Top 5 Special Events at Disney World

Every day is a special day at Walt Disney World! But, sometimes Disney pours out a little extra pixie dust and arranges special events that are completely worth the extra ticket admission (if necessary), in our opinion. Count down with us as we list the top five special events at Disney World that you’ll want to add to your Disney “must-do list” today!

5 – Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

This annual event at Epcot has become a popular favorite among many Disney fans! The International Flower and Garden Festival is a spring event in which Disney has a chance to show off its impeccable landscaping and gardening skills. Bright colors, sense-satisfying aromas, and lush greenery are just about everywhere you turn at Epcot during the festival. While there are a few extra admission costs for tours and events, most all of the Flower and Garden Festival is open to any guest entering Epcot’s gates with a valid theme park ticket! The festival boasts breathtaking gardens, topiary art in the form of several favorite Disney characters, how-to seminars, outdoor kitchens, play areas for the kids, a butterfly garden, and an outdoor concert series with some classic hits. We purposely try to arrange our trips around the spring season so we don’t miss the beauty! This festival runs from early March to late May.

4 – Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Visit the World Showcase at Epcot this holiday season. Explore how each of the 11 countries celebrates the holiday season with unique traditions that include all of the senses. Taste the delicious holiday cuisines, listen to seasonal music, and be prepared to take photos of the special costumed performers. The best part, in our opinion, is the Candlelight Processional! A 50-piece orchestra, a mass choir, and a celebrity narrator share the story of Christmas. We have goosebumps just thinking about it! Like the Flower and Garden Festival above, guests need a valid park ticket to enjoy this special event. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Epcot glow under all the shimmering lights!

3 -Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

While we’re talking about the Christmas season, what better way to celebrate than to party with Mickey! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is one of our favorite things to do during the holiday season! You’ll experience snow on Main Street U.S.A., sing along to your favorite Christmas tunes, enjoy a live stage show in front of Cinderella Castle, catch the parade, and ooh and aah in the glow of fireworks! Buy your special tickets as soon as possible, as this event does tend to sell out.

2 – Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Have you ever wanted to taste your way around the world? Well – we have a special annual event for you! The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is held from late August through mid-November. When you enter that World Showcase at Epcot with valid theme park admission, you’ll immediately begin to smell the flavors of the world. Stands and kiosks seem to be just about everywhere, with special sampling and plates of uniquely flavored food, plus beer and wine, from several different countries. Why not “Eat to the Beat” while you’re enjoying the amazing food with a concert series led by popular artists? The other costs, of course, are the food and wine you plan to taste! You can purchase Food and Wine Cards, so you don’t have to reach for the wallet at every station, which acts much like a gift card.

1 – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a favorite for many. Kids especially love trick-or-treating, as Magic Kingdom is open to special ticket holders for the event only. This fan-favorite event includes Halloween-themed fireworks, Mickey’s Boo to You parade, and the must-see stage show featuring the Sanderson Sisters! The event also includes many rare and themed character meet and greets! What would trick-or-treating be without costume?! Guests of all ages are welcome to wear costumes, but remember that there are costume guidelines.

What is your favorite special event? We’d love to hear from you!