A Taste of the World: EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

EPCOT in the fall has a rhythm all its own. The park hums with excitement, filled with music, color, and the scent of dishes sizzling from every corner of the globe. The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, running from August 29 – November 23, 2025, is one of Disney’s most beloved traditions. It’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and creativity that invites guests to travel the world without ever leaving Orlando.

A Feast for Every Traveler

The festival transforms EPCOT’s World Showcase into a global tasting adventure. Each pavilion offers a new flavor, a new story, and a new way to experience a country’s culture through food. You might start in Mexico with Tacos al Pastor, then wander to France for Beignet aux Trois Fromages, before finishing in Japan with sushi rolls so delicate they almost look too pretty to eat.

This year’s event includes more than 30 global marketplaces. Longtime favorites like Greece, Hawaii, and Brazil return, joined by newer booths such as Swirled Showcase, a playful spot for soft-serve, frozen drinks, and colorful treats. Among the most talked-about dishes are the Canadian Cheddar and Bacon Soup from Le Cellier, the Impossible Slider with Wasabi Cream, and Belgium’s signature waffles with warm chocolate ganache.

Sip, Savor, and Celebrate

The food may be the highlight, but the atmosphere is what makes this festival unforgettable. Guests can sip through exclusive wine and craft beer pairings, watch culinary demonstrations, or enjoy the “Eat to the Beat” concert series, featuring live performances from well-known artists. It’s a lively, immersive experience that feels equal parts vacation and celebration.

For Families and Foodies Alike

While the festival draws food lovers from around the world, it’s also surprisingly family-friendly. Kids can take part in Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt, a playful adventure that sends them searching for hidden Remy statues throughout the park. There are family-friendly food options, fun photo spots, and interactive experiences that keep even the youngest travelers engaged.

What Makes It Stand Out

No Disney event captures the spirit of exploration quite like this one. The Food & Wine Festival blends sophistication with pure Disney joy. One moment you’re sipping wine from Italy that you’d never find at home, and the next you’re laughing with your kids over a Mickey-shaped chocolate mousse. It’s travel without a passport, fine dining without the formality, and a reminder that the world feels a little smaller when shared through food.

Tips for Making the Most of It

• Arrive early or stay late. Crowds are lighter during the first few hours of the day and again after dark.
• Grab a Festival Passport. This free booklet helps you track booths, dishes, and entertainment.
• Use the Disney app. Mobile ordering and interactive maps make exploring the festival easier.
• Bring your appetite and take your time. With so many dishes to sample, the best strategy is to pace yourself and enjoy each bite.

The Magic in Every Bite

EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival isn’t just an event. It’s a journey, a celebration, and a chance to savor the world one dish at a time. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or surrounded by family, you’ll leave with new memories, new favorites, and a deeper appreciation for how food connects us all.