Walt Disney World is preparing another round of changes at EPCOT, and one of the park’s most popular seasonal festivals is getting something new.
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has become a favorite among guests who enjoy Disney entertainment, creative food, and interactive experiences. Each year, the event brings something different to the park, giving visitors more reasons to explore beyond the usual attractions.
Now, Disney has confirmed a new addition for 2027 that will celebrate some of its most recognizable productions in an entirely different way.
The experience will arrive alongside new merchandise and returning entertainment when the festival begins in January.
Disney Confirms New Experience Coming to EPCOT
Disney has announced that a new exhibit called Once Upon A Stage: The Music of Disney on Broadway will debut inside CommuniCore Hall during the 2027 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.
The exhibit will take guests behind the scenes of Disney’s Broadway productions, exploring how beloved stories make their way from the creative process to live theater.
Productions represented include The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.
According to Disney’s concept art, visitors can expect a songwriter’s room featuring a piano, armchair, and theatrical posters. Recording booth-inspired stations will also celebrate productions such as Newsies.
Another section will feature records and imagery from Disney’s stage productions.
The addition gives guests another reason to visit CommuniCore Hall, which has continued evolving as a festival destination.
Rather than simply watching performers sing familiar songs, visitors will have an opportunity to explore the creativity involved in bringing those productions to life.
New Disney Merchandise Will Also Arrive
The Broadway exhibit isn’t the only addition coming to CommuniCore Hall.
Disney has also confirmed that the location will offer Disney on Broadway merchandise for the first time.
The collection celebrates several theatrical productions, including Hercules, Aladdin, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast.
One item is a black Lion King sweatshirt featuring a textured cream lion design, lettering along the sleeve, and striped cuffs.
Fans of Hercules can purchase a blue sequined Loungefly mini backpack featuring gold straps and artwork of the Muses performing.
Beauty and the Beast will receive a canvas tote featuring the phrase “My Weekend Is Booked,” while Aladdin fans can look forward to a collectible Genie figure holding a golden lamp.
Disney hasn’t announced prices for the merchandise.
The collection adds another shopping opportunity to a festival already known for exclusive artwork and collectibles.
EPCOT Festival of the Arts Returns With More Changes
The 2027 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will run from January 15 through March 1.
That schedule gives guests additional time to experience the celebration compared to previous years.
Festival of the Arts first debuted in 2017 and has developed a loyal following thanks to its combination of visual artwork, live entertainment, and creative food.
Unlike EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival, which primarily focuses on dining, Festival of the Arts encourages guests to explore several different forms of creativity.
Visitors can browse artwork, watch artists create pieces, and participate in interactive activities.
The festival also features experiences that allow guests to become part of the artwork.
These activities have helped make Festival of the Arts particularly appealing to families who want something beyond rides.
Disney has also experimented with additional entertainment and interactive offerings during previous festivals.
Disney on Broadway Remains a Major Attraction
One of the festival’s biggest draws is the Disney on Broadway Concert Series at America Gardens Theatre.
The performances feature talented Broadway entertainers singing music from Disney’s theatrical productions.
Guests can enjoy songs associated with productions such as The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin.
These concerts offer something different from traditional theme park entertainment, especially for visitors who enjoy musical theater.
The performances have also produced surprising moments involving Broadway stars and potential future Disney productions.
With the new CommuniCore Hall exhibit, guests will have another opportunity to celebrate Disney’s theatrical history before or after attending a concert.
Food and Art Remain Important Parts of the Festival
Of course, Festival of the Arts offers considerably more than Broadway entertainment.
Food Studios throughout EPCOT serve creative dishes designed to look almost as impressive as they taste.
During the 2026 celebration, Disney introduced 59 new food items across the festival.
The menus frequently feature colorful desserts, unusual combinations, and artistic presentations.
However, guests should also prepare for additional spending.
Festival food prices have become a growing concern, particularly for families hoping to sample multiple dishes.
Beyond dining, guests can explore galleries, purchase artwork, and enjoy demonstrations throughout EPCOT.
Figment also plays a major role in the celebration, appearing on merchandise and festival decorations.
What Guests Should Expect in 2027
The new Broadway exhibit gives Disney another opportunity to expand an event that has become increasingly popular.
While some fans have pushed for a longer Festival of the Arts, Disney’s extended 2027 schedule already addresses part of that concern.
Visitors will have more time to explore the festival, enjoy Broadway performances, and experience the new CommuniCore Hall offering.
With additional merchandise, interactive artwork, and returning entertainment, Festival of the Arts continues giving Disney World guests reasons to visit EPCOT during the winter months.
