Get ready to paint the town—or at least World Showcase—in every color imaginable! The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is making its triumphant return, and this year’s celebration is bringing fresh experiences that’ll have art lovers, foodies, and Disney fans counting down the days. This year’s lineup is bringing something completely unexpected to the canvas!
From Broadway performances that’ll give you goosebumps to food so pretty you’ll hesitate before taking that first bite, this festival transforms EPCOT into a living, breathing gallery where you’re not just an observer—you’re part of the masterpiece. And here’s the kicker: 2026 is introducing a game-changing element that’s never been part of the festival before. Spoiler alert—it involves trading cards, and yes, it’s as cool as it sounds!
Festival Dates You Need to Know
The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs from January 16 through February 23, 2026—giving you a solid 39 days to experience everything this creative celebration has to offer. This makes it the first EPCOT festival of the year, kicking off Disney’s festival season with a burst of color and inspiration.
Here’s what you need to know about timing: EPCOT opens at 9 AM during the festival, but here’s the insider scoop—most food studios don’t start serving until 11 AM. That means you’ve got two hours to knock out some attractions before the culinary adventure begins. Smart planners hit the big rides early, then transition to food exploration once those booths start dishing out their artistically plated creations!
Pro tip for crowd-savvy visitors: Avoid opening weekend (January 16-18) and closing weekend like the plague. These dates draw massive crowds of locals, annual passholders, and influencers all trying to be first—or last—to experience everything. Instead, aim for mid-week visits, especially Tuesdays through Thursdays, when the paths aren’t quite as packed.
Also worth noting? Presidents’ Day falls during the festival, specifically on February 16, 2026. That holiday weekend historically brings larger-than-average crowds, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping for a more relaxed experience.
Disney Lorcana Arrives at Festival of the Arts
Hold onto your Mickey ears—Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game is making its festival debut in 2026, and it’s already causing major excitement in the Disney community! This gorgeous card game, known for its stunning artwork featuring reimagined Disney characters, is the perfect fit for a festival celebrating visual creativity!
Two Lorcana Experiences You Can’t Miss
Collection Quest at the Illumineer’s Lounge
Head to the Morocco Pavilion where you’ll find the Illumineer’s Lounge (the space typically occupied by Restaurant Marrakesh). Here, Illumineers—that’s what Lorcana players call themselves—can open booster packs and trade cards with fellow guests. Complete the Collection Quest and you’ll score a limited-edition Magical Places promo card that’s exclusive to the festival.
Ink & Find Scavenger Hunt
This free activity takes you throughout EPCOT searching for larger-than-life Lorcana cards hidden around the park. Pick up your complimentary Festival Questbook on the bridge between World Celebration and World Showcase, then start hunting! Match the cards you find to the special-ink stickers in your book. Once you’ve completed the hunt, return to either the Illumineer’s Lounge or Figment’s Inspiration Station at The Odyssey to claim your second limited-edition Magical Places promo card.
Artful Photo Op
Don’t miss the Instagram-worthy photo opportunity featuring card art from the Fabled Disney Lorcana set, showcasing Mickey Mouse as the Brave Little Prince and Sweetheart Princess Minnie Mouse on a carousel. It’s located on that same bridge where you grab your Questbook—so you literally can’t miss it!
Disney on Broadway
If you’ve ever wanted to hear the performers who brought your favorite Disney characters to life on Broadway stages, this is your moment. The Disney on Broadway Concert Series returns to the America Gardens Theatre with incredible talent performing three shows nightly!
2026 Broadway Lineup Highlights
The festival features rotating pairs of performers every couple weeks, ensuring fresh performances throughout the event. Here’s a taste of who’s gracing the stage:
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Kara Lindsay (Newsies) and Kevin Massey (Tarzan)
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Arielle Jacobs and Adam Jacobs (both from Aladdin)
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Patti Murin (Frozen) and Robert Creighton (The Little Mermaid)
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Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King)
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Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and Michael James Scott (Aladdin)
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Susan Egan (Beauty and the Beast—NEW!) and James Monroe Iglehart (Aladdin—NEW!)
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Anastacia McCleskey (Tarzan—NEW!) and Josh Strickland (Tarzan)
Shows happen at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM, and admission is included with your park ticket! Seating is first-come, first-served, so arrive early if you want prime viewing spots.
Snagging a Dining Package for Guaranteed Seating
Want guaranteed seats without the stress of showing up an hour early? Disney on Broadway Dining Packages pair a meal at participating EPCOT restaurants with priority seating for that evening’s concert.
Fifteen restaurants participate, with prices ranging from $36 (Regal Eagle Smokehouse, same-day packages only) to $89 for premium locations like Shiki-Sai or Teppan Edo. Your package includes an entrée, dessert, and beverage—plus that coveted guaranteed seat. Reservations opened December 17, 2025, so if you’re reading this after that date, book ASAP because these fill up fast!
