EPCOT Food & Wine Festival: A Gastronomic Guide 2024

1. Welcome to the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is a premier event for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences from around the globe. Running from August 29th to November 23rd, 2024, this festival transforms EPCOT into a gastronomic paradise. It’s a celebration of global cuisines, fine wines, craft beers, and innovative culinary creations. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a fun day out, the festival offers something for everyone. Prepare your palate for an extraordinary journey filled with delectable bites, refreshing sips, and unforgettable moments. This year’s festival is presented by CORKCICLE, known for their stylish and functional drinkware, adding an extra layer of sophistication to your tasting experience.

2. New and Noteworthy: Highlights of the 2024 Festival

Each year, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival introduces exciting new dishes and beverages, ensuring a fresh and innovative culinary experience. From unique flavor combinations to plant-based options, there’s always something to discover.

2.1. Must-Try New Food Items

Tostada de Camarones (Mexico): Tempura-battered shrimp on a fried corn tortilla with guacamole, cabbage, chipotle aïoli, diced mango, and chile-lime powder.
Impossible Montreal Style Burger Slider (Flavors from Fire): A plant-based burger with cheddar cheese and tomato jam on a sesame seed bun.
Grilled Bushberry Spiced Shrimp Skewer (Australia): Served with sweet-and-sour vegetables and coconut chili sauce.

2.2. Refreshing New Beverages

Mango Sunrise Margarita (Mexico): Dos Hombres Mezcal, Centinela Tequila, mango purée, and black currant liquor with a chile-lime salt rim.
Spiced Apple Old Fashioned (Bramblewood Bites): An inspired cocktail with Boyd & Blair Rum.
Frozen French Cosmo (France): Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron Vodka, Grand Marnier, and cranberry juice.

2.3. Notable New Menu Booths

Macatizers (CommuniCore Hall): A new booth dedicated to macaroni and cheese variations, including traditional, cheesesteak, truffle, and IMPOSSIBLE chili options.

3. Exploring the Global Marketplaces: A Culinary Journey

The heart of the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival lies in its global marketplaces, each offering a unique taste of a different country or region. These marketplaces are strategically located around the World Showcase Lagoon and in Future World, providing a diverse culinary experience.

3.1. North America

Flavors of America (The American Adventure): Indulge in American classics with a twist, such as gourmet hot dogs with regional toppings. Options include New York-style, Chicago-style, Carolina-style, and Southwest-style hot dogs, alongside a freshly baked chocolate pudding cake with bourbon caramel.
Canada: Savor comforting dishes like cheddar cheese and bacon soup served with a pretzel roll, or the filet mignon with mushrooms and Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs mashed potatoes. Pair your meal with Collective Arts Brewing Audio/Visual Lager or Château des Charmes Cabernet Sauvignon.

3.2. South America

Brazil: Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil with feijoada (black beans with pork belly and Brazil nut pesto) and pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread). Quench your thirst with Xingu Black Beer or a frozen caipirinha with cachaça.

3.3. Europe

France: Immerse yourself in French cuisine with dishes like moelleux aux oignons caramélisés et au fromage de chèvre (egg moelleux with goat cheese and caramelized onions), brioche aux escargots (escargot brioche with garlic and parsley cream), and boeuf bourguignon. Enjoy a cocktail au gin et aux fraises or a Mas La Chevalière Pinot Noir.
Germany: Delight in German favorites such as schinkennudeln (pasta gratin with ham, onions, and cheese), bratwurst on a pretzel roll, and apple strudel with vanilla sauce. Sip on Schöfferhofer Lemon Zest Hefeweizen or von Trapp Brewing Dunkel Lager.
Italy: Experience Italian culinary artistry with Italian-style “nachos” (homemade beef ragoût, pasta chips, tomato sauce, and dried ricotta cheese), polpettine toscane (beef meatballs, rosemary focaccia, and pomodoro sauce), and vanilla cheesecake. Complement your meal with Prosecco, Moscato, Chianti, or a Bellini Spritz.
Spain: Relish Spanish flavors with Spanish charcuterie (jamón, Manchego, and pan con tomate) and paella negra (squid ink rice with shrimp, Bay scallops, and octopus). Pair your meal with red sangria or Quinta del ’67 Almansa Garnacha Tintorera.
Belgium: Indulge in Belgian delights such as beer-braised beef with smoked gouda mashed potatoes and Belgian waffles with warm chocolate ganache or berry compote. Sample Belgian Chilled Coffee and Brouwerij St Bernardus Dragòn Wit.
The Alps: Discover Alpine flavors with warm raclette Swiss cheese with alpine ham, baby potatoes, cornichons, and baguette, or the dark chocolate fondue with berries, pound cake, and meringues. Try Stiegl Brewery Key Lime Hard Radler or Frozen Rosé.
Greece: Taste the Mediterranean with spanakopita, IMPOSSIBLE Moussaka, griddled cheese with pistachios and honey, and lamb gyro. Enjoy Mylonas Winery Assyrtiko White Wine or Greek Melon Limenade.

