Get Ready to Taste the World
It feels like we’re just getting into the swing of the Flower and Garden Festival, but Disney is already looking ahead to the most anticipated culinary event of the year. The official dates for the 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival have been released, and it’s time to start narrowing down your travel plans for the fall. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, this festival is a massive undertaking that transforms the park into a global marketplace.
The Key Dates for Your 2026 Trip
The 2026 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival will officially kick off on August 27th and run through November 21st, 2026. This gives guests nearly three full months to explore the various booths and entertainment offerings scattered throughout World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery, and the iconic World Showcase. If you’re looking to beat the heaviest crowds, the earlier weeks in September often provide a bit more breathing room, though you’ll want to prepare for that late-summer Florida heat.
Confirmed Eats and Activities
Disney has already given us a sneak peek at what’s returning to the menu this year. While the full list of Marketplace booths hasn’t dropped yet, we know a few fan-favorite bites are making a comeback. You can look forward to the Street Corn-style Dumplings and the Grilled Bushberry Spiced Shrimp Skewer returning to the lineup.
For those who love a bit of a challenge with their snacks, two popular festival staples are officially confirmed:
- Remy’s Ratatouille Hide ‘n’ Squeak: This family-friendly scavenger hunt is back. You’ll search for hidden Remy statuettes throughout World Showcase. Once you’ve marked them all on your map, you can redeem it for a festival-themed prize.
- Emile’s Fromage Montage: The ultimate cheese crawl returns. If you purchase five specific cheese-based dishes listed in your Festival Passport and collect the stamps, you’ll earn a unique prize.
Live Music and Entertainment
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is also confirmed to return to the American Gardens Theater. While the specific 2026 lineup hasn’t been fully revealed, Disney has promised a mix of popular bands from the 80s, 90s, and the 2000s. These performances are a great way to take a break from the crowds and enjoy some live music in the heart of the American Adventure Pavilion.
Planning Your Festival Strategy
Attending a festival of this scale requires a bit of a game plan. With hundreds of bites and sips available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. We recommend grabbing a Festival Passport as soon as you enter the park to track the items you want to try most. Since the festival runs during a time when crowds can fluctuate, balancing your food booth visits with attractions is key. If you’re using Lightning Lane Multi Pass for popular rides like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, try to time your return windows so you aren’t rushing across the park while trying to enjoy your meal.
Stay tuned as we wait for the full booth menus and the complete concert lineup to be released. It’s going to be a delicious season at EPCOT!
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.