Epcot, one of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort, is a hotspot for entertainment, dining, and attractions inspired by cultures from around the world. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week-long vacation, knowing the park’s operating hours can help you make the most of your visit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Epcot’s operating hours.
Epcot is typically open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM for most of the year. However, these hours can vary during peak seasons, holidays, and special events. Extended hours are also available for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select partner hotels. It’s always recommended to check the official Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date information.
Regular Operating Hours
Epcot typically operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, a schedule that’s standard for about 90% of the year. However, these hours can vary, particularly during busy holiday weekends, some summer weeks, around Thanksgiving, and the weeks around Christmas Day. There are also some dates with 10 AM openings or 9:30 PM closings.
Extended Hours for Hotel Guests
Disney offers additional perks for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select partner hotels. One such perk is Early Theme Park Entry, which allows these guests to enter the park 30 minutes before other guests every day. Extended Evening Hours are also available for guests of deluxe Disney resorts and select partner resorts, granting them a few extra hours in the park at night on select evenings.
Changes During Peak Seasons
During peak seasons such as holidays and summer, Epcot often extends its operating hours to accommodate the increased number of visitors. For instance, during the summer months, Epcot might extend its opening time to 8:30 AM and maintain a closing time of 9 PM. During major holidays, the park might operate from 9 AM to 9:30 PM, with Early Entry and Extended Evening hours potentially extending this to 8:30 AM – 11:30 PM.
Special Extended Hours for Events
Epcot also hosts special events that offer extended hours, such as Disney After Hours. This limited-capacity, separately ticketed event allows guests to experience the park after normal operating hours with significantly reduced wait times for popular attractions. The event typically runs from 10 PM to 1 AM, with event ticket holders allowed to enter the park as early as 7 PM.
Checking Operating Hours
To get the most up-to-date information on Epcot’s operating hours, it’s recommended to check the official Walt Disney World website’s calendar or the My Disney Experience app. You can also follow Walt Disney World’s official Twitter account (@WaltDisneyWorld) for updates and announcements.
Attractions with Different Operating Hours
Not all attractions within Epcot operate on the same schedule as the park itself. For example, World Showcase usually opens at 9:00 AM, while other attractions like “Journey Into Imagination with Figment” often close early.
COVID-19 Adjustments
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Epcot’s operating hours have undergone several changes. However, as of now, the park has returned to its regular operating hours of 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Peak Seasons at Epcot
The peak seasons at Epcot coincide with school breaks and major holidays. However, Epcot also hosts several special events throughout the year that can attract large crowds. These include the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival in March, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays in winter.
In conclusion, while Epcot’s general operating hours are from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, these can vary depending on the time of year, expected crowd levels, and special events. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check the most current hours before planning your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours for Epcot during off-peak seasons?
During off-peak seasons, Epcot typically operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, these hours can vary and it’s recommended to check the official Walt Disney World website’s calendar or the My Disney Experience app for the most accurate information.
Are there any attractions at Epcot that operate on a different schedule than the park itself?
Yes, not all attractions within Epcot operate on the same schedule as the park. For instance, World Showcase usually opens at 9:00 AM, while other attractions like “Journey Into Imagination with Figment” often close early.
What are the extended hours for Disney Resort hotel guests?
Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select partner hotels can enjoy Early Theme Park Entry, which allows them to enter the park 30 minutes before other guests every day. Extended Evening Hours are also available for guests of deluxe Disney resorts and select partner resorts, granting them a few extra hours in the park at night on select evenings.
Are there any special events at Epcot that offer extended hours?
Yes, Epcot hosts special events like Disney After Hours, a limited-capacity, separately ticketed event that allows guests to experience the park after normal operating hours with reduced wait times for popular attractions. The event usually runs from 10 PM to 1 AM, with event ticket holders allowed to enter the park as early as 7 PM.
When are the peak seasons at Epcot?
The peak seasons at Epcot coincide with school breaks and major holidays. Epcot also hosts several special events throughout the year that can attract large crowds, such as the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival in March, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays in winter.