3.4. Asia

China: Experience authentic Chinese cuisine with pan-fried chicken dumplings, crispy duck bao bun, and Shanghai scallion noodles with shrimp. Enjoy Mango Peach Bubble Tea, Baijiu Punch, or Fiery Dream cocktails.

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India: Savor Indian flavors with potato and pea samosa, chicken tikka masala, and mango lassi. Enjoy United Brewing Taj Mahal Premium Lager or Sula Brut Tropicale Sparkling Wine.
Japan: Delight in Japanese culinary creations with wagyu temaki sushi, eel temaki sushi, and teriyaki chicken bun. Try Kyoho Drink or Kyoho Grape Sour cocktails and Sapporo Premium Beer.
The Noodle Exchange: Sample various noodle dishes, including ramen with shaved beef or tofu, and Thai shrimp with rice noodles in coconut-curry broth. Pair with Parish Brewing Co. Strawberry Mochi or Pacific Rim Solstice Vineyard Old Vine Riesling.

3.5. Africa

Refreshment Outpost: Discover African-inspired dishes such as IMPOSSIBLE Spicy Sausage, curried chicken and South African boerewors sausage stew, and chocolate Amarula mousse. Enjoy Keel Farms Blackberry Apricot Jam Hard Cider or Habesha Cold Gold Pilsner.
Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco): Enjoy Moroccan cuisine with grilled kebabs, fried falafel pita, stone-baked Moroccan bread, and pistachio cake. Pair with Keel Farms Blackberry Pear Hard Cider or Sparkling Fig Cocktail.

3.6. Oceania

Australia: Taste Australian flavors with grilled bushberry spiced shrimp skewer, roasted lamb chop, and lamington. Enjoy Yalumba ‘The Y Series’ Viognier or Fowles Wine Farm to Table Shiraz.

3.7. Other

Hawaii: Experience island flavors with slow-roasted pork slider, Hawaiian rice bowl, and passion fruit cheesecake. Enjoy Maui Brewing Co Orange Mango Guava Hazy IPA or Florida Orange Groves Winery Sparkling Pineapple Wine.

4. Emile’s Fromage Montage: A Cheesy Adventure

Emile’s Fromage Montage is a delightful food stroll that celebrates all things cheese. This activity invites guests to sample a variety of cheesy dishes from participating global marketplaces.

4.1. How it Works

Get a Festival Passport: Pick up a Festival Passport at any of the global marketplaces or merchandise locations.
Purchase Qualifying Dishes: Look for the 🧀 symbol on the menu boards, indicating dishes that qualify for the stroll.
Collect Stamps: Purchase five qualifying dishes and collect a stamp in your Festival Passport for each purchase.
Redeem Your Prize: Once you have collected all five stamps, head to Shimmering Sips to redeem your special prize.

4.2. Participating Dishes

Traditional Macaroni and Cheese with herbed panko (Macatizers)
Cheesesteak Macaroni and Cheese with shaved beef, peppers and onions, and breadcrumbs (Macatizers)
BBQ Pork Rinds served with pimento cheese (Festival Favorites)
Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with alpine ham, baby potatoes, cornichons, and baguette (The Alps)
Schinkennudeln: Pasta gratin with ham, onions, and cheese (Germany)
Spanish Charcuterie: Jamón, Manchego, and pan con tomate (Spain)
Griddled Cheese with pistachios and honey (Greece)
Pão de Queijo: Brazilian cheese bread (Brazil)
Passion Fruit Cheesecake with toasted macadamia nuts (Hawaii)
Boursin Fig & Balsamic Cheesecake with fig jam and pomegranate (Milled & Mulled)
Pumpkin Mascarpone Ravioli with sage-brown butter, pecorino cheese, and hazelnut praline (Forest & Field)

5. Signature Drinks and Beverages

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival offers an impressive array of signature drinks, from refreshing cocktails to craft beers and fine wines.

