The Best of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2025

February 5, 2025

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is an annual celebration of creativity, bringing together visual, culinary, and performing arts for an immersive experience. Held at Walt Disney World, this festival transforms the park into a vibrant showcase of artistic expression, featuring live performances, interactive art installations, and diverse festival-exclusive food and beverage offerings. Whether you are a foodie, an art lover, or a Disney fan, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit event each year.

This year, the Festival of the Arts runs from January 17 to February 24, 2025, and is included with EPCOT park admission, though food, beverages, and select experiences require an additional cost. During this time, culinary enthusiasts can indulge in artfully crafted dishes at various food studios, while music lovers can enjoy the Disney on Broadway Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre, featuring performances by renowned Broadway stars. The festival offers a vibrant and enriching experience for visitors of all ages, making it a highlight of the winter season at Walt Disney World. I visited a few times this year to try some incredible dishes, see stunning performances, and participate in fun, hands-on activities. Here are some of my favorite highlights from this year’s festival!

Be sure to pick up a Festival Passport at the park entrances or any of the festival booths. This handy guide lists all the food studio menus and locations, entertainment, showtimes, and activities, making it easy to plan your day and check off everything you want to experience at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. It also includes details regarding the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, a fun foodie challenge featuring five vibrant dishes from select festival booths. Each time you purchase one of the designated dishes, you will receive a stamp in your passport. Once you have collected all five stamps, bring your completed passport to the designated redemption location to receive a special festival-exclusive treat as a reward for completing the walk!

Favorite Festival Food Studios

One of the most exciting parts of the Festival of the Arts is the incredible selection of food studios scattered throughout EPCOT. These culinary stations offer beautifully crafted dishes that are just as much works of art as they are delicious treats. From savory bites to sweet indulgences, each food studio showcases flavors inspired by different cultures and artistic themes. Many dishes are exclusive to the festival, making it a fantastic opportunity to try something new. Below are some of my favorite food studios and dishes from this year’s festival!

Opening Bits – CommuniCore Plaza (NEW!)

– Showstopping Delights –

NEW! Soft Shell Crab Slider: Green papaya slaw and mango ketchup on toasted brioche. ($7.50, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Cheddar and Chive Scone: with Smoked Salmon Salad topped with Crème Fraîche and Caviar. ($7.50, DDP Snack Eligible)

One of my favorite food studios at this year’s festival was Opening Bits at CommuniCore Plaza, a brand-new addition serving up showstopping delights. The Soft Shell Crab Slider was a standout. I loved it so much that I had to get it on two different occasions attending the Festival. The crispy crab paired perfectly with the refreshing green papaya slaw and the slight sweetness of the mango ketchup, all nestled in a soft, toasted brioche bun. I was also a fan of the Cheddar and Chive Scone with smoked salmon salad. It was a hearty portion, rich and flavorful, with a slight saltiness that may have come from the caviar topping. Overall, both dishes were delicious and made this food studio a must-visit!

The Craftsman’s Courtyard – Walkway Between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion

– Cuisine Constructed with the Natural Aesthetics of the Arts and Crafts Movement –

NEW! Beef Wellington-inspired Croissant Supreme – with Creamed Spinach Croissant Pinwheel, Mushroom-Gorgonzola Ragout, Mustard-grilled Flank Steak, Red Wine Sauce, and Pickled Mustard Seeds. ($8.50, DDP Snack Eligible)
Cast Iron-roasted P.E.I. Mussels – with Sautéed Tomatoes, Garlic, and Fresh Herbs. ($8.00, DDP Snack Eligible)

The Craftsman’s Courtyard was another food studio that truly impressed me with its rich, flavorful dishes. The Beef Wellington-inspired Croissant Supreme was a generous portion and delicious. The combination of the flaky croissant pinwheel with creamed spinach, the earthy mushroom-gorgonzola ragout, and the perfectly grilled flank steak made for a bold and satisfying bite. The red wine sauce and pickled mustard seeds tied everything together beautifully. Another returning standout to the Festival was the Cast Iron-roasted P.E.I. Mussels— fresh from the grill, incredibly fresh, and full of flavor. This dish is one of my sister’s favorites! The sautéed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs created a perfect balance that complimented the mussels without overpowering them. Both dishes made this food studio a must-visit for me at this year’s festival!

