Experiencing The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

Image source: Walt Disney World Media Image

Each spring, Walt Disney World's Epcot Park transforms into a floral wonderland with the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. The event typically starts in early March and runs until mid-May.

The spring-themed event is filled with Disney-character topiaries and beautiful garden landscapes and flower displays. Topiaries like Chip and Dale, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will be showcased in Epcot's Future World and World Showcase.

Character Topiaries

The Disney character topiaries are one of the biggest draws to the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot. For 2015, the Frozen phenomenon is coming to the festival with a brand new Elsa and Anna topiary display in the World Showcase Plaza. Look for Goofy and Chip and Dale topiaries at the park entrance.

Special Garden Displays and Seminars

There are plenty of interesting gardening exhibits in addition to the character topiaries. Mini-gardens are themed spots like Shakespeare Garden, Pepper Garden, and more.

During weekends, look for special Gardening Seminars to be held inside the Festival Center. At night, both the topiaries and the gardens will be illuminated.

Outdoor Kitchens

An added bonus of the International Flower and Garden Festival is the return of the special eats in Outdoor Kitchens. These temporary Outdoor Kitchens are akin to the widely popular Marketplace Booths featured in Epcot's annual Food and Wine Festival. Each kitchen offers a menu that gives guests an opportunity to sample many different global foods, all inspired by fresh flavors from the garden.

There are special drinks, some with alcohol as well. One of the most popular items is the adult version of the beloved Dole Whip, amped up with rum.

The 2015 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival showcases the flavors of spring with an emphasis on Garden Goodness.

Garden Passport

Much like the passport available during the Food and Wine Festival, guests can grab a Garden Passport to track their culinary travels around the World Showcase. Show your passport at each booth and receive a stamp in your passport.

Weekend Concerts

During the festival, there will be a weekend concert series that includes many well-known recording artists. For 2015, artists like the Village People, Pablo Cruise, and the Gin Blossoms are scheduled to play.

Tips for Visiting Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

If you've never attended a festival at Epcot, it can be an overwhelming experience for first timers. If your schedule allows, plan on multiple days to fully experience the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival.

Weekends, especially during the springtime, can be busy. Wander the festival during the week and just come back on the weekend for a seminar or the concert series you're interested in.

If you are bringing children, there are plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained, but remember it's a big park so adjust your pace accordingly. Bring lots of sunblock, extra camera batteries, and a big appetite!

Is the Flower and Garden Festival on your bucket list?

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Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.