Culinary Masterpieces
Let’s talk about the real reason many of us keep coming back—the food! Over 20 Food Studios are scattered throughout EPCOT, each serving up small plates that are equal parts delicious and photogenic!
These aren’t your average theme park snacks. Chefs approach each dish like it’s a canvas, creating presentations that make you pause before digging in. We’re talking deconstructed classics, artistic plating, and flavor combinations that surprise and delight!
Must-Try Dishes (Based on our Past Festival Favorites)
While the complete 2026 menu wasn’t fully available at research time, based on returning favorites and new offerings, here’s what to put on your hit list:
Wild Mushroom Risotto at Gourmet Landscapes (Canada) – This plant-based dish with truffle shavings has been a consistent top performer, featuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile that even meat-eaters rave about.
Sushi Donut at Goshiki (Japan) – It’s exactly what it sounds like: donut-shaped sushi featuring salmon, tuna, shrimp, and cucumber over decorative sauces. The presentation alone makes it worth the $8.50, but the taste keeps people coming back.
Beef Wellington at Cuisine Classique – Mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and perfectly cooked beef wrapped in crispy puff pastry with red wine demi-glace. It’s festival food elevated to fine dining status.
Deconstructed Key Lime Pie at The Deconstructed Dish – This playful take features flexible Key Lime curd, mousse, graham cracker cake, and meringues. It’s part of the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine!
Rainbow Cake at Figment’s Inspiration Station – Topped with freeze-dried Skittles, this colorful creation is kid-approved and adult-enjoyed.
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine
This festival tradition returns in 2026! Purchase five designated dishes from various Food Studios (each representing a different color), get stamps in your Festival Passport, then return to claim your reward—typically an exclusive Artist Palette Cookie with a souvenir cup.
Budget Reality Check: Plan on spending $6-8 per dish and $8-15 for alcoholic beverages. If you’re doing the Wonderful Walk, that’s roughly $35-40 for the five items plus your reward. For a full festival food experience sampling 10-12 items, budget around $100 per person.
Hands-On Art Experiences That Make You the Creator
One of the coolest things about Festival of the Arts? You’re not just looking at art—you’re making it!
Paint by Numbers Mural
This is 100% free and ridiculously fun. Located on the walkway between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion, this massive paint-by-numbers wall lets you contribute to a community masterpiece.
Here’s how it works: Stop by the paint distribution booth, pick your color, grab a sponge brush, and get assigned a numbered section. Paint five squares in your color, then step back and watch the full mural take shape throughout the day. Four different mural designs rotate during the festival, each celebrating EPCOT in unique artistic styles—from pixel art to Cubist-inspired Figments to a festival celebration showcasing all four EPCOT festivals.
Hours: 11 AM – 5 PM daily (weather permitting)
Bonus: Every participant receives a complimentary bookmark showing the complete mural design!
Animation Academy
Always wanted to learn how Disney artists bring characters to life? Animation Academy gives you step-by-step instruction from actual Disney animators who guide you through drawing a beloved character!
Sessions happen daily at the America Gardens Theatre, and it’s included with park admission. Bring your sketchbook or use the paper provided, and prepare to surprise yourself with what you can create in 20 minutes!
Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt
Figment is hiding throughout World Showcase—but not as himself. He’s inserted himself into famous works of art, and it’s your job to find him!
Cost: $11.99 plus tax ($10.23 with Annual Passholder discount)
Purchase your map and sticker set at Creations Shop, Disney Traders, or World Traveler, then hunt through each pavilion looking for Figment-themed picture frames featuring the purple dragon in masterpieces like:
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“Deep Woods” by Emily Carr in Canada
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“The Blue Boy” by Thomas Gainsborough in the United Kingdom
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“Water Lily Pond” by Claude Monet in France
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Moroccan Zellige tiles in Morocco
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“At The Heart of All Creation” in Germany
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Chinese Picture of Spring Ox in China
Complete your map and return it to any of the shops to claim your artful keepsake!
Free Character Hunt (Just look down)
Look down as you wander World Showcase—Disney characters are literally underfoot! These aren’t actual chalk drawings (thank goodness, or Florida rain would ruin them), but incredibly realistic stickers placed throughout the pavilions.
Spot favorites like:
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Dante (in both his dog and alebrije forms) at Mexico
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Mushu and Cri-Kee at China
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Pascal (three times!) at Germany
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Remy and Emile at France
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Characters from The Great Mouse Detective at the United Kingdom
No purchase necessary—just keep your eyes peeled and camera ready!
Original Disney Art and Live Demonstrations
Over 200 new pieces of artwork are being created specifically for the 2026 festival! You’ll find booths throughout World Showcase featuring paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces from renowned Disney Fine Artists.
