What Festival Is at Epcot in March?

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is a yearly event that takes place in Epcot, one of the four theme parks in Walt Disney World Resort, Bay Lake, Florida. This highly anticipated springtime celebration brings a sense of joy and renewal to the park, making it the perfect destination for visitors in March.

Dates and Duration

The Epcot festival in March, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, took place from March 1st to July 5th in 2023. This annual event is a celebration of spring, offering a variety of activities, entertainment, and culinary delights that cater to all ages.

Main Attractions

The main attractions of the Epcot festival in March include:

1. Topiaries: Marvel at the skill and craftsmanship behind the numerous topiaries that are created in the shapes of beloved Disney characters. For instance, a new Princess Tiana topiary in The American Adventure pavilion and an “Encanto” topiary scene near the park’s main entrance.
2. Display gardens: Explore beautiful gardens and expansive plantings throughout the park, showcasing a variety of flowers and vegetation.
3. Walk-through butterfly house: Get up close and personal with various species of butterflies in a specially designed butterfly house.
4. Gardens and trails: Discover a variety of gardens and trails that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the park.
5. Garden Graze: A food-focused activity where guests can sample various dishes from the festival’s outdoor kitchens.
6. Eggstravaganza Scavenger Hunt: Available during select dates for Easter, this fun scavenger hunt adds an extra layer of fun for guests.
7. Themed merchandise: Commemorate your visit with a range of festival merchandise, including apparel, glassware, kitchenware, and Minnie Mouse ears.
8. Live entertainment: Enjoy live music from internationally recognized artists at the Garden Rocks Concert Series.

Food and Drink

Visitors can expect a variety of food and drink options at the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. The festival features Outdoor Kitchens, which offer delicious small plates with fresh flavors from the garden. Some examples of food and drink items available at the festival include:

• Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market Food Items
• UFO Beer Co. Citrus Hazy Wheat Beer
• 81Bay Brewing Co. Citrus Honey Cream Ale
• Parish Brewing Co. Drive Thru: Orange Octane Imperial Sour
• Bella Strada Spritz (New)
• Orange Sunshine Wine Slushy
• Beer Flight
• EPCOT Farmers Feast Food Items
• Flower Drop Cocktail: St. Germaine Elderflower Liqueur, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Minute Maid Premium Lemonade (New)

Special Performances

During the festival, the Garden Rocks Concert Series takes place. This concert series features artists such as Journey’s former lead vocalist Steve Augeri, Daughtry, Tommy DeCarlo, and Smash Mouth performing on the America Gardens Theater stage. The festival also offers various special events, including beautiful gardens, fresh flavors, and a range of exciting activities.

History and Background

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival first debuted in 1994 and has since become a popular event, featuring beautiful gardens, topiaries, food, and entertainment. Over the years, Epcot has become known as the “festival park” with four major festivals taking place throughout the year, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, and the Epcot Festival of the Holidays.

Preparation Tips

To best prepare for this festival, consider the following tips:

1. Check the weather: In March, temperatures in Orlando are on the rise, with an average high of 79°F and a low of 57°F. There will be plenty of warm days and very low rainfall chances, so pack swimsuits and a jacket for the evenings and mornings.
2. Plan your visit: The festival features more than 15 food booths, multiple scavenger hunt-style activities, gardens, character topiaries, and major performances. To help you plan your trip, consider using the full guide provided by the Disney Food Blog.
3. Set a food budget: With numerous food booths offering unique dishes, it’s essential to set a budget and pace yourself to enjoy the culinary delights without overspending.
4. Visit early: To avoid crowds, consider arriving early at the park. Many food booths don’t open until World Showcase opens, but getting in early can help you enjoy some of EPCOT with lower crowds.
5. Explore the gardens and topiaries: The festival features beautiful gardens and character topiaries throughout the park. Take your time to explore and appreciate these displays.
6. Attend Garden Rocks Concerts: The festival features live music every evening at the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Enjoy performances by internationally recognized artists on the America Gardens Theater stage.
7. Participate in activities: The festival offers various activities, such as Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt and the Animation Academy, where you can draw Disney and Pixar characters.

Remember that the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is included with valid theme park admission and a park reservation.

Tips and Tricks

To get the most out of the Epcot festival in March, consider the following tips and tricks:

1. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
2. Review the menus and event schedules before you go, so you can plan your day accordingly.
3. Set a budget for food and souvenirs to avoid overspending.
4. Visit the festival on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
5. Make sure to check out the topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and garden exhibits.
6. Participate in the Garden Graze and scavenger hunts like Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration for added fun.
7. Enjoy the Garden Rocks Concert Series, featuring live music at the America Gardens Theatre.
8. Try the best dishes and drinks at the festival, as recommended by various sources.
9. Take advantage of the various workshops and seminars available during the festival.
10. Don’t forget to check out the themed merchandise available during the festival.

Remember that the Epcot festival experience may vary each year, so it’s essential to stay updated on the latest information and schedules.

Conclusion

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is a fantastic celebration of spring, offering a myriad of attractions, culinary delights, and entertainment options. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a foodie, or simply a Disney fan, this festival offers something for everyone. So, plan your visit today and experience the magic of spring at Epcot!