Category Events

Apr 7 2021

Family Fun At The 2021 Taste Of EPCOT International Flower And Garden Festival

With spring in full swing, the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival recently kicked off in Walt Disney World. From now through July 5, 2021, guests can enjoy bright blooms, delicious flavors, and tons of family fun throughout EPCOT. Here’s a glimpse of what you and your family can enjoy this spring during the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, courtesy of Disney:

  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower and Garden FestivalTopiaries Full of Disney Character: Throughout the park you’ll see gorgeous topiaries of Disney characters blooming to life in floral sculptures. Highlights will include Remy in the France pavilion, Tinker Bell and the Fairy Houses in the United Kingdom, Lady and the Tramp in Italy and Sorcerer Mickey at the park’s reimagined main entrance.
  • Gardens to Explore: Soak in the sights of spring in 20 different garden areas all across EPCOT, including floating gardens on the waters of Future World, a bamboo garden in China, a tropical rainforest garden in Mexico and the English Tea Garden Presented by Twinings of London in the United Kingdom (where you can also take a Self-Guided Tea Tour!). Another picturesque spot is The Goodness Garden Butterfly House Presented by GoGo squeeZ, where you can view a kaleidoscope of butterflies up close, in all their extraordinary color. And at Outdoor Escapes Presented by OFF! Repellents in Future World East, you can unwind in refreshing spaces that show you just how easy it is to create an outdoor escape for family and friends.
  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower and Garden FestivalOutdoor Kitchens Galore: Embark on a mouth-watering journey around the park and discover a smorgasbord of options, with more than 20 delectable stops to choose from. Each Outdoor Kitchen offers a specialty menu of creative cuisine and libations to savor and sip. We’ll have more details to share in an upcoming post about all the foodie fun you can expect this year.
  • Entertainment All Around: The festival features plenty of live music every day. Voices of Liberty perform an all-American a cappella showcase, celebrating the landscape, heart and human spirit of America, and Mariachi Cobre takes the stage for a performance of world-famous Mexican folk music. You can also tap your toes to the sound of the Jammin’ Gardeners, performing rhythmic beats with inspired backyard percussion, and head into World Showplace, where the EPCOT Pianist will be playing a selection of songs of the season.
  • Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden FestivalHealth Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth: Looking for inspiration, creativity and some youthful energy? At the Flavor Full Outdoor Kitchen and garden along the Imagination Walkway, the whole family can learn ways to stay healthy.
  • Family Fun with Scavenger Hunt: Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a springtime quest to find the buzzzz-iest honey bee at Walt Disney World Resort all around World Showcase.
  • Festival Memories: Commemorate your visit with official event merchandise, including apparel, headwear, drinkware and much more, featuring Orange Bird, Figment, Minnie Mouse and Spike the Bee.

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is included with park admission. With all that there is to see, do, and eat, you definitely won’t want to miss the fan favorite event!

Will you be attending the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival?
What are you most excited about? Please leave a comment!

Apr 6 2021

Celebrate Earth Week 2021 At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

With Earth Day right around the corner get ready to celebrate at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the Walt Disney World Resort. Running from April 18 through April 24, 2021, guests can enjoy exploring nature with many exciting experiences for the entire family during the annual Earth Week Celebration. Here’s what we know so far about this fun filled event, courtesy of Disney:

Disney's Animal KingdomWhile Disney theme parks celebrate all living things every day, during the upcoming Earth Week Celebration there’s an added opportunity for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park guests to connect with the magic of nature through engaging activities designed to educate and inspire the whole family.

From April 18 to 24, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will host limited-time experiences including unique Disney character appearances, fun learning opportunities, specialty merchandise, themed food and beverage, a new Wilderness Explorer activity and more.

  • The Animation Experience at Conservation Station shows how Disney Artists bring favorite characters to life by using animals for inspiration. For the Earth Week Celebration, guests can learn to draw characters – including Dumbo, Terk, Squirt, Shere Khan, Simba and Scar – whose real-life counterparts represent amazing stories of conservation work around the globe.
  • Guests can catch a glimpse of some special characters who will join other favorite Disney pals on Discovery River Character Cruises.
  • A sampling of Earth Week eats include a selection of limited-time specialty cupcakes: the Creature Comfort’s Honey Bee Cupcake, the strawberry-flavored Flamingo Cupcake at Flame Tree Barbecue or the Sea Turtle Graham Cracker Cupcake. Specialty beverages include The Red Crowned Crane, a frozen Coke topped with frozen Cherry Coke and strawberry cotton candy; adults can spice it up with Captain Morgan Rum.
  • A series of self-guided, nature-themed challenges invite guests to earn a special Wilderness Explorer limited-time Earth Day Nature badge.
  • Guests can hunt for an Earth Day 2021 limited-edition Te Fiti Moana trading pin, and also support the Disney Conservation Fund by purchasing a cuddly plush inspired by species that call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home; or check out Island Mercantile’s eco-friendly water bottles, tumblers and reusable bags that promote sustainability.
  • Any time guests visit the park, they can marvel at unique animals and meet the newest arrivals. Most recently, the park welcomed the birth of Ranger, and guests can get a glimpse of the rambunctious 5-month-old calf and his rhino family on a journey aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris. While on safari, guests can also keep an eye out for two young Masai giraffe who were born a few months ago, and playful Nigerian dwarf goats that hang out at the warden’s outpost.
  • Beginning April 2, guests can watch artisans transform 40 tons of sand into a detailed sculpture celebrating National Geographic’s “Secrets of the Whales,” an original series streaming on Disney+ on Earth Day. The intricate sculpted masterpiece will be located on the Discovery Island Stage until April 30.

