EPCOT mornings have always had their own personality. Some guests rope-drop Guardians of the Galaxy, others head straight for a pastry in France, and some simply enjoy the quiet walk around World Showcase before the day fills with activity. But now, that calm start to the day comes with something EPCOT hasn’t had in years—live marching bands making their way around the lagoon again.
For the first time since before COVID, EPCOT has officially brought back its morning marching band performances, and the return has instantly breathed new life into the early hours of the park. These aren’t small pop-up acts either—these are full high school marching bands, uniforms and all, performing through Disney’s Imagination Campus program.
Before the pandemic, this was a familiar EPCOT sight. Students from around the country would travel to Walt Disney World to perform, stepping off from The American Adventure pavilion and looping around the entire lagoon. It added a fun rhythm to the mornings, a little spark of energy before the festival crowds arrived. When COVID hit, the program was paused, and year after year passed without any sign it was coming back.
That’s why this return feels so significant. EPCOT has changed in countless ways these last few years, but this comeback brings back a piece of the park that long-time guests remember fondly. Suddenly, early World Showcase mornings don’t feel as quiet. As the bands march by—there are three of them performing most days—guests stop, smile, record videos, and soak up the unexpected music. Even those who didn’t know this was once an EPCOT tradition instantly understand why people are excited.
It’s also a big deal for the students participating. Marching at EPCOT is a milestone moment, something many young performers dream about. Being able to step into that experience again, especially after years of uncertainty, makes the whole tradition feel even more meaningful.
And from a guest perspective, it just fits the park. EPCOT has always been about culture, music, and creativity. Seeing these bands back in action adds a layer of authenticity that can’t be recreated with speakers or background loops. Live music changes the entire atmosphere.
As EPCOT continues to evolve, welcoming back this long-paused tradition is a reminder that some of the most memorable Disney moments aren’t tied to massive attractions—they’re tied to real people sharing real experiences. And now, EPCOT mornings finally sound like they used to again.
