by Disney Magic Diva
*Note: This is a throwback article from 2018, we hope this activity continues for 2019!*
I have always admired people who know the names of beautiful flowers. Or sure, I know roses and tulips; daisies and carnations. But to actually talk knowledgeably about gardening or floral arrangements – that’s beyond my skill set. That’s why I enjoy the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival so much- it’s a chance to not only admire the breathtaking gardens, but to talk with those who are blessed with a green thumb and even learn about different plants. (Read Passholder Diva’s review of the 2017 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival here.)
Although it was probably designed as an activity to keep the kids entertained while traveling around World Showcase, I was excited to try the new Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration during our visit this year. Similar to other scavenger hunt type activities held at Epcot, this experience entails purchasing a map and then exploring the countries around the World Showcase in search of designated treasure. In Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration, you search the gardens of the nations looking for certain flowers. It seemed like an activity suited to just my level of expertise!
It’s easy to start your exploration. Just stop by Port of Entry on your way into World Showcase, and purchase a map and sticker set for $5.99 plus tax. (Annual Passholder discounts apply!) 
Then as you wander around World Showcase, be sure to take your time leisurely admiring the gorgeous gardens in each country. As you take in the beauty, keep an eye out for Disney’s favorite honeybee, Spike! 
Spike is busy pollinating all the flowers around World Showcase, and will help guide you to the appropriate sticker for each country. Near Spike, you’ll see a Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration plant stake with a color photo of a plant. Find the corresponding sticker on the sheet of stickers you received with your map, and place it on your map in the designated spot. No green thumb needed!
While searching for Spike, I found it very helpful that the map is labeled with the name of each garden. Given all the breathtaking foliage around World 
Showcase for Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival, it’s easy to get distracted or feel overwhelmed when searching for Spike. Knowing the name of the gardens where Spike is hiding helped keep us focused on where to pay attention while searching for Spike.
Once you have finished your Pollen Nation Exploration, you can return your map to Port of Entry for a prize!
Diva Tip: Spike is happy to reward your efforts, even if you don’t quite match every sticker to a garden. Whenever you are ready, you can return to Port of Entry to redeem your map for a prize! (or even claim your prize when you purchase your map if you really want to save some time!)
Maps can be redeemed until May 28, 2018 or while supplies last. You will be able to choose from one of four sets of festive embroidered patches themed to Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. These are perfect for decorating a tote bag, backpack, hat, t-shirt, or just to have as a fun souvenir! Which set will you choose?
If you’re ready to buzz on over to Epcot, Patricia at All for Dreams Travel can help get you there! Her services are FREE, so request a quote today!
***Disclaimer – We at Tips from the Disney Divas and Devos hope you enjoy reading our articles, and encourage you to share any you feel may be of interest to someone else. We do ask, however, if you choose to share the photographs attached to our articles, you give credit to the photographer. Thank you for your cooperation and sharing our love of Disney!
