10 Top Tips for the 2025 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is back for 2025, and while the booths, merch, and entertainment are worth celebrating, the event, or any of EPCOT’s festivals,  can feel overwhelming without a plan. Over the years I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and how to enjoy the day without burning out in the Florida heat. From hydration hacks to finding the best shade, here are my top 10 insider tips for tackling the festival.

1. Start at the Back of World Showcase

One of the best lessons learned from past years is to start in the back of World Showcase. While most people stop at Mexico or Canada first, heading straight to France, Morocco, or Japan makes a huge difference. You’ll get ahead of the crowds who jam things up at the front of the Showcase, and it feels just a bit less intimidating. As a bonus, the lines at the Global Marketplaces will be shorter earlier in the day at the back of the park, and you can pace yourself better. Think of it as working smarter, not harder; by the time you loop back to the front, you’ll already have enjoyed some of the festival’s best dishes.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

I can’t say this enough: bring a refillable water bottle. The Food & Wine Festival will have you walking everywhere, often in direct sun, and by the time you feel thirsty, it’s already too late. I refill my bottle constantly, especially in August and September when the heat is at its worst. Pro tip: take advantage of the refill stations and shady spots before your body reminds you of how very hot it is.

3. Make the Festival Passport Your Best Friend

The festival passport is more than just a cute keepsake; it’s your planning tool. I dog-ear my favorites, jot down what’s new, and keep notes on which booths I want to prioritize. There’s also a QR code right in the front that takes you to allergy-friendly menus. If you have dietary needs, this is a lifesaver because it keeps you from having to track down a chef or flip through binders.

4. It’s Not the Fun Thing to Do, but You’ve Gotta Pace Your Portions

I know that it’s tempting to try absolutely everything you lay eyes on, but festival food takes up precious stomach space quickly. Balance heavier dishes with lighter snacks. Spain’s Paella Caldoso is hearty enough to feel like a full meal, while the sweet potato fries at the Fry Basket lean into the dessert category. Mixing savory and sweet, heavy and light, will keep you from hitting a wall halfway through the day.

5. Budget Wisely

Not every booth is created equal. Some items are a great value, while others feel overpriced for the portion. This year’s flautas at the Mexico Global Marketplace, for example, are egregiously small for the price. On the other hand, Greece’s Griddled Cheese with honey and pistachios is a fantastic deal at just over five dollars. Know ahead of time which items give you the best bang for your buck, and don’t be afraid to skip dishes that don’t live up to the hype. Your Disney snack dollars are way too precious not to.

6. Take Shade Breaks Indoors

Florida heat can wear you down no matter which EPCOT festival you’re visiting, so build shade breaks into your day. The Odyssey Brew-Wing Lab is air-conditioned, filled with tables, and doubles as a themed space with fun festival (and Muppets) touches. Connections Café is another great spot to regroup and refuel. Even a quick pause at the shady America Gardens Theatre during an Eat to the Beat concert gives you a break from walking in the sun.

7. Time Your Festival Day

Booths open at 11 a.m., so plan your morning accordingly. Arriving early means you’ll already be inside EPCOT and ready to jump in when the food booths start serving. Lines are shorter right after opening and tend to get longest around dinner hours. Evening concerts are another factor; if you want a seat, plan to line up a bit early, especially for popular performers.

8. Don’t Forget Emile’s Fromage Montage

If you love cheese (and who doesn’t?), make Emile’s Fromage Montage part of your plan. Collect stamps by ordering select cheesy dishes across World Showcase, and you’ll earn a completer treat at the end. It’s a fun way to structure your snacking and makes the experience feel like a scavenger hunt. Greece’s Griddled Cheese is always a winner, and I’m happy to say that it counts toward your tally.

9. Pack the Right Gear

The Food and Wine Festival might feel like fall, but, as I’ve mentioned, the Florida heat is no joke. Think lightweight fabrics, comfy shoes, and as little layering as possible. Boots may look cute in photos, but they’re not made for walking miles around World Showcase. Bring an umbrella (even if you leave it in your park bag) because as I learned the hard way, living on a prayer without one is a gamble that’ll likely leave you quite soggy.

10. Explore the Merchandise

Food may be the star, but festival merchandise is half the fun. From Figment mugs to festival-exclusive pins, the merch is designed to match the energy and flavors of the festival. If you see something you love, be sure to grab it early as popular items sell out fast. You’ll want that festival shirt or wine glass to remember the day, trust me. 

My Final Thoughts

Any EPCOT festival is as much about planning as it is about eating. Start at the back, stay hydrated, balance your portions, and take advantage of shaded spots. With the right strategy, you can savor the best of what the festival offers without feeling overwhelmed.

So grab your passport, lace up your squishiest shoes, and let’s do this. Just remember: hydrate often, take breaks, and above all, leave no paella behind.