11 Must-Know Tips for the Ultimate EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival Getaway
August 1, 2025
Sunshine, savory bites, and a salt-rimmed margarita in hand. That’s the recipe for an Orlando vacation done right. Guests staying at the Margaritaville Cottages and Villas are perfectly placed to enjoy it all, especially when the EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival is in full swing. This flavorful celebration pairs perfectly with laid-back island living, and we’ve got the tips to help you make the most of every delicious moment.
So, What’s this Festival All About?
The EPCOT® International Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of global cuisine, seasonal sips, and culinary creativity. It runs from late August through mid-November, giving you plenty of time to plan your flavorful getaway. Dozens of booths line the World Showcase and surrounding areas, serving up dishes from across the globe, all in the heart of Central Florida.
First-time guests and longtime fans can enjoy tasting new creations, exploring cultural favorites, and discovering fresh pairings with every step. With live entertainment, culinary demos, and menus that evolve each year, this festival brings the flavor in every sense.
1. Early Bites, Easy Mornings
Starting the day with a light breakfast, like a smoothie or some fresh fruit, is a great way to ease into the morning while saving room for all the delicious bites waiting at the festival. You can whip something up at home, or if you’re staying at Margaritaville Cottages and Villas, take full advantage of your private kitchen and start the day on island time.
For guests who’d rather skip the cooking, Provisions offers grab-and-go bites and fresh coffee to fuel the fun. Those looking to linger a little longer can settle in at Euphoria for a full breakfast with plenty of flavor and zero rush. However you begin, the morning sets the tone for a carefree, flavor-filled day ahead.
2. Festival Prep Like a Pro
Before diving into the deliciousness, make sure you check the weather. Florida weather can be unpredictable, so dress light with breathable fabrics and comfy shoes. A hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen help keep things cool and comfortable. It can get cooler in the later months, so throw a hoodie in your bag and keep an eye on the forecast before you head out.
Pack light but smart. Bring a refillable water bottle, a portable fan or cooling towel, and a small crossbody or belt bag for essentials. Don’t forget a poncho or rain jacket in case of afternoon showers. With everything in place, you’ll be ready to stroll, sip, and snack your way through the festival with ease.
3. Take the Laid-Back Route with a Shuttle
The complimentary shuttle from Margaritaville Resort Orlando to Walt Disney World® Resort makes getting there part of the fun. Guests may book their shuttle through the concierge or ticket desk in the lobby or simply book online through Maingate Transportation (opens in a new tab).
To ensure your spot, shuttle reservations can be made as early as one day in advance and up to one hour before departure. It’s a convenient, stress-free way to head straight to the heart of the festival without having to worry about parking.
4. Tap Into the Flavor with Your MagicBand
The MagicBand keeps everything simple. From park entry to Lightning Lanes, it handles the details. Linking a Disney gift card to your MagicBand makes paying for food and drinks at the festival effortless. Just tap and taste without ever reaching for your wallet. With one less thing to carry, the only focus is enjoying every bite and moment.
5. Check the Booths, Then Chase the Bites
Planning your flavor route keeps the day deliciously smooth. Check the My Disney Experience app for real-time booth menus or grab a festival guide at the park entrance for the full lineup. Mapping out your must-tries ahead of time helps you find those can’t-miss bites and keeps your day focused on savoring, not searching.
6. Go Global One Bite at a Time
Every booth is a passport stamp for your taste buds, with flavors from around the globe waiting to be discovered. Take your time because this festival is meant for wandering. Sip a chilled Chardonnay in France, enjoy bold street food in Mexico, and try sushi or sake in Japan, all in one afternoon.
Along the way, enjoy live music, themed décor, and quick access to the park’s top attractions like Soarin’ Around the World and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. With global cuisine, entertainment, and world-class rides all in one place, it’s a celebration you can enjoy entirely at your own pace.
7. Time It Right for the Concert Series
The Eat to the Beat concert series brings top artists to the America Gardens Theatre for a full day of feel-good music and festival fun. Included with your EPCOT® theme park admission, these live performances add even more flavor to your day at the park. From afternoon sets to evening headliners, the lineup features favorites like Boyz II Men, Hanson, Sugar Ray, 98°, Sheila E., and Joey Fatone. Arrive early to grab a great spot, kick back, and let the music carry you from bites to beats.
8. Sip Responsibly, Chill Endlessly
With so many wines, beers, and cocktails to sample, staying hydrated is the ultimate pro move. As we said before, bring a refillable water bottle to keep cool between tastings and make hydration easy throughout the day.
9. Keep the Little Parakeets Smiling
The festival offers plenty of fun for younger travelers too. The park’s scavenger hunts, like Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak, turn exploring the park into a playful treasure hunt. There are plenty of kid-friendly bites at the global booths, plus sweet treats like macarons, mini churros, and colorful slushies that are sure to be a hit. Families can also enjoy interactive exhibits and hands-on craft stations sprinkled throughout the park.
10. Bring the Flavor Home
Festival goodies, cooking tips, and culinary souvenirs make perfect takeaways. In past years, festival-themed merchandise has included t-shirts, stemless wine glasses, cutting boards, cooking utensils, ornaments, and more. These fun keepsakes let you bring a little of the magic home.
Back at the cottage, the full kitchen and relaxed setting make it easy to recreate the experience with your crew, whether you’re testing new flavors or simply reliving your favorite bites.
11. Slide, Sip, and Stay Awhile
Margaritaville Cottages and Villas has something for everyone whether you’re traveling with a crew of adults or bringing along your favorite little parakeets. Complimentary admission to Island H2O Water Park adds a refreshing splash to your stay with thrilling slides, splash zones, and a lazy river the whole family can enjoy.
Back at the resort, kids can play at Fins Up Beach Club while adults sip frozen drinks at the Salty Rim Bar & Grill or unwind in a private cabana by the pool.
Enjoy live music at Sunset Walk, stretch out in your spacious cottage, or simply soak in the warm, tropical atmosphere together. From morning fun to evening relaxation, every moment off the festival path feels just as memorable.
The World Showcase is Calling, and So Is Paradise
With Margaritaville Cottages and Villas as your home base, every festival day ends with comfort in paradise. Taste, explore, relax, and repeat, all with a tropical twist.
Book your cottage or villa stay and let the flavor-filled festivities begin. Cheers to good eats, great company, and to Living Life on Vacation.