Featured Artists for 2026
NEW Artist: Rosana Iarusso makes her festival debut with artwork focusing on ducks, Mickey, and Disney Princesses.
Returning favorites include:
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Dylan Bonner (6th year!) – Known for his Princess illustrations
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Darren Wilson
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Yesenia Moises
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Dave Perillo
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Jerrod Maruyama
Many artists hold signing sessions throughout the festival. Check the Artist Portal on the Walt Disney World website or My Disney Experience app for specific dates, times, and locations.
Visual Art in Performance
Head to CommuniCore Hall Plaza (new location for 2026!) to watch talented artists paint Disney characters in mere minutes. These high-energy performances feature artists creating finished pieces right before your eyes, set to music that matches the creative energy. It’s mesmerizing to watch blank canvases transform into recognizable characters in real-time.
Check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes throughout the day.
Artful Photo Ops
Seven photo opportunities let you literally become part of iconic artwork! Disney PhotoPass photographers are stationed at each location, but feel free to use your own camera too.
Photo op locations include:
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Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre-Auguste Renoir at International Gateway
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Sleeping Beauty scene on the bridge between World Showcase and Imagination!
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Mary Poppins penguin tea party on the same bridge
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Additional character-inspired scenes throughout the park
These installations are designed so you integrate seamlessly into the artwork—making for photos that look straight out of a storybook!
Festival Merchandise
If you’re a Figment fan (and honestly, who isn’t?), the 2026 merchandise collection is calling your name!
Festival of the Arts Spirit Jersey – Bursting with vibrant teal, blue, purple, and pink, featuring Figment drawing World Showcase. The back reads “EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2026.”
Figment Artist Plush – Decked out in a paint-splattered apron, purple beret, and holding a paintbrush. This little guy is ready to inspire!
Loungefly Ear Headband – Features Figment painting with a stunning purple bow embellished with fireworks and a Spaceship Earth medallion.
Festival Loungefly Bag – Can be worn as a purse or backpack, showing Figment painting the sky surrounded by trees, fireworks, and Spaceship Earth.
Other items include a baseball cap, ornament, Corkcicle water bottle, and collectible mug—all featuring our favorite purple dragon and the festival’s vibrant color palette.
Insider Festival Tips
When to Go for Smaller Crowds
Best days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Avoid: Weekends, especially Saturdays
Skip entirely: Opening weekend (Jan 16-18), closing weekend (Feb 21-23), Presidents’ Day weekend (Feb 14-16)
Best arrival time: Get to EPCOT right at 9 AM opening, hit attractions until 11 AM, then position yourself at your first food booth choice right when they open.
What to Wear: Dressing for January-February Weather
Central Florida in late January and February averages 54-73°F during the day and 48-64°F at night. Translation? Layers are your best friend.
Pack:
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T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts
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Both shorts and pants/leggings
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Light jacket or hoodie for mornings and evenings
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Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll log 5-7 miles easy!)
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Sunscreen and sunglasses
Pro styling tip: Feel free to theme your outfit to the festival! Art-inspired accessories, colorful patterns, or artist-style berets fit perfectly with the festival vibe.
Parking and Transportation
Standard parking: $35 per day
Preferred parking: $50-60 per day
Resort guests: FREE standard parking included
Park in the EPCOT lot and take the courtesy tram (or walk) to the main entrance. If you’re hopping from another park, consider the Skyliner from Hollywood Studios—it drops you at the International Gateway entrance, putting you right in World Showcase!
Budget Planning Breakdown
Free with park admission:
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All Broadway concerts
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Animation Academy
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Paint by Numbers mural
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Visual Art in Performance
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Chalk Full of Characters
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Artful Photo Ops
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Artist meet-and-greets
Costs money:
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Food ($6-8 per item)
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Beverages ($8-15)
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Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt ($11.99)
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Merchandise
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Dining packages ($36-89 per person)
Realistic daily budget: $100-150 per person including food, one scavenger hunt, and maybe a souvenir.
Why Festival of the Arts Stands Out from Other EPCOT Festivals
EPCOT hosts four festivals annually, and while they share similarities—food booths, entertainment, special activities—Festival of the Arts has a distinct personality that sets it apart.
Compared to Food & Wine: Festival of the Arts has fewer food booths (20+ vs. 30+) but many argue the food quality and presentation are superior. Plus, it’s far less alcohol-focused and significantly less crowded.
Compared to Flower & Garden: Both are visually stunning, but Festival of the Arts leans heavily into interactive experiences. You’re painting murals, drawing characters, and stepping into artwork—not just photographing it.
Compared to Festival of the Holidays: Arts is longer (39 days vs. roughly 30) and offers more daytime activities beyond eating and shopping.
