As Disney prepares for the reopening of theme parks next month, they are taking a measured and deliberate approach to planning that applies appropriate new health and safety measures. They continue to follow guidance from government and health officials for responsibly operating the theme parks, so they can make the right adjustments to their offerings, including their upcoming fall events.
One staple of the fall season at the Walt Disney World Resort is the annual EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Today, Disney was pleased to share that not only have they cooked up a creative, modified festival experience, it will also be Disney’s longest festival yet – giving guests plenty of time to enjoy “A Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival!”
This new take on the foodie festival will debut July 15 and continue through the fall, offering over 20 signature global marketplaces like Hawaii, Hops & Barley, and Islands of the Caribbean, spaced out around the park. And, if you’ve ever imagined a world where the floral fun of Flower & Garden is sprinkled in with the global goodies of Food & Wine, here’s your chance – guests will be able to see our newest topiary, Remy, in the France pavilion and find Flower & Garden merchandise. For scavenger hunt fans, Remy’s Ratatouille Hide and Squeak scavenger hunt returns. And stay tuned as Food & Wine merchandise joins the fun later on after the festival begins.
Disney knows the popular musical acts during the “Eat to the Beat Concert Series” often pack the house and, in an effort to accommodate proper physical distancing, Disney will not be able to host these concerts this year.
There will be plenty of music to enjoy at America Gardens Theatre with local EPCOT entertainment such as Mariachi Cobre, the JAMMitors and more. These fan favorites will spread out their performances throughout the day, giving audiences more options to enjoy them.
While assessing another fall special event, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney has determined that many of its hallmarks – stage shows, parades and fireworks – are unable to take place in this new, unprecedented environment. With that in mind, Disney has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Additionally, Disney H2O Glow Nights, the nighttime special ticket event at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, will not take place for the remainder of 2020. Guests who have already bought tickets to these events will be assisted with refunds over the coming weeks.
Looking ahead to the holiday season, this may spark questions about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, which includes the Candlelight Processional. Disney is monitoring the new environment closely, and will make a decision on these events as they continue to learn more from government and health officials. As always, Disney’s goal is to explore every option and look at ways in which they can still host events and festivals full of Disney magic, while still operating responsibly with the health and safety of guests and cast members in mind.