5.1. Cocktails

Mango Sunrise Margarita (Mexico): Combines Dos Hombres Mezcal, Centinela Tequila, mango purée, and black currant liquor with a chile-lime salt rim.
Frozen French Cosmo (France): A mix of Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron Vodka, Grand Marnier, and cranberry juice.

5.2. Craft Beers

Brewery Ommegang Farm Fresh Ale (Flavors of America): A wildflower honey-conditioned ale.
Maui Brewing Co Orange Mango Guava Hazy IPA (Hawaii): A tropical IPA with orange, mango, and guava notes.

5.3. Wines

Château des Charmes Cabernet Sauvignon (Canada): A classic Cabernet Sauvignon from the Niagara region.
Mas La Chevalière, Pinot Noir (France): A light and fruity Pinot Noir.

6. Entertainment and Activities

Beyond the culinary offerings, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival provides a range of entertainment and activities that enhance the overall experience.

6.1. Eat to the Beat Concert Series

The Eat to the Beat Concert Series features live performances from popular bands and artists. These concerts take place at the America Gardens Theatre and are included with EPCOT admission. Check the daily schedule for showtimes and artist lineups.

6.2. Culinary Demonstrations and Seminars

Attend culinary demonstrations and seminars led by renowned chefs and culinary experts. These sessions offer valuable insights into cooking techniques, wine pairings, and culinary trends. Check the festival schedule for details and reservations.

6.3. Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt

Embark on a fun-filled scavenger hunt with Remy from Ratatouille. Purchase a map and stickers, then search for Remy figurines hidden throughout EPCOT. Once you find them all, redeem your completed map for a special prize.

6.4. Merchandise

Browse a variety of festival-themed merchandise, including apparel, kitchenware, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the exclusive CORKCICLE drinkware designed specifically for the festival.

7. Planning Your Visit: Tips and Tricks

To make the most of your visit to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival, consider these helpful tips and tricks.

7.1. Best Time to Visit

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Arrive early in the day to avoid long lines at the global marketplaces. The festival is open from August 29th to November 23rd, 2024, so plan accordingly.

7.2. Budgeting

The cost of food and beverages can add up quickly. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it. Consider purchasing a Disney Gift Card wristlet to easily track your spending.

7.3. Utilizing Mobile Order

Take advantage of the My Disney Experience app to mobile order food and beverages at select locations. This can save you time and allow you to skip the line.

7.4. Staying Hydrated

With all the delicious food and drinks, it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the complimentary water stations located throughout EPCOT.

7.5. Comfortable Footwear

You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. EPCOT is a large park, and you’ll want to be able to explore all the global marketplaces without your feet hurting.

8. Sustainable Eating at the Festival

In recent years, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival has increasingly emphasized sustainable practices, reflecting a broader trend in the culinary world towards environmentally conscious dining. Disney has implemented several initiatives to reduce the festival’s environmental footprint and promote responsible consumption.

8.1. Plant-Based Options

The festival features a growing number of plant-based dishes, catering to vegetarian, vegan, and environmentally conscious guests. These dishes often highlight innovative uses of plant-based proteins and locally sourced produce, reducing the reliance on resource-intensive animal products. The Impossible Montreal Style Burger Slider at Flavors from Fire and the Impossible Moussaka at the Greece marketplace are examples of this commitment.

8.2. Waste Reduction

Disney has implemented various waste reduction strategies, including the use of reusable serving ware and utensils at select marketplaces. Guests are encouraged to utilize recycling bins located throughout the park to properly dispose of waste. Efforts are also made to minimize food waste through careful inventory management and creative use of surplus ingredients.

8.3. Sustainable Sourcing

Many of the ingredients used in the festival’s dishes are sourced from local and regional farms, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local economies. Disney also prioritizes partnerships with suppliers who adhere to sustainable farming practices and ethical labor standards. This commitment to sustainable sourcing helps to minimize the environmental impact of the festival and promote responsible consumption.

