Plan Around Disney World Special Events
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Visiting Disney World during certain times of the year takes the fun and magic to a whole new level with special events. From my experiences, some have more to offer than others. Here we'll explore the various special events that happen at Disney World with a short review and expert tips and tricks.
Disney World Special Events Overview
EPCOT
Flower & Garden Festival at EPCOT
When: Typically early March through the end of May.
Go For It?: Worth It, but not the best of Disney's special events.
Overview
Officially the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, this special event is one of the most beautiful at EPCOT. The park blooms with specialized gardens and topiaries shaped in the image of your favorite characters. There's also great outdoor kitchens that typically serve garden-fresh foods. If you're trying to go in the spring, this is a great event to try to time your vacation to.
Food & Wine Festival at EPCOT
When: Typically late August through late November
Go For It?: Absolutely! If you love food, wine, drinks, Disney, and more, this is for you!
Overview
Officially the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, this special event is probably the most fun adult-focused event hosted at EPCOT. The park adds countless new mini-pavilions around the World Showcase where you taste food & drinks from countries not represented in the permanent 11. My favorite is the Hawaii pavilion. Year after year Hawaii serves up some great food that you'll be dreaming about.
Festival of the Arts at EPCOT
When: Typically mid January through late February
Go For It?: If you love art and music, it's definitely worth checking out.
Overview
Officially the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, this is a celebration of culinary, visual, and performing arts. Special concerts happen throughout the park while beautiful art murals light up every corner.
Magic Kingdom
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween at the Magic Kingdom
When: Typically September through early November
Go For It?: 100%, Absolutely! This is the BEST special event at Disney World!
Overview
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom is my family's favorite special event—by a long shot! If you love food and drinks, there's unique desserts, food, and drinks you can't get anywhere else or at any other time of the year. Everyone gets to partake in a fun trick-or-treat party with a candy bag and visitng candy stations throughout the park. All the rides are open, and the best part: attendance is limited! So it's easier to get on the rides and experience the entirety of the park.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom
When: Typically November through the end of December
Go For It?: If you're a sucker for all things holiday—particularly Christmas—this is an event for you!
Overview
This fun and fabulously decorated special event lights up the Magic Kingdom with more magic than you'll see the rest of the year. The entire park is decorated for Christmas. Special treats, such as holiday cookies and hot cocoa, are available throughout. Unique parades and more happen at specific times. There's so much to love.
Others
There are plenty of other events that happen at Disney World parks every year. Check out their website for more information on additional happenings that might coincide with when you are visiting.