Many Disney fans consider Festival of the Arts the most well-rounded EPCOT festival, balancing food, entertainment, and interactive experiences without feeling overwhelming.
Kid-Friendly Festival Fun
Worried about bringing little ones? Don’t be! Festival of the Arts might actually be the most kid-friendly EPCOT festival!
Activities kids love:
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Paint by Numbers mural (gets them moving and creating)
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Chalk sidewalk art stations
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Figment scavenger hunt (makes pavilion-hopping purposeful)
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Disney Lorcana activities (for young collectors)
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Animation Academy (they’ll be so proud of their drawing!)
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Colorful, fun food presentations
The festival gives kids agency—they’re contributing to art, not just observing it. Plus, the shorter duration compared to Food & Wine means you can experience everything in one solid day without exhausting everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Festival of the Arts cost?
The festival is FREE with EPCOT park admission. You only pay for food, drinks, merchandise, and optional add-ons like the Figment scavenger hunt.
What time do food booths open?
Most Food Studios open at 11 AM daily and stay open until park close.
Do I need park reservations?
Yes, you’ll need both a valid theme park ticket and a park reservation for EPCOT on the day you plan to visit. Book reservations as early as possible, especially for weekends.
Can I use the Disney Dining Plan at food booths?
Many Food Studios accept Disney Dining Plan snack credits, though this varies by booth and specific items. Check the My Disney Experience app for details.
How long does it take to experience the festival?
You can hit the highlights in 4-5 hours, but to really savor everything—all food booths, a Broadway show, interactive experiences, and artist meet-and-greets—plan for a full day (8-10 hours).
Is the festival suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely! The interactive nature and artist interactions make it perfect for solo adventurers. Join the paint mural, chat with artists, and enjoy people-watching between Broadway performances.
What’s the difference between Festival of the Arts and a regular EPCOT day?
During the festival, you’ll find Food Studios that don’t exist otherwise, special merchandise, Broadway performances three times nightly, dozens of artist booths, interactive art experiences, and a completely different atmosphere focused on creativity and inspiration.
Can I purchase art at the festival?
Yes! Many Disney Fine Artists sell original pieces, limited-edition prints, and smaller affordable items like postcards and note cards. Prices range from $6.99 for postcards to thousands for original paintings.
Are there vegetarian/vegan options at food booths?
Yes! Many booths offer plant-based selections, including the Wild Mushroom Risotto at Gourmet Landscapes. Look for the leaf symbol on menus indicating plant-based items.
What happens if it rains?
Most food booths stay open during light rain (they have coverage). The Paint by Numbers mural closes during inclement weather. Broadway concerts continue as scheduled since they’re in a covered theater. Indoor experiences like Animation Academy and artist booths are unaffected.
Making the Most of Your Festival Experience
Here’s your game plan for festival domination:
Morning (9-11 AM): Arrive at rope drop. Hit major attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Test Track, or Frozen Ever After while lines are short. Spot some Chalk Full of Characters along the way.
Late Morning (11 AM-1 PM): Position yourself at your first food booth choice right at 11 AM. Knock out 3-4 booths while crowds are still building. Pick up your Figment scavenger hunt materials and Festival Passport.
Afternoon (1-5 PM): Continue grazing through food booths. Participate in the Paint by Numbers mural (closes at 5 PM). Browse artist booths and maybe catch an Animation Academy session. Take breaks with Artful Photo Ops.
Evening (5 PM-close): Grab dinner items from remaining food booths. Catch a Disney on Broadway performance (remember: 5:30, 6:45, or 8 PM). Watch Visual Art in Performance at CommuniCore Hall Plaza. End with Harmonious fireworks if it’s still running, or whatever nighttime spectacular EPCOT is currently featuring.
Pro move: Download the My Disney Experience app before you go. It shows wait times, Food Studio locations, performance schedules, and lets you mobile order at select locations.
The Bottom Line
Short answer? Absolutely yes—especially for 2026!
This festival strikes that sweet spot of offering enough to justify special trip planning without being so overwhelming you can’t experience everything. The addition of Disney Lorcana this year adds a whole new dimension for collectors and card game enthusiasts, while the core experiences that made previous festivals successful all return!
The relatively smaller crowds compared to Food & Wine, the perfect weather window, the emphasis on interactive experiences, and that perfect blend of culture and fun make Festival of the Arts the festival that converts EPCOT skeptics into EPCOT evangelists.
Whether you’re an art aficionado, a foodie, a Broadway buff, a Figment fanatic, or just someone who appreciates creativity and inspiration, you’ll find something that resonates. And isn’t that what the best Disney experiences do? They speak to different parts of who we are while bringing us together in celebration!
So mark those calendars: January 16 through February 23, 2026. EPCOT is about to become your favorite art gallery, concert venue, and outdoor bistro—all rolled into one unforgettable experience. See you at the festival!