Pop Eats – Near Port of Entry Featuring Pandora Jewelry

– Mouthwatering Masterpieces inspired by pop art of the twentieth century –

Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese ($6.00, DDP Snack Eligible)
Tomato Soup – with Pimento Cheese, Bacon, and Fried Green Tomato Grilled Cheese ($6.75, DDP Snack Eligible)

Pop Eats is a classic festival favorite, and for good reason! Their signature Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese is a comforting, must-try dish that always delivers. This was my first time trying this food studio, and I preferred the simplicity of the classic grilled cheese. It had perfectly crispy bread and melty cheese pairing beautifully with the rich, creamy tomato soup. However, the Pimento Cheese, Bacon, and Fried Green Tomato Grilled Cheese was a hit with my family. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy pimento cheese, and the crispy fried green tomato added a fun twist to the traditional version. Whether you stick with the classic or opt for the bold flavors of the upgraded version, you really cannot go wrong at this food studio!

Swirled Showcase – Walkway Between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion

NEW! Bubble Gum Soft-serve in a Cone ($6.50, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Imagination Cone – Bubblegum soft-serve in a Lavender Cone, “Sparks” of Imagination, and White Chocolate Wings ($6.75, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Candy Trio Flight – DOLE Whip Strawberry with STARBURST MINIS fruit chews, DOLE Whip Lemon with SKITTLES POP’d Freeze Dried Candy, and DOLE Whip Lime with chili-lime seasoning and LIFE SAVERS gummies – ($8.00, DDP Snack Eligible)

Swirled Showcase was a surprise hit for me at this year’s festival, serving up some of my favorite sweet treats. As a longtime bubble gum ice cream fan, I absolutely loved both the Bubble Gum Soft-serve and the Imagination Cone. If I had to choose between the two, I would go with the regular bubble gum soft-serve in a plain cone—the flavor was perfectly nostalgic, and I preferred it without the slightly sour contrast of the “Sparks” of Imagination Nerds candy in the Imagination Cone. However, if you are looking for a fun, colorful festival photo, the Imagination Cone is the way to go! Another standout at this booth was the Candy Trio Flight, a playful and shareable treat featuring DOLE Whip flavors with fun candy pairings. My favorite was the strawberry with STARBURST MINIS, but all three were a creative and tasty twist on a festival dessert!

Vibrante & Vívido – Between France and Morocco Pavilions

– Authentic Colombian cuisine inspired by the Disney animated film, Encanto –

Chorizo and Potato Empanada – with Tumertic Aïoli and Annatto Aïoli. ($6.75, DDP Snack Eligible)
Spicy Ajiaco Soup ($6.00) – with Guajillo and Árbol Chili -spiced Chicken, Potato, Avocado, Corn, and Crème Fraîche. ($6.00, DDP Snack Eligible)
Passion Fruit-filled Mango Cheesecake – with Coconut-Pineapple Cake, Dragon Fruit Gelée, and Dragon Fruit-Strawberry Sauce. ($5.25, DDP Snack Eligible)

Vibrante & Vívido is always a must-visit food studio for me, and the Chorizo and Potato Empanada is something I order every year. It is crispy, flavorful, and paired with delicious turmeric and annatto aïolis that elevate it even more. If the weather is on the cooler side (which thankfully, it was), I will also grab the Spicy Ajiaco Soup. It has a bold heat, but the combination of spiced chicken, potatoes, avocado, and corn makes it a hearty and satisfying option. Together, these two dishes make for a light yet filling meal for under $13. I also tried the Passion Fruit-filled Mango Cheesecake, which was fruity and mildly sweet. While it was enjoyable, I am not sure I would order it again—but if you love tropical flavors, it is worth trying!

Tangerine Café: Flavors of the Medina – Morocco Pavilion

– A Tapestry of North African Flavors Fresh from Morocco –

Grilled Kebabs – with Carrot-Chickpea Salad and Garlic Aïoli. Available with Chermoula Chicken or Moroccan-spiced Lamb. ($6.25, DDP Snack Eligible)
Stone-baked Moroccan Bread – with Assorted Dips. ($5.25, DDP Snack Eligible)

Tangerine Café: Flavors of the Medina consistently serves up some of my favorite festival dishes, and the Chicken Grilled Kebab is an absolute must for me every year. Luckily for me and fans of this food studio, they also have been serving this at the other EPCOT festivals! The chicken is always incredibly juicy and tender, and it pairs perfectly with the bright, flavorful Carrot-Chickpea Salad and creamy garlic aïoli. I also tried the Stone-baked Moroccan Bread with Assorted Dips, which had great flavors, but I found the bread-to-dip ratio a little off—there just was not enough bread for all the delicious sauces. Pro tip: If you are planning to visit the France Pavilion, grab a fresh baguette to go! We happened to have one when we reached this booth, and it was perfect for finishing off the dips.

