Spring in Central Florida means that the flowers are in bloom over at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort. From farm-to-table treats to classic tunes, here are 4 reasons to visit the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.
1. The Flowers
Nature comes alive each spring in Florida and the Epcot Florida & Garden Festival is a great place to see it all. The stars of the festival are the flowers and you’ll find them all around Epcot. Here are some spots you’ll won't want to miss on your visit:
The Floating Mini-Gardens, 225 planters drifting on the lakes between Future World and World Showcase, are perfect for a photo, especially if you manage to catch the monorail in the shot.
Over 100 topiaries are created especially for the festival, with many taking the forms of popular Disney characters like Anna and Elsa from “Frozen.” These incredible living statues are located all around World Showcase and Future World, so be sure to grab a Garden Passport so you know where to find your favorite character.
Insider Tip: Want to lean more about what it takes to put on the festival? Check out the Gardens of the World Tour, a 3-hour tour that explores what goes into landscaping for the festival.
2. The Food & Drinks
Like the wildly popular Epcot International Food & Wine Festival held each fall, the Flower & Garden Festival brings the flavors of spring to guests with 13 outdoor kitchens. Here’s a small taste of what to expect:
Sample some smoked swine at The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews where you can slample freshly smoked pork ribs as well as beef brisket while washing it down with Florida craft brews.
Savor the slings of the Sunshine State at the Fresh Florida kitchen which features locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients and great eats like shrimp and stone-ground grits with andouille sausage.
Insider Tip: It’s hard to keep track of everything you eat and drink along the way, so be sure to grab a Garden Passport when you arrive. It’s also a good idea to take a look at the food and wine offerings the day before you visit so you can pick out what you want to try in advance. Plan your day accordingly, as some of the food lines can get a little long.
3. Special Kids Activities
Aside from the usual attractions at Epcot, there’s plenty for kids to do during the Flower & Garden Festival.
The Butterflies on the Go exhibit gives guests of all ages a chance to get up close to several species of butterflies. And if you’re really still, one may land on you.
The festival has two interactive play areas, including Cactus Road Rally located near Test Track. Fans of the "Cars" films will recognize the topiaries of Lightning McQueen and Mater before entering the colorful play area.
Insider Tip: Need to take a break and let the kids run out some energy? The festival play areas have covered spaces with chairs for the parents.
4. The Music
The Gardens Rocks Concert Series features the musical hits of yesteryear with classic groups like the Village People, The Guess Who and Herman’s Hermits. The live performances take place in the evenings at 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 every Saturday and Sunday during the Flower & Garden Festival.
Insider Tip: While the concerts are included with admission to Epcot, the limited seating at America Gardens Theatre can fill up fast. Be sure to arrive early so you can get a great seat.
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