In Florida, it may not feel like fall yet, but that didn’t deter enthusiastic visitors to Walt Disney World from queuing up for warm delights such as Autumn Chili and Grilled Cider-brined Pork Tenderloin as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival commenced on Thursday.

This beloved festival offers over 240 different tastes at more than 30 Global Marketplace booths, showcasing a variety of regions like Hawaii and Mexico, culinary themes such as Forest and Field, and food styles including gourmet French fries. Refreshing options are also available, including Mango Peach Bubble Tea.

Here’s some essential information about one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved festivals.

When is the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival in 2024?

This year, the festival runs for nearly three months, starting from August 29 and concluding on November 23.

What’s new at the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival this year?

This year’s festival features a plethora of new food and drink options, such as region-inspired hot dogs at Flavors of America, Liquid Nitrogen Frozen Sweet Potato Mousse at Swirled Showcase, and boozy Greek Melon Limeade at the Greece booth.

A new venue, CommuniCore Hall, opened in June as part of EPCOT’s ongoing transformation. This space includes the new macaroni-and-cheese-focused Macatizers kiosk and a quick-service venue called Festival Favorites.

Is EPCOT Food and Wine free to attend?

The festival is free with park admission; however, food and drinks must be purchased separately.

What are the four EPCOT festivals?

The four festivals held at EPCOT include:

• EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

• EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

• EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

• EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Is there still a scavenger hunt at EPCOT?

During the EPCOT Food and Wine festival, guests can enjoy two scavenger hunts: Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak and Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit. To receive a prize upon completion, participants must purchase an activity map; however, searching for the hidden Ratatouille figurines and decorated pumpkins can be done for free.

Additionally, there’s a fun challenge known as Emile’s Fromage Montage. Guests who order five cheese-centric items from a designated list will receive a complimentary treat. The list of eligible dishes can be found in the festival’s free booklet.

What are the hours for EPCOT Food and Wine booths?

The Global Marketplace booths for the festival operate from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, allowing guests to grab a final bite before the evening show, Luminous The Symphony of Us, takes place on the World Showcase Lagoon.

Most of the booths are situated around the World Showcase, though some can be found scattered throughout the park, such as Coastal Eats near Mission: SPACE and Earth Eats close to The Land.

Tips for Enjoying EPCOT Food and Wine

1. Review Menus Beforehand

With a plethora of food and drink options, it’s easy to get full before experiencing everything the park has to offer. Check out the Global Marketplace menus online or in the festival program to decide what you really want to try.

2. Set a Budget

While each item might seem reasonably priced, costs can add up quickly. Consider limiting your expenditures by buying a gift card for a set amount that suits your budget. Once you reach your limit, you can choose whether to add more funds to the card. Any leftover balance can be used for merchandise or other Disney-related expenses beyond the festival.

Sharing dishes among your group allows you to taste more items without overspending or feeling too full. Friends can alternate who pays the bill.

3. Experiment with New Flavors

This is an excellent opportunity to try something you usually wouldn’t order.

You might discover you enjoy the unique Pickle Milk Shake at Brew Wing Lab or the Paella Negra that includes squid ink rice, shrimp, bay scallops, octopus, and garlic aïoli at the Spain kiosk.

4. Take Frequent Breaks

The festival may continue into the fall, yet it can still feel like summer. Remember to take breaks in air-conditioned attractions like Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros, Reflections of China, The American Adventure, Impressions de France, Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, and Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360.

Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated. Free cups of cold water are available wherever drinks are served.

5. Enjoy a Performance

Every night until November 18, live concerts featuring artists like The Fray, Tiffany, Aloe Blacc, Yellowcard, and Boys II Men will be performed.

This is part of the festival’s Eat to the Beat series, with showtimes at 5:30, 6:45, and 8 p.m. at the America Gardens Theatre.