now sits noticeably empty, as fresh photos reveal just how thoroughly Walt Disney World Resort has cleared out the space following the closure of a longtime merchandise stand.
The Oaxacan Wood-Carving Shop’s Final Days
Credit: Michael Gray, Flickr
Disney Tips reported in late August that cast members had confirmed the permanent closure of the Oaxacan wood-carving shop, a small stand tucked near the entrance to the Plaza de los Amigos inside the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion pyramid. The shop specialized in colorful, hand-carved wooden animal figures crafted from timber sourced in the hills of Mexico’s Oaxacan Valley.
In the shop’s final days before its official closure on August 31, Disney cast members posted hand-written signs offering 50% off remaining inventory.
What the Space Looks Like Now
Credit: Disney
WDWNT reported on September 1 — just one day after the closure — that virtually every trace of the former shop had vanished from the Plaza de los Amigos. All that remains where the stand once stood is a large barrel and a lamppost, and Disney Park guests are currently free to stand in the now-empty space.
The closure didn’t stop there. Walt Disney World Resort has also roped off the nearby Kidcot stop, a staple of the interactive scavenger hunt that runs throughout EPCOT’s World Showcase and appeals to kids and adults alike. The stop has since been dismantled entirely, with velvet ropes now blocking guest access.
No Replacement Announced
Credit: inazakira, Flickr
As of September 1, Disney hasn’t confirmed a replacement Kidcot stop for the Mexico Pavilion, meaning guests collecting stamps for their “passports” will have to skip this location for now. Walt Disney World Resort also hasn’t explained why it chose to close both the wood-carving shop and the Kidcot stop, and there’s no word yet on whether the Kidcot stop will eventually return.
Have you ever purchased something from the Oaxacan wood carving stand in the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion at EPCOT? Tell Disney Tips about your experience in the comments!