8.4. Composting Programs

Disney has expanded its composting programs to divert organic waste from landfills. Food scraps and other compostable materials are collected from select marketplaces and sent to composting facilities, where they are transformed into nutrient-rich soil amendments. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a closed-loop system for waste management.

9. Family-Friendly Activities

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is not just for adults; it also offers plenty of family-friendly activities that kids will love.

9.1. Kid-Approved Dishes

Many of the global marketplaces offer dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Look for kid-friendly options like macaroni and cheese, chicken dumplings, and fruit skewers.

9.2. Playground Areas

Take a break from the food and drinks and let the kids burn off some energy at the playground areas located throughout EPCOT. These areas provide a safe and fun environment for kids to play and explore.

9.3. Character Meet and Greets

Meet some of your favorite Disney characters dressed in their culinary best. Check the daily schedule for character meet and greet locations and times.

9.4. Educational Opportunities

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival offers educational opportunities for kids to learn about different cultures and cuisines. Attend a culinary demonstration or seminar and let the kids discover new flavors and ingredients.

10. The Science of Flavor Pairing

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival provides a unique opportunity to explore the science behind flavor pairing. Understanding the principles of flavor compatibility can enhance your tasting experience and inspire you to create your own culinary masterpieces.

10.1. Basic Taste Interactions

There are five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Flavor pairing often involves balancing these tastes to create harmonious combinations. For example, salty and sweet flavors can complement each other, as seen in the pairing of prosciutto and melon. Sour flavors can cut through richness, as demonstrated by the use of lime juice in guacamole.

10.2. Aroma Compounds

Aroma compounds play a crucial role in flavor perception. Foods with similar aroma compounds tend to pair well together. For instance, strawberries and basil both contain aroma compounds that contribute to their fresh, fruity, and slightly herbaceous notes, making them a natural pairing.

10.3. Flavor Networks

Flavor networks illustrate the relationships between different ingredients based on their shared aroma compounds. These networks can be used to identify unexpected but successful flavor pairings. For example, chocolate and chili peppers share several aroma compounds, which explains their complementary flavors.

10.4. Regional Pairings

Traditional regional cuisines often reflect the local availability of ingredients and the cultural preferences for certain flavor combinations. Exploring these regional pairings can provide insights into the historical and cultural context of food. The pairing of wine and cheese in France, for example, is deeply rooted in the country’s culinary traditions and regional specialties.

11. EPCOT Food & Wine Festival: A Culinary Legacy

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival has become a cornerstone of Disney’s culinary offerings, influencing food trends and inspiring culinary creativity. Its success has led to similar events at other Disney parks and resorts around the world.

11.1. Impact on Disney’s Culinary Scene

The festival has elevated the overall dining experience at EPCOT and other Disney parks, with many of the dishes and beverages introduced at the festival becoming permanent menu items. It has also fostered a culture of culinary innovation and experimentation among Disney chefs.

11.2. Influence on Food Trends

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival has played a role in popularizing global cuisines and introducing new food trends to a wider audience. Dishes like bao buns, poke bowls, and artisanal cheeses have gained mainstream popularity in part due to their presence at the festival.

11.3. Inspiration for Culinary Creativity

The festival encourages chefs and food enthusiasts to think outside the box and create innovative dishes that push the boundaries of culinary creativity. It has served as a platform for showcasing new techniques, ingredients, and flavor combinations.

12. Contact FOODS.EDU.VN for More Culinary Insights

For more in-depth information about the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival and other culinary topics, visit FOODS.EDU.VN. Our website offers a wealth of resources, including detailed guides, expert reviews, and exclusive content.

Address: 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States

WhatsApp: +1 845-452-9600

Website: FOODS.EDU.VN

13. Advanced Culinary Techniques Featured at the Festival

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival often showcases advanced culinary techniques that add a modern twist to traditional dishes. These techniques not only enhance the flavor and presentation but also reflect the evolving landscape of gastronomy.

