The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is like the Disney World version of spring break — but with more flowers and less beer pong. From February 28th to May 27th, the park transforms into a floral wonderland, complete with topiaries, gardens, and delicious plant-inspired eats. And this year, there’s a special surprise waiting for you on Living with the Land!
Living with the Land is a slow boat ride that takes you through the greenhouses at EPCOT, showcasing the farming techniques Disney uses to grow food for the parks. But during the Flower & Garden Festival, the ride gets a Winnie the Pooh-themed overlay! Picture yourself on a picnic with Pooh and friends, surrounded by honey jars and festival ingredients. It’s a subtle touch, but a delightful one.
If you’re a gardener or just appreciate a good theme, don’t miss this unique experience. Keep your eyes peeled for Hundred Acre Wood nods as you float through the greenhouses. And who knows, Disney might surprise us with even more Pooh magic before the festival officially kicks off.
But that’s not all the festival has to offer! The United Kingdom Pavilion is home to the English Tea Garden, showcasing plants used in Twinings teas. Wander through the garden and learn about the art of tea-blending while enjoying the picturesque setting. And don’t forget to visit the Shakespeare Garden, where you can explore the works of the bard surrounded by dazzling flowers.
In addition to these classic gardens, this year’s festival introduces two new Global Gardens in World Showcase. The China Penjing Garden invites guests to discover ancient Chinese art through miniature landscapes, while the Gnome Garden in the Germany Pavilion features topiary versions of magical garden gnomes from German folk tales.
And let’s not forget about Butterfly Landing, presented by AdventHealth. Step into a butterfly garden and witness a kaleidoscope of butterflies up close. Learn about butterfly lifecycles and maybe even see one emerge from its chrysalis. It’s a magical experience that’s sure to delight guests of all ages.
As you explore the festival, keep an eye out for health tips from AdventHealth. Gardening, spending time outdoors, and soaking up some Vitamin D are all great ways to improve your health and mood. So take a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks and enjoy the natural beauty of EPCOT during the Flower & Garden Festival.
With so much to see and do, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is a must-visit event for Disney fans and nature lovers alike. So grab your Mickey ears, pack some sunscreen, and get ready to experience the magic of spring in full bloom at Disney World. See you there!
Co-Founder of the OFT Blog. Mother of 2 who disguises as a 9 to 5 finance professional on most days. She loves to travel, is an amateur website builder and cook. And given her day job, she loves travel planning and saving money. Follow along!
