5 Reasons Why We Absolutely Love Walt Disney World’s Epcot

The Epcot of today does not even slightly resemble the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow that was originally envisioned by Walt Disney. His dream was for a living, working community. Still, there is a lot to love about the second theme park to open at Walt Disney World. Guests have a chance to get a glimpse into the future, and then enjoy other cultures from around the world. Here are five of the many things that we love about Epcot. We’re sure that you will love them as well.

5. Holidays

The holidays are special at Walt Disney World, and nowhere is that more evident than at Epcot. Starting right after Thanksgiving, guests can learn about holiday traditions in the World Showcase countries through Epcot International Festival of Holidays. Storytellers come to each pavilion, and talk about seasonal customs back home. There are special goodies for sale as well. The Christmas highlight for many is the Candlelight Processional, held three times most nights in the America Gardens Theater. A celebrity narrator tells the Biblical Christmas story, backed by an orchestra and a mass choir. It is a show that would give even Scrooge the holiday spirit.

4. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth

Note: Illuminations’ last show will be September 30, 2019. “Epcot Forever”, a temporary fireworks spectacular, will begin October 1. 

The nighttime shows at Walt Disney World are all unique and spectacular. When you end your day at Epcot, you’ll see IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. The show uses fireworks, lasers, music, and a giant floating globe to tell “The Story of Earth”. Grab your spot early along World Showcase Lagoon because the area does get crowded, especially on busy days. If you’d prefer, try to snag a dining reservation near the end of the evening a restaurant that is located along World Showcase Lagoon. Better yet, try the Frozen Ever After Sparkling Dessert Party. You’ll enjoy delicious international desserts and sparkling wine, while watching IllumiNations in a reserved viewing area.

3. Festivals

Four times a year Epcot holds special festivals that you will want to be a part of. The Epcot International Festival of Arts feature beautiful artwork, music, talents, plus tasty food and drinks. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival features topiaries of your favorite Disney characters, gardening demonstrations, concerts, special food and drink, and more. The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival allows you to eat and drink your way around the world. There are over 30 booths setup that feature food from countries not normally represented in World Showcase. Special events include cooking demonstrations, celebrity chefs, and the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.Finally, the Epcot International Festival of Holiday is a fun festival we mention above! The festivals are included with park admission, but some things cost extra. Premium packages are available.

2. Rides

While Epcot may not have as many rides as the Magic Kingdom, there are still a few classics in the park. This is where you can go hang gliding on Soarin’ or travel back in time through the history of communications with Spaceship Earth. If it’s speed that you’re looking for, you can find that on Test Track Presented by Chevrolet. If you want to visit space, try Mission: SPACE. The ride is not for the faint of heart, in fact it is so intense that two versions are offered. See favorite Frozen friends like Olaf, Elsa, Anna, Sven and Kristoff on Frozen Ever After. Some of the best rides at Walt Disney World can be found at Epcot. You’ll want to take advantage of FastPass+ so that you’re not stuck waiting in long lines.

1. Travel Around the World

Epcot gives you a chance to travel around the world in one day, without ever leaving Central Florida. When else will you be able to have breakfast in Norway, lunch in Morocco, and dinner in Canada? With World Showcase, you can experience 11 different cultures, all in one day. You’ll be able to enjoy some incredible food, do some shopping, and even talk to Cast Members who call the country’s pavilion home. There is remarkable live entertainment in several of the pavilions, and there are also some fun character meet and greets along the way. At Epcot, you can see the world in one day and still get the kids to sleep close to their normal bedtimes.