Goshiki – Japan Pavilion

– Delectable Dishes Featuring “the Five Colors” of Japanese Cuisine –

Sushi Donut – Donut-shaped Sushi featuring Salmon, Tuna, Shrimp, Cucumber, and Sesame Seed over a decorated plate of Wasabi Aïoli, Sriracha Aïoli, and Eel Sauce. ($8.75, DDP Snack Eligible

The Sushi Donut from Goshiki in the Japan Pavilion is an absolute must-eat for me every year! Not only is it one of the most visually stunning dishes at the festival, but it is also packed with incredible flavor. The combination of fresh salmon, tuna, and shrimp with crisp cucumber and sesame seeds creates a perfect bite every time. The trio of sauces—wasabi aïoli, sriracha aïoli, and eel sauce—adds just the right balance of spice, sweetness, and umami, making this a standout dish that I always look forward to ordering again.

Festival Favorites I Did Not Get to Try (But Wanted To!)

NEW! Chicken “Pot Pie” – located at The Artist’s Table in the American Adventure. Chicken “Pot Pie” with Smoked Cheddar Mornay Sauce, Roasted Vegetables, Pickled Mushrooms, Wasabi Peas, and Sherry-Chicken Jus served open-faced on flaky Pie Crust. ($6.75, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Squid Ink Pasta with Lump Crab – located at Fictional Victuals near Disney Traders. Squid Ink Pasta with Lump Crab, Truffle Cream, and Shaved Truffle ($7.75, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Charred Octopus – located at Fictional Victuals near Disney Traders. Charred Octopus with Crushed Fingerling Potatoes, Kalamata Olives, Capers, and Romesco Sauce. ($7.75, DDP Snack Eligible)
NEW! Caprese Poutine – located at the Refreshment Port near Canada. Caprese Poutine with Tuscan-spiced French Fries, Confit Tomatoes, Slivered Garlic, Mozzarella Pearls, Basil Pesto, Shaved Pecorino, and Balsamic Glaze. ($8.50, DDP Snack Eligible)

There were a few dishes on my must-try list that I, unfortunately, did not get to this year, but they are definitely on my radar for the future! The Chicken “Pot Pie” at The Artist’s Table sounded like a creative twist on a comfort classic, with its smoked cheddar mornay sauce and pickled mushrooms adding an elevated touch. Over at Fictional Victuals, both the Squid Ink Pasta with Lump Crab and Charred Octopus caught my attention—truffle cream and shaved truffle in a seafood dish? Yes, please! And I love a good octopus dish, so I was curious how the flavors of olives, capers, and romesco would come together. Lastly, the Caprese Poutine at Refreshment Port sounded like a unique fusion of Italian and Canadian flavors, with Tuscan-spiced fries, mozzarella pearls, and balsamic glaze. I will definitely be prioritizing these dishes if they return for next year’s Festival of the Arts.

Entertainment & Activities: Fun for Kids of All Ages

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is more than just food and performances—it is an interactive celebration where guests of all ages can unleash their creativity and immerse themselves in the magic of art. From hands-on experiences to unique exhibits, there are plenty of ways to engage with the festival beyond simply admiring the artwork. Whether admiring the incredible chalk art galleries, contributing to a massive paint-by-numbers mural, or exploring the creativity behind Disney’s Broadway productions, these activities bring the festival to life in a fun and memorable way.

NEW! Once Upon a Stage: 30 Years of Disney on Broadway – CommuniCore Hall

A brand-new addition to this year’s Festival of the Arts, Once Upon a Stage: 30 Years of Disney on Broadway at CommuniCore Hall is a must-see for Disney and theater fans alike. This interactive experience celebrates three decades of Disney’s presence on Broadway, showcasing the magic of stage productions through behind-the-scenes insights, stunning costumes, and memorable musical moments. Whether you are a lifelong Broadway enthusiast or love the music from Disney’s iconic stage adaptations, this exhibit offers a fun and engaging way to immerse yourself in the artistry that brings these beloved stories to life. Perfect for all ages, it is a fantastic way to step into the world of Disney theater while exploring the festival!