Will you be celebrating Earth Week at Animal Kingdom?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

The World's Most Magical Celebration
Mar 19 2021

First Look At The World’s Most Magical Celebration

October 1, 2021 marks the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. To honor this monumental occasion, Disney is kicking off “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” filled with new experiences and enchanting enhancements for guests to enjoy. Here are the first details of what we can expect during this 18-month resort wide event, courtesy of Disney:

The World's Most Magical CelebrationOn October 1, 1971, Walt Disney World Resort officially opened to guests for the first time, the culmination of years spent imagining, planning and developing Walt Disney’s magical dream. In the five decades since, the vacation destination continued to expand with new stories and characters and adventures to cherish for a lifetime. And now with a major milestone approaching, guests can share in “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” beginning October 1, 2021, in honor of the resort’s 50th anniversary.

This 18-month celebratory event will feature new experiences at the resort’s four theme parks and beyond, where shimmering EARidescent décor will appear as if by magic. Shining at the center of it all will be Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park, which will add to its royal makeover from 2020 with new gold bunting, sparkling golden embellishments and other new enhancements, including a 50th anniversary crest warmly welcoming guests to the join the festivities.

Beacons of Magic at All Four Walt Disney World Theme Parks

As part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” icons at each Walt Disney World theme park will transform into magnificent Beacons of Magic at night, coming to life with their own EARidescent glow.

  • Cinderella Castle will illuminate Magic Kingdom with a dazzling radiance that sparkles with pixie dust.
  • At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, a warm light will emanate from the Tree of Life as magical fireflies gather to usher in the magic of nature.
  • The Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be awash in a brilliance evoking the golden age of imagination and adventure.
  • And at EPCOT, new lights will shine across the reflective panels of Spaceship Earth, connecting to one another in a symbol of optimism resembling stars in a nighttime sky. The iconic structure’s permanent new lighting will continue beyond “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” as a defining feature of the park.

Mickey and Minnie: Dressed for the Occasion

The World's Most Magical CelebrationAs hosts of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be dressed in sparkling new looks, custom-made for this special occasion. Highlights of these celebratory designs include beautifully embroidered impressions of Cinderella Castle backed by fireworks, as well as a brocade in multi-toned, EARidescent fabric – all punctuated with pops of gold.

Joining Mickey and Minnie, Walt Disney World cast members will be at the heart of this event. They will demonstrate yet again why they are renowned for their commitment to service, consistently exceeding guests’ expectations by going above and beyond to make visits to The Most Magical Place on Earth special.

Heading to Disney World?

501 WaysIf you are planning a vacation to Disney World during the holiday season, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be visiting during “The World’s Most Magical Celebration?”
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Mar 12 2021

First Details Of The 2021 Taste Of EPCOT International Flower And Garden Festival

With spring only a few days away, the Taste of EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival just kicked off in Walt Disney World. From now through July 5, 2021, guests can enjoy bright blooms and delicious flavors throughout the park. Recently Disney gave us a sneak peek into what we can expect this time around, here are the details:

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival blossoms to life at Walt Disney World Resort, continuing for 125 days until July 5, 2021. The park-wide event features fun for the whole family inspired by the season, from spectacular Disney character topiaries to lush gardens to fresh flavors from Outdoor Kitchens and more.

Discover Topiaries Full of Disney Character

Nearly 100 individual topiaries bloom across the park, including floral sculptures of Disney characters as well as fanciful gardens. Highlights include:

  • Sorcerer Mickey Mouse at the park’s main entrance
  • Lady and the Tramp in the Italy pavilion
  • Anna and Elsa in the Norway pavilion
  • Remy in the France pavilion
  • Tinker Bell and the Fairy Houses in the United Kingdom pavilion

Gardens Are Flowering and Ready to Explore

Guests can soak in the sights of spring in 20 different garden areas all across EPCOT, including:

  • English Tea Garden Presented by Twinings of London in the United Kingdom pavilion, which also offers a Self-Guided Tea Tour.
  • The Goodness Garden Butterfly House Presented by GoGo squeeZ, offering a kaleidoscopic view of butterflies up close, in all their extraordinary color.
  • Growing the Future Presented by Murata Electronics, a fun and fascinating experience exploring how cutting-edge technology paired with agricultural science can transform the future (beginning April 3).
  • Health Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth, where those looking for inspiration, creativity and some youthful energy learn ways to stay healthy.
  • Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board, where guests learn about honey bees’ critical role in the environment while enjoying sweet and savory treats made possible by their hard work.
  • Outdoor Escapes Presented by OFF! Repellents, a rustic terrace for guests to unwind and find inspiration to create refreshing outdoor spaces for family and friends.

