Happy first day of October everyone! It's a big day for Walt Disney World because not only is today the anniversary of the Magic Kingdom (and the opening of the Walt Disney World Resort itself), but it's also the beginning of EPCOT's milestone 40th anniversary! That's right, today we celebrate the "Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow's" big 4-0. Let's take a look into how this next year is going to be the best year yet at EPCOT.
You can't celebrate without a cake, right?
One of our favorite things about celebrations at Walt Disney World is the fun, limited-time sweet treats that are offered. While this year's special snacks are only on the menu for a short period of time (fingers crossed they extend it), they are too cute not to share some of our favorites.
Some of the highlights are:
The EPCOT 40th Liege Waffle. Picture the perfect brioche dough waffle with pearl sugar, that can be found at Connections Café. While a waffle may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you want a snack, this cutie really hits the spot.
The 40th Fiesta aka a tasty frozen margarita in a “MEXICO 40” souvenir cup. This Mexico pavilion drink, found at Choza de Magarita, will have you saying "sip, sip, horray" as you make your way around the World Showcase.
...and who could forget to mention this Figment inspired sponge cake found at Sunshine Seasons. It's packed full of a citrus mousse and pure imagination.
Show me the Merch!
Every good party at a Disney Destination means new merch to "live your best Disney life in." This celebration is no exception. During the 40th celebration, you can expect everything from the perfect new spirit jersey to a purse that compliments every color of the rainbow.
Photos Compliments of Disney Parks
What's here and what's coming...
EPCOT is ever evolving and we're always excited to see what's next! ...and recently we've celebrated the arrival of three major additions.
Space 220
This new restaurant has been a hit since its opening day last year (Sept 20). Where else can you "journey 220 miles into the sky" and dine among the stars? There's no denying that this restaurant is "out-of-this-world." It offers space inspired dining and features a lounge for those who want to enjoy a more casual atmosphere. **Special Note: You'll want to grab an Advance Dining Reservation to check out this restaurant on your next trip to EPCOT.**
Remy's Ratatouille Adventure
Located in the France Pavilion, this 3-D ride shrinks you down to the size of a mouse (technically a rat) and takes you on an adventure through the kitchen of Chef Gusteau's famous Parisian restaurant. Perfect for adults and even the littlest chefs, it's sure to be a family favorite at this park. **Grab a Genie+ Lightning Lane pass to save time on this ride.**
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Who wouldn't want to join the Guardians of the Galaxy and save the universe from evil? This upbeat, indoor "rollercoaster" attraction features the entire Guardians cast, along with some other familiar faces. It also features a new type of villain, that is just starting to show up in the Marvel Universe. ** To experience this ride, you'll want to snag a Virtual Pass or a paid Lighting Lane pass. Contact your MMV agent for tips on how to secure the Virtual Pass option.**
The Future of EPCOT
With these three new additions, we still have so much to look forward to in the coming months and year at EPCOT. Throughout the remainder of 2022 and through 2023 EPCOT's "World Celebration" neighborhood will continue with its construction. Here guests will be able to see "Dreamers Point" which will feature a very special statue of Walt Disney. Communicore Hall and Communicore Plaza will also debut. These new areas will serve as a central location for the festivals that take place each year at EPCOT, as well as be a place for your family and friends to relax and enjoy each other's company. Over in "World Nature," the new Journey of Water will debut. Inspired by Moana, this exploration trail will allow guests to learn "the story of water" on our planet, in a fun and interactive way.
Video courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
EPCOT's Renowned Festivals
On top of the new attractions that have arrived at EPCOT and the magic that still awaits, we can't forget to mention the amazing festivals that take place yearly at EPCOT. From the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts to the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, there is something for everyone at this amazing park. We look forward to everything this next year may bring for EPCOT and remind you that now, more than ever, is the perfect time to plan your family's 2023 magical moments.
Happy Anniversary EPCOT!
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