Expression Section: A Paint-By-Numbers-Mural – Walkway between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion

The Expression Section: A Paint-By-Numbers Mural is one of the most interactive and engaging experiences at the Festival of the Arts, allowing guests of all ages to contribute to a larger-than-life work of art. Located along the walkway between the World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion, this hands-on activity runs daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Guests have the opportunity to paint one of four different murals, with a new design replacing each completed piece. Each participant is given a brush, a small cup of paint, and a designated number to fill in, gradually bringing the vibrant artwork to life. Once you have added your strokes to the masterpiece, a Cast Member will hand you a bookmark featuring the completed design as a keepsake of your artistic contribution. It is a fun and creative way to leave your mark on the festival, and seeing the finished mural take shape is incredibly rewarding. Whether you are an aspiring artist or just looking for a unique festival memory, this collaborative experience is not to be missed!

Chalk Art Galleries – Bridge to World Showcase

The Chalk Art Galleries on the bridge to the World Showcase is a must-see attraction at the Festival of the Arts, showcasing an incredible blend of talent, creativity, and illusion. Throughout the festival, skilled artists transform the pavement into breathtaking chalk masterpieces, ranging from vibrant Disney-inspired pieces to stunning 3D illusions that seem to pop right off the ground. Each visit offers something new, as the artwork changes frequently, making it worth stopping by multiple times during the festival. Guests can watch these talented artists at work, seeing their creations come to life stroke by stroke. It is a fantastic opportunity to appreciate temporary yet awe-inspiring art while snapping some truly unique photos. If you can make it over to this section of the park at sunset, the views of the park are incredible, with the golden light reflecting off the World Showcase Lagoon, making for an extra magical experience. The Chalk Art Galleries bring an ever-evolving creative energy to the festival, adding a unique and immersive artistic element to EPCOT.

Disney Artist Gallery – throughout Port of Entry and the World Showcase

The Disney Artist Gallery, located throughout EPCOT, is a celebration of creativity and storytelling, featuring an incredible collection of artwork created by Disney artists. From classic interpretations of beloved characters to whimsical and edgy reimaginings, this gallery showcases a diverse range of styles that appeal to every art lover. Guests can browse stunning pieces, many of which are available for purchase, and even meet some of the talented artists behind the work. With nostalgic hand-painted scenes and bold contemporary designs, this ever-evolving exhibit adds an extra layer of artistic magic to the Festival of the Arts, making it a must-visit for Disney fans and art enthusiasts alike.

Disney on Broadway Concert Series – America Pavilion

The Disney on Broadway Concert Series at the America Pavilion is a festival highlight, bringing the magic of Broadway to EPCOT with live performances from talented Disney on Broadway stars. Featuring an ever-changing lineup of performers, the series showcases beloved songs from iconic Disney musicals, including The Lion King, Aladdin, Frozen, and more. Each night, the pavilion comes alive with powerful vocals and unforgettable melodies, creating a truly immersive experience for theater lovers and Disney fans alike. With multiple showtimes throughout the evening, it is the perfect opportunity to sit back, enjoy world-class entertainment, and sing along to some of Disney’s most beloved show tunes.

I saw the show twice, each time with different performers. One night featured Frozen stars Patti Murin and John Riddle, while another night showcased Caissie Levy (Frozen) and Jelani Remy (The Lion King). Both shows were fantastic! I attended one performance at 8:00 PM, which was perfect timing to watch and then secure a spot for Luminous to end the night. The other was at 5:30 PM, right at sunset, making for a beautiful and memorable experience. With an ever-changing lineup, this series showcases beloved songs from iconic Disney musicals, creating a truly immersive experience for theater lovers and Disney fans alike.

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is a truly unique celebration that blends creativity, flavor, and performance into an unforgettable experience. Whether you come for the beautifully plated dishes, the mesmerizing chalk art, or the incredible Disney on Broadway performances, there is no shortage of inspiration to be found. Each visit offers something new to discover, from interactive activities to stunning galleries and show-stopping entertainment. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it remains a must-visit event for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of art at Walt Disney World. I cannot wait to see what next year’s festival has in store!

For more detailed information and updates about the festival, visit the official EPCOT International Festival of the Arts website here.

Have you ever been to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?

Let me know what you loved most about the Festival or what is on your Festival bucket list in the comments below!