by Disney Magic Diva
A springtime ritual is about to begin! Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will open March 3, 2021 and extend well into summer before it concludes on July 5. There will be gorgeous gardens and topiaries to explore, delectable bites from garden fresh outdoor kitchens, scavenger hunts for the young and young at heart, and outstanding live entertainment from talented performers. It’s a festival you don’t want to miss!
Topiaries and Gardens
Although there will be some changes to the 2021 Festival, there will still be many favorites. After all, what would the Flower and Garden Festival be without, well, flowers! You will be sure to find plenty of stunning gardens and those famous topiaries. Sorcerer Mickey will be ready to greet you at the entrance, then all around Epcot you’ll be able to visit adored Disney characters and animals. I always look forward to spotting some of our family’s favorites – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in Germany, Tinkerbell in the United Kingdom, Buzz Lightyear in Future World and of course Mickey and the Gang in Showcase Plaza. (Here’s a complete list of where to look for these horticultural masterpieces.)
In addition to the famous topiaries, there are plenty of colorful gardens to experience. The most iconic display isn’t in the soil at all – it’s the floating gardens on the ponds around Future World and World Showcase. What a picturesque view! You can also find gardens from around the globe as you stroll around World Showcase. Italy, Japan, Morocco, United Kingdom, China, Mexico, and Germany all have gardens celebrating an aspect of their culture. You can also learn how to create an outdoor space of your own at Outdoor Escapes in Future World East. And all you paleontologists won’t want to miss the NEW Prehistoric Garden at Future World West! The dinosaurs may not still be around from 65 million years ago, but these plant species have survived!
Outdoor Kitchens
Searching for your favorite topiaries and strolling through gardens certainly works up an appetite. That’s why we also love the Outdoor Kitchens at the Flower and Garden Festival. Thankfully, those are returning this year too! After all, it is the Taste of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival! So as you wander gazing at the stunning flowers and gardens, be sure to taste some delights from Outdoor Kitchens! We rarely get to try everything we want, but that doesn’t stop us from trying! You can read about some of our past scrumptious samples here.
Live Entertainment
When your feet need a break, there’s plenty of live entertainment scheduled for the Flower and Garden Festival. While the Garden Rocks Concerts won’t be returning this year, there is daily entertainment throughout the park. The beloved Voices of Liberty will be performing at the American Gardens Theater. This amazing vocal group is not to be missed! And while you’re there, stick around to see Mariachi Cobre which will also be at America Gardens Theater. If you prefer more percussion, head up to the Canada Mill Stage to see Jammin’ Gardeners. Apparently the famous JAMMitors can play garden tools as well as they can trash cans! And for something more calming, check out the pianist playing a selection of songs of the season in World Showplace.
Family Fun
Even with all the construction in progress, Epcot can still be a great place for kids! During Taste of Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, there are even more great activities for families.
The Goodness Garden Butterfly House is a child’s paradise! You can learn about butterfly life-cycles, view hundreds of butterflys up close (and maybe even have one land on you!) and if you’re really dosed in pixie-dust, see one emerge from its chrysalis!
Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration will be returning. This “scavenger-hunt” around World Showcase has been popular with kids for a few years now, and it’s great to see it back. This year, maps are $7.99 plus tax. Check out my article on the fun my grandkids had.
Beginning March 19, the kids (or adults—no judgment here!) can also take part in the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt. Purchase a map for $7.99 plus tax and search for all the eggs hidden around the park. Since the park had to close last spring, this event didn’t get to take place. It’s great to see it back! It was certainly a hit with the littles.
Need a place to run off a little energy? Head to Health Full Trail along Imagination Walkway. This “made-for-kids” area is intended to inspire creativity and help the whole family learn ways to stay healthy.
Beginning in April, you may want to visit the Germany Pavilion to see Growing the Future presented by Murata Electronics. Friends from Science from Scientists will join in a “fun and fascinating experience that explores how cutting-edge technology from Murata, paried with agricultural science, can transform the way we seed the furture.”
So, who’s excited for Spring? Since the park closed shortly after the Flower and Garden Festival began last year, it is exciting to plan for its return this year! It’s a fabulous time to be at Walt Disney World, and so encouraging to see many of the fan favorites returning this year. I for one can’t wait for a violet lemonade!
Want some help planning your next visit to Walt Disney World? Contact Patricia at All for Dreams Travel. Her expert advice is FREE!!
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