DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is one of Disney’s most beloved seasonal events, bringing a burst of color and excitement to Walt Disney World. Since its debut in 1994, this vibrant festival has evolved from a modest month-long affair into a four-month extravaganza packed with stunning floral displays, delicious food offerings, and a wide range of activities.
While we are still waiting for dates on 2025’s Festival, the 2024 edition ran from February 28 – May 27. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a foodie, or just love all things Disney, here’s a guide to all the can’t-miss experiences at EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival.
Marvel at the Topiaries
When people think of the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, topiaries are often the first thing that comes to mind. These meticulously crafted floral sculptures, featuring Disney characters and other creative designs, are the centerpiece of the festival.
Each year brings the return of fan-favorite topiaries, while also introducing brand-new ones. Visitors can look forward to stunning new topiaries featuring beloved characters from Disney’s Encanto. Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela, and Luisa will grace the entrance of EPCOT, welcoming guests with their vibrant blooms.
Another highlight is a new topiary of Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, located at the American Adventure Pavilion.
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Other iconic topiaries include Disney classics like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Peter Pan and Captain Hook, Anna and Elsa, Figment, and Beauty and the Beast. These breathtaking displays are scattered across the park, creating Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.
Savor the Flavors at Outdoor Kitchens
Foodies, rejoice! The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is not just about flowers it’s also about savoring the flavors of spring. The festival’s Outdoor Kitchens offer a tantalizing variety of seasonal dishes and beverages, each inspired by fresh ingredients and global cuisines.
Guests can explore at least 15 Outdoor Kitchens, each with its own unique menu. From BRUNCHCOT to EPCOT Farmers Feast, Florida Fresh, and La Isla Fresca, the offerings cater to a variety of tastes. You’ll find everything from plant-based dishes at Trowel & Trellis to decadent desserts and refreshing beverages at Citrus Blossom, featuring the iconic Orange Bird.
Whether you’re craving savory bites, sweet treats, or specialty cocktails, the festival’s food and beverage lineup promises something for every palate. Be sure to check the festival’s official website for full menus and start planning your culinary journey!
Explore Specialty Gardens and Exhibits
EPCOT’s festival gardens are a key attraction, offering visitors the chance to wander through lush displays that highlight the beauty and diversity of plant life from around the world. Each garden has a unique theme, and many are located throughout the World Showcase.
For example, you can stroll through the Tropical Rainforest Garden at the Mexico Pavilion or enjoy the tranquil English Tea Garden in the United Kingdom Pavilion, presented by Twinings. Other notable displays include the Bamboo Garden in China, the Spice Garden in Morocco, and Italy’s Garden Italiano, which showcases herbs and produce used in traditional Italian cooking.
Credit: Disney
In addition to these, there are numerous other specialty gardens and exhibits scattered throughout EPCOT, each offering a new opportunity to learn about and appreciate the world of horticulture.
Immerse Yourself in Blossoms of Fragrance
Blossoms of Fragrance is a sensory experience like no other. Sponsored by Scentsy, this interactive exhibit features six different aromatic stations, each filled with floral fragrances designed to delight the senses. Visitors can wander through beautiful butterfly topiaries while taking in the sweet smells of spring.
This unique experience allows guests to connect with nature in a whole new way, making it a must-do during the festival.
Visit the Butterfly House
A perennial favorite at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is the Butterfly House. This enchanting, enclosed space is home to dozens of colorful butterflies, offering visitors the chance to observe these delicate creatures up close as they flutter through a garden of vibrant flowers.
The Butterfly House provides a peaceful respite from the excitement of the park, making it a must-see for visitors of all ages.
Learn From the Experts
For gardening enthusiasts, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival offers numerous opportunities to learn from the pros. Throughout the festival, expert horticulturists and gardeners host seminars, presentations, and guided tours, sharing tips and tricks on planting, landscaping, and more.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a novice gardener, there’s always something new to learn. With experts on hand, you can gain insights into Disney’s own gardening practices and learn the secrets behind the festival’s breathtaking displays.
Join Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration
Looking for a fun activity for kids? Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a family-friendly scavenger hunt that will keep children engaged as they explore the festival. For $9.99, kids can follow Spike the Bee as he “pollinates” plants throughout the park. By placing stickers on their provided map, they track Spike’s journey, and once the map is complete, they can return it to a designated location for a special prize.
This interactive activity is a great way to make the festival even more magical for young visitors.
Enjoy Live Music and Entertainment
The Garden Rocks Concert Series is back, bringing live performances to the America Gardens Theatre throughout the festival. Every Friday through Monday, big-name bands and musical acts take the stage, while local artists entertain the crowds on other evenings. From classic rock to pop hits, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy.
Credit: Disney
In addition to the concert series, guests can catch spontaneous performances throughout EPCOT, adding even more energy and excitement to the festival atmosphere.
Shop for Exclusive Merchandise
No visit to a Disney festival is complete without bringing home some special souvenirs. The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival features a wide range of exclusive merchandise, including apparel, accessories, gardening tools, and home décor. Don’t forget to pick up something featuring the festival mascot, Orange Bird, to commemorate your experience!
Conclusion
The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is an extraordinary celebration of springtime beauty, delicious food, and Disney magic. From the stunning topiaries to the flavorful outdoor kitchens, there’s no shortage of must-see attractions and activities during the festival.
Be sure to take your time exploring everything EPCOT has to offer and immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind Disney experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-time visitor, this EPCOT festival always promises to be one of the best times to visit Walt Disney World’s EPCOT!