13.1. Molecular Gastronomy

Molecular gastronomy involves the scientific study of cooking and the application of scientific principles to culinary practice. Techniques such as spherification, emulsification, and sous vide cooking are often employed to create innovative dishes with unique textures and flavors. For example, the Liquid Nitrogen Frozen Sweet Potato Mousse at the Swirled Showcase exemplifies molecular gastronomy, using liquid nitrogen to create a smooth and creamy texture while enhancing the flavors.

13.2. Fermentation

Fermentation is an ancient culinary technique that has experienced a resurgence in recent years. It involves the use of microorganisms to transform foods, resulting in complex flavors and textures. Fermented ingredients such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha are increasingly featured in dishes at the festival, adding depth and umami to the culinary offerings.

13.3. Sous Vide Cooking

Sous vide is a cooking technique that involves sealing food in airtight bags and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature. This method ensures even cooking and enhances the tenderness and juiciness of meats, vegetables, and other ingredients. Sous vide cooking is often used to prepare dishes like the Braised Beef Poutine at the Refreshment Port, resulting in perfectly cooked and flavorful beef.

13.4. Fusion Cuisine

Fusion cuisine combines elements of different culinary traditions to create innovative and harmonious dishes. This approach often involves blending flavors, ingredients, and techniques from various cultures to create unique and exciting culinary experiences. The Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich at Connections Eatery, which combines Korean flavors with American sandwich traditions, is an example of fusion cuisine.

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival

14.1. What are the dates for the 2024 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival?

The festival runs from August 29th to November 23rd, 2024.

14.2. Do I need a separate ticket to attend the festival?

No, the festival is included with regular EPCOT admission. However, food and beverages are an additional cost.

14.3. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes, many global marketplaces offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for the plant-based symbol on the menu boards.

14.4. Can I make reservations for culinary demonstrations or seminars?

Yes, reservations are recommended for culinary demonstrations and seminars. Check the festival schedule for details.

14.5. Are there discounts available for Disney Vacation Club members or Annual Passholders?

Yes, Disney Vacation Club members and Annual Passholders may be eligible for discounts on select food and beverages.

14.6. Can I use Disney Dining Plan credits at the festival?

Yes, you can use Disney Dining Plan credits at select global marketplaces.

14.7. Is there a way to track my spending at the festival?

Yes, you can purchase a Disney Gift Card wristlet to easily track your spending.

14.8. Are there any special events or activities for kids?

Yes, the festival offers family-friendly activities such as Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt and character meet and greets.

14.9. Can I bring my own food and beverages into EPCOT?

Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed, with the exception of small snacks and water bottles.

14.10. Where can I find a map of the global marketplaces?

You can find a map of the global marketplaces in the Festival Passport or on the My Disney Experience app.

15. Global Gastronomy: Exploring Culinary History

The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is not only a celebration of contemporary cuisine but also a gateway to exploring the rich history and cultural significance of global gastronomy. Each dish and beverage featured at the festival tells a story, reflecting the unique traditions, ingredients, and culinary innovations of its region.

15.1. The Origins of Paella Negra (Spain)

Paella Negra, a signature dish from Spain, has roots that trace back to the coastal regions of Valencia. Originally a humble peasant dish, paella was made with rice, vegetables, and whatever meats or seafood were available. The addition of squid ink, which gives Paella Negra its distinctive black color and rich flavor, is a more recent innovation that elevates the dish to a gourmet level.

15.2. The Evolution of Chicken Tikka Masala (India)

Chicken Tikka Masala, a beloved dish from India, has a complex history that reflects the cultural exchange between India and the United Kingdom. While the origins of Tikka (marinated and grilled chicken pieces) are firmly rooted in India, the addition of the creamy tomato-based sauce is believed to be a British innovation, created to appeal to Western palates.

15.3. The Heritage of Schinkennudeln (Germany)

Schinkennudeln, a comforting pasta dish from Germany, is a testament to the country’s culinary heritage. Made with pasta, ham, onions, and cheese, this dish is a staple in many German households, reflecting the simplicity and heartiness of traditional German cuisine.

15.4. The Significance of Feijoada (Brazil)

Feijoada, the national dish of Brazil, is a hearty stew made with black beans, pork, and a variety of other meats. Its origins can be traced back to the colonial era, when slaves would use leftover cuts of meat to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Today, feijoada is a symbol of Brazilian identity and culinary pride.