Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Returns to Walt Disney World in Orlando

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival has returned to Walt Disney World in Orlando, drawing crowds eager to sample global cuisines served at marketplaces around World Showcase and the park's other neighborhoods. Florida Today reporters spent time walking the festival, weighing dishes and beverages across dozens of booths, and comparing notes on their standout selections.

Why the Festival Draws Crowds Each Year

The annual event transforms Epcot into one of the largest tasting events in Central Florida. Guests can purchase small plates and drinks from regional marketplaces representing countries and culinary traditions from around the world. Live music, themed merchandise and culinary demonstrations round out the experience, making it a fixture on the fall calendar for both tourists and local residents.

How Reporters Narrowed Down Their Favorites

Rather than picking a single winner, the team approached the festival the way many guests do: by sharing bites, debating flavors and revisiting a few booths for second opinions. Highlights ranged from richer, slow-cooked meats to lighter seafood plates and frozen desserts suited to Orlando's warm weather.

• Small plates were judged on portion, price and how well they reflected the cuisine they represented.
• Sweet and frozen items earned attention for their value, especially on hotter days.
• Beverages, including non-alcoholic options, were noted for pairing with the food offerings.
• Booths that handled long lines efficiently ranked higher in the overall experience.

Planning a Visit

The festival typically runs from late summer through the fall, with most marketplaces open during park hours. Guests entering Epcot with valid admission can buy tasting items using a linked dining credit, though individual food and beverage purchases also work. Visitors planning a trip often pair the festival with other Walt Disney World experiences, including new attractions and seasonal entertainment across the resort.

For those still weighing their itinerary, related coverage offers a look at upcoming additions to Walt Disney World, recent construction progress at nearby Disney Springs, and Disney-themed performances elsewhere in the region.