EPCOT - World Showcase
Epcot World Showcase Countries
World Showcase Overview
EPCOT's World Showcase is centered around a reflective lagoon. There are eleven countries represented here. With rare exception, the World Showcase opens at 11:00 a.m.
This is one of the more relaxing and scenic areas of Disney World. As far as "attractions" go, you're not going to find thrill rides but there are several movies, boat rides and shows that will give you an overview of the country you're in.
As you stroll around, you'll transition from one country to the next. While each "land" is next to the other, you'll never get the sense that you're in two places at once. To enhance the experience, the cast members typically come from the country you're visiting and are always eager to talk about their homeland.
If you're looking for unique and often inexpensive souvenirs, this is the place to be. Unlike the other theme parks which sells almost identical merchandise, each country in the World Showcase has items that are only found there. From candy to clothing, from CDs to Cuckoo clocks, there's no end to the "treasures" waiting to be found.
Dining at the World Showcase is not to be missed. Most countries have both table and counter serve restaurants. It's a wonderful chance to try a different cuisine. (We strongly recommend making a Dining Reservation for the table serve venues.)
EPCOT hosts four special events annually. The Fall brings the very popular International Food and Wine Festival, the Spring welcomes the International Flower and Garden Festival, the Winter has the newest of them all; the International Festival of the Arts. The holidays are especially festive with the International Festival of the Holidays along with the Candlelight Processional, a highlight of the Christmas season.
The World Showcase is one of the main reasons EPCOT got the reputation of not being "kid friendly." That changed when they added Kidcot Fun Stops in every country's pavilion throughout the park. Your little one can create free crafts at the Kidcot spots (yes, you read that right, something is actually free.) It's made EPCOT a must see for all ages.
Luminous a Symphony of Us is EPCOT's nighttime fireworks spectacular that can be seen from various vantage points all around the World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth had its final presentation on September 30, 2019.
- Related Article: EPCOT’s World Showcase Pavilions Ranked
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
The Festival of the Arts made its debut in January 2017 at EPCOT and featured art pieces from Disney historical artists as well as current Disney artists. A collaboration with Disney Theatrical Productions brought an exciting new showcase of favorite music and Broadway talent to the America Gardens Theatre stage. Food Studios showcased culinary creations so delicious and intricate that guests wondered if the menus were for admiring or eating. For more detailed information
on the Festival of the Arts, CLICK
HERE.
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
One of the most welcome signs of spring is EPCOT's annual International Flower & Garden Festival. While the grounds at EPCOT are always beautiful, the Flower and Garden Festival takes them to the next level. For more detailed information
on the Flower and Garden Festival, CLICK
HERE.
EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival
The EPCOT International Food and
Wine Festival is an experience not to be missed. Every
fall, the countries
of World Showcase set up special booths
and allow people to sample their foods. The price
for these small, bite size portions ranges from $4 - $8. A specific
wine that enhances the dish is suggested. Wines also range
from $3 and up. For more detailed information
on the Food and Wine Festival, CLICK
HERE.
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
The Festival of the Holidays made its debut in November of 2016 at EPCOT and features Holiday Kitchens throughout the park with special menus, merchandise created just for the season, and all the Holiday favorites. Guests will find storytellers in each of the pavilions around World Showcase who share traditions from their respective countries and more. For more detailed information
on the Festival of the Holidays, CLICK
HERE.
At various times throughout the year, you may find a special celebration going on at these World Showcase countries:
- January 26 - Chinese New Year
- May 5 - Children's Day at Japan
- May 5 - Cinco de Maya at Mexico
- May 17 - Norway Constitution Day
- July 1 - Canada Day
- October 3 - German Reunification Day
- November 5 - United Kingdom's Guy Fawkes Day
- November 18 - Morocco Independence Day
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