Outdoor Kitchens Feature Fresh Food and Drink

Guests can embark on a mouth-watering journey around the park to experience a smorgasbord of options, with more than 20 delectable stops to choose from. Each Outdoor Kitchen offers a specialty menu of creative cuisine and libations to savor and sip. New options this year include:

  • EPCOT Sunshine Griddle, offering Avocado Toast, Shrimp and Grits, Corned Beef Brisket Hash and more
  • EPCOT Farmers Feast, featuring Spring Onion Soup, Duck Confit and more
  • The Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board
  • Impossible Sausage and Kale Soup at Trowel & Trellis Hosted by Impossible Foods
  • Lemon-Orange Smoothie in a new Orange Bird sipper cup at The Citrus Blossom
  • Bayou Cocktail at Magnolia Terrace
  • Maple Popcorn Shake at Northern Bloom

Live Music Abounds Throughout the Festival

Fans of live entertainment will have plenty to enjoy this year as music springs to life around World Showcase.

  • ­New this year, featured musical groups from the Orlando area perform songs of yesterday and today at America Gardens Theatre every Friday through Monday of the festival.
  • Voices of Liberty perform an all-American a cappella showcase at America Gardens Theatre, celebrating the landscape, heart and human spirit of America.
  • Mariachi Cobre takes the America Gardens Theatre stage for performances of world-famous Mexican folk music.
  • The Jammin’ Gardeners play rhythmic beats with inspired backyard percussion on the Mill Stage at the Canada pavilion.
  • In World Showplace, the EPCOT Pianist plays a selection of popular songs ideal for springtime.

Scavenger Hunts Offer Family Fun

Special themed scavenger hunts encourage guests to explore the festival and provide a fun way for families and friends to spend their day at the park.

  • Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration – Gardeners of all ages follow Spike on his pollination trail, where he will be busy as a bee collecting nectar and pollinating gardens throughout EPCOT. (Map purchase required, available while supplies last at select retail locations.)
  • Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt (Beginning March 19) – Guests set out on a delightful hunt across the park for decorative eggs inspired by Disney characters. (Map purchase required, available while supplies last at select retail locations for a limited time.)
  • Garden Graze – Guests who purchase five festival menu items from select locations receive a complimentary commemorative keepsake; guests can pick up a Festival Passport to get started.

Festival Merchandise Showcases Favorite Characters

Guests can commemorate their visit with official event merchandise, including apparel, headwear, drinkware and more.

  • Orange Bird welcomes the sunshine with all things yellow, orange and white in a bright collection of apparel, drinkware and a headband.
  • Spike the Bee offers sweet reminders of festival fun, featured on apparel, drinkware and an adorable garden stake.
  • Minnie Mouse lives life in full bloom with a collection of apparel, headwear, garden accessories and MagicBand.
  • Figment brings sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo and repurposed paper to a collection featuring apparel, accessories and more.

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is included with park admission (Disney Park Pass reservation required for entry). 

501 WaysHeading to Disney World this Spring?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be attending the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival?
What are you most excited about? Please leave a comment!

Jan 13 2021

Enjoy The Wonderful Walk Of Colorful Cuisine At EPCOT

The Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is going on now at Walt Disney World! If you’re like me, one of your favorites parts of any EPCOT festival are the food booths throughout the park. This year, there are more than 15 Food Studios throughout EPCOT offering delicious, art-inspired food and drink created by Disney chefs. If you are wondering how you are going to possibly eat it all, check out the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine to enjoy a sampling and score a reward. Here’s the scoop on this scrumptious stroll, courtesy of Disney:

Take a walk on the delicious side when you embark on the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine at Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts now through February 22, 2021.

Purchase 5 vibrant food items to receive a technicolor treat during this delectable experience.

Use your Festival Passport as your guide to look for specially notated menu items and track your progress by collecting a stamp after each purchase. Once you’ve savored 5 artistic dishes to collect 5 stamps, visit Decadent Delights to claim your reward.

Featured foods on the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine:

  • Red: Remy’s Ratatouille with Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Tomatoes, and Red Pepper Piperade — located at Festival Favorites
  • Blue: Blue Corn Pupusa stuffed with Cheese and topped with Shredded Pork, Guajillo and Árbol Chile Sauce, Cabbage Slaw, and Aji Amarillo Crema – located at Vibrante & Vívido Food Studio.
  • Green: Pistachio Cake with Cherry Mousse and Morello Cherries — located at The Painter’s Palate
  • Pink: Vanilla, Rose Water, and Pistachio Panna Cotta — located at Masterpiece Kitchen
  • Orange: Mouskoutchou: Orange Cake with Cinnamon-Orange Chocolate Mousse — located at Mosaic Canteen
  • Reward: The Artist Palette Cookie

This activity is fun for all ages and can be completed at your own leisure. You can bring your stamped Passport to Epcot at any time during the Festival of the Arts to complete your stroll.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be attending the Festival of the Arts?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!