Happy New Year!
It’s crazy that we’re already halfway into January and the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has started!
This year, the festival runs from January 16 – February 23, 2026 at Disney World. This festival will showcase the fine arts, performance arts, and culinary arts.
One of the exciting new features of this year’s festival is an exhibit called Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of DISNEY ON BROADWAY. Discover authentic props, costumes and behind-the-scenes insights as you explore the artistry of beloved stage productions—like The Lion King, Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast.
A returning favorite from past festivals is the Disney on Broadway Concert Series where major Broadway stars perform songs from Disney Broadway musicals. Shows take place on select days at 5:30pm, 6:45pm, and 8:00pm at the America Gardens Theatre in the America pavilion. The list of performers is listed on the concert series page above. Check it often for the latest updates.
If you want to guarantee yourself a seat, you may want to book a dining package. Some shows will fill up fast.
Throughout the day around the park, other musical acts will also be performing.
Another key component will be the unique food booths showcasing dishes with a more artistic flair. Some look almost too pretty to eat!
One of the most unique features of this festival will be the many opportunities to see and participate in artistic activities yourself.
Artists will be showcasing their paintings and even painting live during the day. You can also join your fellow park-goers in painting a giant paint-by-numbers type wall mural.
Other artists will be drawing the most amazing 3D chalk art images on the sidewalks that you can then take pictures with. You really look like you’re inside that drawing. They’re incredible!
There will also be new photo ops, PhotoPass Magic Shots, plenty of merch, and many other fun activities. This is a short but unique festival and is included with your valid EPCOT admission. Try to catch it.
For more details, visit the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts page.
We’ve attended this festival in past years and it was one of our favorites. As always, feel free to contact me if you want to chat about planning your Disney trip. We hope to see you there!
Pics ©Disney
Adventures By Anne 