Get Your Stretchy Pants Ready for the 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival
The dates are officially set, and the countdown to the most delicious time of the year has begun. Disney just confirmed that the 2026 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival will run from August 27th through November 21st, 2026. While we’re still waiting for the full lineup of the 30-plus global marketplaces, we already have confirmation on three iconic snacks that are making a triumphant return to the park.
The Big Three: Returning Snacks You Can’t Miss
If you’re already planning your strategy for the 2026 season, you’ll be happy to know that some of the most talked-about treats from previous years are coming back. Here’s what has been confirmed so far:
- Street Corn-style Dumplings (Gyozas of the Galaxy): These chicken dumplings were a massive hit and they’re bringing back that perfect blend of flavors. Expect them to be topped with tomatillo salsa verde, a fresh street corn salad, cotija cheese, lime crema, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Grilled Bushberry-Spiced Shrimp Skewer (Australia): A staple of the Australia booth, this skewer features a sweet-and-sour vegetable medley and a signature coconut-chili sauce that provides just the right amount of kick.
- Kirschwasser Torte (The Alps): For those with a sweet tooth, this decadent dessert is returning. It features cherry-brandy buttercream, smooth fondant, sugared almonds, and a tart cherry compote that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Why the 2026 Festival Schedule Matters
The 2026 festival dates follow a similar pattern to recent years, kicking off in late August and wrapping up just before the Thanksgiving holiday. This nearly three-month window gives you plenty of time to visit, but keep in mind that Disney has noted phased openings for some booths. This means not every marketplace will be open on day one, so if you have a specific dish in mind, you’ll want to check the official schedule closer to your travel dates.
Beyond the food, fans can expect the return of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre and the popular Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt, which is a great way to keep the younger ones entertained while the adults sample the global cuisine.
Expert Planning Tips for Your 2026 Visit
- Start Early: Booths typically open at 11:00 AM. If you start your day at the front of the park using a Lightning Lane Multi Pass for attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, you can time your arrival at the World Showcase right as the food starts serving.
- Budget with Gift Cards: One of the easiest ways to track your spending is by using a wearable Disney Gift Card. You can reload it at most merchandise locations throughout the park.
- Check the App: The My Disney Experience app is your best friend during the festival. It will list full menus and indicate which items are part of Emile’s Fromage Montage, the festival’s dedicated cheese crawl.
Whether you’re a local regular or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, the 2026 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival is shaping up to be a showcase of both new innovation and beloved classics. We’ll be keeping a close eye on further booth announcements as the summer approach!
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.