Epcot was the second of the four theme parks created at Walt Disney World resort near Orlando, Florida. Joining the Magic Kingdom theme park in 1982, Epcot is divided into two sections, Future World and the World Showcase. Each year, Epcot hosts three major events: the International Flower & Garden Festival, Holidays Around The World & The Candlelight Processional, and the International Food & Wine Festival.
The International Flower & Garden Festival is Epcot's kaleidoscopic celebration of springtime. The grounds of Epcot explode with brilliant colors during this tribute to the beauty of nature. Millions of flowers and verdant gardens transform Epcot into a gardener's paradise. Topiaries of Disney characters appeal to kids of all ages, and Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden surrounds guests with hundreds of multi-hued butterflies. On weekends during the festival, Garden Town Programs feature top horticulturists who demonstrate advanced gardening techniques and answer guests' questions. The festival also features workshops, behind-the-scenes garden tours, and live music events at the America Gardens Theatre, such as the Flower Power Concert Series. Festival events are included with admission to Epcot theme park, although availability is limited for certain events. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival generally runs from the beginning of March through mid-May. For specific dates, check the Epcot Special Events Schedule using the link given in the References section.
Holidays Around The World is Epcot's international celebration of the Yuletide season. Holiday traditions and customs from around the globe are on display in the World Showcase, all decked out with the decorations of the festive season. A highlight of Holidays Around The World is the spectacular Candlelight Processional, held nightly at the American Gardens Theatre. The Candlelight Processional is a moving retelling of the Christmas story, narrated by a guest celebrity and accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. This memorable celebration of the holiday season is held on select nights and often fills up quickly due to its popularity. To ensure a good seat for this special event, Epcot offers Candlelight Dinner Packages that include dinner at a participating World Showcase restaurant and reserved seating in a special viewing area for the Candlelight Processional and fireworks display. Candlelight Dinner Packages are not included in the park's admission fee. Holidays Around The World and the Candlelight Processional generally run from the end of November through the end of December. For specific dates, check the Epcot Special Events Schedule using the link given in the References section.
The International Food & Wine Festival is an annual autumn tradition for Epcot's epicurean guests. The festival transforms Epcot into a culinary paradise featuring a cornucopia of international fine foods, wines and beers. During the festival, special marketplace kiosks line the World Showcase Promenade and serve a tantalizing array of regional cuisine and drink. When you need a break from eating and sipping your way around the world, take in a cooking demonstration by a renowned chef, attend a wine seminar, or simply relax and enjoy a live musical performance, such as one of the Eat to the Beat concerts. Certain festival events are not included in the park's admission fee and require a separate fee to attend. The International Food & Wine Festival generally runs from the beginning of October through mid-November. For specific dates, check the Epcot Special Events Schedule using the link given in the References section.
