Last week I spent the day at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Epcot has several festivals throughout the year and believe it or not, despite having visited Disney World many times, I had never been to this particular festival.

For this festival, Epcot displays stunning topiaries throughout the park. There are also special booths and kiosks that offer festival merchandise and seasonal
food and drink. On this trip, I enjoyed a delicious beef brisket from the Smokehouse at the American Pavilion.

Be sure to pick up a Garden Passport on your way into the park.  The handy little book helps you locate all the Outdoor Kitchens and keep track of everything you eat and drink as a free souvenir! It also provides information on festival happenings throughout the park.

Among the free offerings is the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Flock of Seagulls performed while I was there. Other acts included Herman’s Hermits, Lonestar, Dennis DeYoung of Styx, Rick Springfield and Journey.

While I visited the park with friends this time around, there is plenty for kids to see and do! Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration is a scavenger hunt that sends kids on a search for Spike the Honeybee’s best blooms in Epcot. To participate, you can purchase a map at Port of Entry for $6.99. Once completed, return to Port of Entry for a special surprise!

Kids can also enjoy the new Bo Peep play area near Test Track. Mom and Dad can relax while kids climb and play!

There is also the Playfull Garden located near the Imagination Walkway. This play area offers interactive activities focused on nutrition and wellness, and a playground and outdoor kitchen.

And no visit to the Flower and Garden Festival is complete without a visit to the Butterfly House.

Now – onto the highlight – those incredible topiaries. You are greeted by beautiful gardens and topiaries the minute you step foot in the park!

From Mickey and friends to favorite princesses and mischievous trolls. You do not want to miss a single display!

Beauty and the Beast welcome guests to the France Pavilion in grand fashion!

Anyone who knows me, knows I absolutely love interacting with the characters and this visit was no exception. While there is no shortage of amazing dining experiences at Epcot, on this visit we chose Garden Grill so we could get some character time!

This meal features family style dining with steak, turkey stuffing, potatoes, bread, salad a delicious fruit covered pound cake and more!

Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Chip and Dale all visit the table during your meal. The characters were very enthusiastic on this visit and we were treated to some posing from Dale and Pluto!

The Flower and Garden Festival is included in your park admission and runs through June 3 this year. But don’t worry – if you miss it this year, you can always plan to visit next Spring!

Have you ever been to the Flower and Garden Festival? If so, what was your favorite part?