The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival has returned to Walt Disney World. This fan-favorite event includes more than 30 global marketplace food booths with savory small plates and drink pairings inspired by different countries. The festival is happening now through November 23rd, 2024.
It’s a delectable experience for adults, but what about the kids? Most likely, you’re toting the kids to Disney World and they’re by your side at Epcot. Here’s how we kept all three of our kids entertained while eating around World Showcase. These attractions, rides, and games are the best way to enjoy the Food & Wine Festival with kids.
Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt
Despite a 7-year age gap between my oldest and youngest, all three of my kids enjoyed the Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak game. It’s a scavenger hunt that can be purchased at several retail locations in Epcot for $9.99. Once the kids have their map, they can find hidden Remy statues around the World Showcase and place stickers on the map when they find a statue. They’re fun to spot and there’s no waiting in lines to play. Submit your scavenger hunt map upon completion and pick a prize to take home as a souvenir. Cast Members are always available to assist guests to find Remy and all ages love the game.
Document Family Fun With PhotoPass Photos
I treasure our family vacation photos, but now even the kids love to smile for the camera when we’re at Disney World. The Disney PhotoPass services place professional photographers throughout the park that guests can take advantage of. They’re scattered around the park at iconic park locations, with characters, and attractions. In true Disney fashion, they take it to the next level with Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots. They’re special photos that add a touch of magic. In minutes, the photos upload to your My Disney Experience app and the kids can see the magic photo they just took. It’s such a neat addition to your family vacation.
Find Food & Drinks The Kids Will Enjoy Too
The thought of international cuisine may not sound appetizing to your kids, but there are more kid-friendly food and drink finds at the festival than ever. With the rise of the sober-curious trend, there are numerous non-alcoholic beverage options at almost every marketplace booth. Head to Sunshine Seasons, in Epcot, and you’ll find a special festival-edition shake — the Caramel Apple Milk Shake for $10.99 made with Artisanal gelato, pâte brisée, whipped cream, candy apple cake, and caramel drizzle. It got two thumbs up from our kids. Other festival foods they loved include the gyros in Greece and hot dogs from the United States.
Meet Their Favorite Disney Characters
From Winnie The Pooh to Belle, many Disney characters call Epcot home. World Showcase offers many character meet-and-greet locations that are so easy to find. Use your My Disney Experience app to filter character locations, on the map feature, and find all your favorites. Whether you want to meet Mulan in China or Snow White in Germany, there’s a photo, hug, or high-five ready for your kids. If you’re doing it right, grab your festival food and drink to nosh on while you’re waiting in line.
Ride Epcot’s Newest Attractions
If you want a little break from the festival food, check out some of Epcot’s newest family-friendly attractions. Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, is a new educational walk-through attraction that’s interactive for all ages. It’s also a fun way to cool off on a hot festival day. If you need an air-conditioned escape, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure engages your senses on a 4D culinary ride that’ll leave the whole family belly-laughing. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind isn’t in World Showcase, but it’s the park’s newest coaster and a thrilling must-do if your little ones are over 42 inches.
Jam Out As A Family At The Eat To The Beat Concert Series
Hear me out on this one: bring your kids to the Eat to the Beat concerts. The Epcot Eat to the Beat Concert Series brings renowned musical artists and bands to the America Gardens Theatre and it’s included with your park admission. Bands such as The Fray, Yellowcard, and Switchfoot are just a few headliners making appearances this year at the festival. Even if your kids don’t recognize the band name, it’s the perfect first concert experience. It’s completely family-friendly, seating is provided (first come first serve), and each show runs roughly 45 minutes. Let the kids jam out and experience their first concert at Epcot. I never expected my kids to enjoy it as much as they did! There are three showtimes available nightly.
End Your Epic Epcot Day With Luminous – The Symphony of Us
The perfect ending to any park day at Walt Disney World includes fireworks. The new Luminous – The Symphony of Us spectacular brings together the cultures of World Showcase in a feast for your eyes. The stunning show includes lasers, fireworks, and dancing fountains choreographed to an original music composition created just for Epcot. Kids are mesmerized by the show and it’s a beautiful ending to your Epcot International Food & Wine Festival day!
