Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival

“Drink around the world” and “Eat around the world” are both affectionate, if unofficial, slogans for Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival. Held annually around the World Showcase Lagoon, this festival offers you the opportunity to sample food and alcoholic beverages from numerous countries, including many that do not maintain a permanent Epcot presence. Best of all, your regular Epcot admission includes Food and Wine.

What is it?

The Food and Wine Festival is an annual Epcot event, which generally runs from late September through mid-November (2006 dates: 9/29 – 11/12). Over 20 countries are represented with stands located throughout the World Showcase. Low prices (most food items are under ) and appetizer-sized portions allow visitors to sample a wide array of foods and drinks. Sample the recommended food and wine pairing at each location, or order a la carte from a small list of choices. Many special events, some included with admission, others offered at additional charge, take place throughout the festival.

I want to hear about the free stuff.

Free Beer and Wine (and Tea):

Multiple free seminars take place through the day, offering guests the opportunity to learn more about popular brands, while enjoying free drinks (age 21+ for the beer and wine, all ages may attend the tea seminar). These seminars are very popular, so be sure to arrive early.

Free concerts are another popular activity. From the Beach Boys, to Little Richard, to Chubby Checker, well-known artists perform three times nightly (5:45, 7, and 8:15 pm) at the America Gardens Theatre, located directly across from the American Adventure pavilion. Plan to arrive early to ensure a seat.

Culinary demonstrations take place throughout the day. Featuring guest chefs from around the world, as well as chefs from Disney’s own fine dining establishments, these are an excellent way to pick up some new cooking tips. Often guests will have the opportunity to sample the dish that the chef creates.

Traveling with kids? They can get in on the act, with special demonstrations and activities just for them. From learning about honey from beekeepers with observation hives, to baking their own tollhouse cookies, or simply gawking at award winning pumpkins (up to 200 pounds each!), there is plenty to keep the younger set involved.

Exciting acts perform throughout the day at the various pavilions. From Chinese acrobats to a Mariachi band, from 1960s rock by the British Invasion to a fusion of Celtic and Rock music by Off-Kilter, there is entertainment galore throughout the World Showcase.

Of course, all regular attractions continue to run, throughout both the World Showcase and Future World.

Okay, I want to do more. What else is available?

For an additional charge, there are many additional activities from which to choose.

From food and wine pairings (3 wines, 3 tasting-size dishes, - per person) through deluxe five course meals prepared by celebrity chefs (5-5 per person), available seminars and experiences run the gamut. Want to dine on pastries and cakes prepared by one of the best in the world? Sign up for Sweet Sundays at the Odyssey Restaurant. Prefer a culinary demonstration and tasting session with one of TV’s Iron Chefs? Then sign up for Odyssey Kitchen Conversations. Reservations can be made at (407) WDW-FEST.

Why should I go?

Epcot Food and Wine is a natural extension of the World’s Fair atmosphere of the World Showcase. With its strolling minstrels, shopping bazaars, and entertainment, the World Showcase is a festival of the senses. Food and Wine adds another dimension, and at no additional charge (except for the items you choose to purchase).