A Masterpiece in the Making: Our 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Review
The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has officially kicked off (running now through February 23, 2026), and it is truly a masterpiece. From high-stakes trading card quests to giant Broadway props, this year’s festival feels bigger and more interactive than ever.
Here is our recap of the best food, fun, and “secret” finds from our opening day visit!
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Visual Arts: Figment, Broadway, and Sidewalk Magic
The festival’s mascot, Figment, is out in full force this year. Our first stop was Creations Shop, which has been completely taken over by the purple dragon. The 2026 merchandise collection is stunning, featuring everything from Minnie ears, and tumblers, to pins and stylish apparel.
Figment’s Brush with the Masters: This remains our favorite way to see the World Showcase. For $9.99, you get a map and stickers to hunt for Figment as he “photo-bombs” famous paintings hidden in each pavilion. It’s a low-stress, high-reward activity that ends with a special festival keepsake.
Chalk Artistry: Don’t forget to look down! The sidewalk galleries are back, featuring 3D chalk art that looks like it’s popping right out of the pavement. Watching the artists work in real-time is a masterclass in perspective.
A must-see is the “30 Years of Disney on Broadway” exhibit at Communicore Hall.
This walkthrough celebration showcases costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes insights into the stage adaptations of beloved classics like “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
The 1,200-Pound Icon: Near CommuniCore Hall, you’ll find a massive 1,400-mile traveler: the 14-foot Genie’s Lamp. Normally perched atop the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York, this authentic prop from Aladdin on Broadway is a showstopper. Seeing it up close makes you appreciate the sheer scale of theatrical production.
Performing Arts: The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series
If there is one thing you cannot miss, it is the concert series at the America Gardens Theatre. Hearing Broadway’s brightest stars belt out Disney classics under the Florida stars is enough to give anyone goosebumps.
The 2026 Details:
- Showtimes: 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM nightly.
- The Lineup: This year features incredible pairs, including newcomers like Isabelle McCalla (Aladdin) and Sierra Boggess (The Little Mermaid).
- The Finale: If you’re visiting at the very end (Feb 22–23), they do a massive grand finale featuring a huge cast, including the legendary Susan Egan (the original Belle and voice of Megara) and James Monroe Iglehart (the original Genie).
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New for 2026: Disney Lorcana at EPCOT
The biggest surprise this year is the integration of the Disney Lorcana TCG. It has completely transformed the Morocco Pavilion into a hub for “Illumineers.”
- The Questbook: Pick up a free Questbook at the World Showcase Bridge.
- Ink & Find: Find giant Lorcana cards around the park to earn an exclusive Rapunzel – Appreciative Artist promo card.
- The Collector Quest: Trade cards at the Illumineer’s Lounge (inside Morocco) to earn a Donald Duck – Pie Slinger promo card.
- Pro-Tip: If you buy the Archazia’s Island Illumineer’s Trove at Disney Traders, you’ll snag a bonus Stitch – Rock Star promo card!
Culinary Arts: Our Booth Reviews
We headed straight to Fictional Victuals, a booth that uses “literary references” to inspire its menu. This year, the theme is Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Fictional Victuals (Alice in Wonderland Theme)
- Chapter 2: Plate of Impossible Bites ($7.49): A total hit! Despite being “impossible,” the roasted turkey was moist and flavorful. The onion and bacon custard tart was the standout—even for those who aren’t big onion fans.
- Chapter 3: Tea Treat ($5.99): This one is for the true tea lovers. The Earl Grey flavor is very prominent. While the lemon madeleine was perfectly light, the overall tea profile was a bit heavy for us.
Figment’s Inspiration Station (The Odyssey)
- Figment Fantasy Cake: INCREDIBLE. This was light, fluffy, and the strawberry whipped cream was perfect. It’s easily one of the best desserts of the festival.
- Popcorn, Popcorn Chicken & Waffles: A fun, savory-sweet combo in a bubble waffle. Word of advice: Ask for the syrup on the side to avoid a sticky mess!
SECRET DRINK ALERT: Head to La Cava del Tequila in Mexico and say the code “Dom sent me” to order the “La Artgarita.” It’s a $21 masterpiece with LALO Blanco Tequila and honeydew liqueur, served in a limited-edition souvenir cup. It’s strong, so sip slowly!
The Expression Section: A Paint by Numbers Mural remains a highlight—there’s nothing like seeing thousands of guests come together to finish a giant painting. And don’t forget to look down! The chalk artists near the park entrance and World Showcase have created some mind-bending 3D works this year.
The 2026 Festival of the Arts is a vibrant, colorful, and delicious celebration. Whether you’re there for the incredible art, stunning visuals, interactive fun or delicious bites, there is something around every corner to spark your imagination.
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