Disney News

Category: Epcot

  • Preview of Epcot Updates Coming to D23 Expo 2019

    Preview of Epcot Updates Coming to D23 Expo 2019

    The D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim is just under three months away and Disney plans on unveiling more of their massive transformative plans for Epcot at the event. To whet your appetite, here are three things to look forward to.

    • The park’s core reimagined: You’ve already heard about the transformation taking place just inside the park’s entrance, where they will be enhancing the area with lush green spaces and classic touches. At the Expo, Disney will share more about what’s coming to the core of the park on the opposite side of Spaceship Earth. New areas will be flanking the iconic attraction and you can look forward to details on those.
    • A new – but classic – look to match Epcot offerings: Longtime fans of Epcot are familiar with the pavilion icons, like the ones you see here for Imagination!, The Land and The Seas with Nemo & Friends. With new experiences like the previously announced play-themed pavilion joining these Epcot staples will be new icons to match.
    • More about what makes Epcot, Epcot – Epcot is special for a lot of reasons – as one of Walt’s final projects, as an exclusive part of the Walt Disney World Resort, and as home to millions of memories from generations of guests. As Disney charges ahead with the park’s evolution, the architects of Epcot’s future are working to preserve all the elements that make this park so special while also evolving it to be more Disney, more family, more relevant and more timeless. At the Expo, you’ll hear more about experiences that are uniquely Epcot – for example, the updated films coming to Future World and World Showcase, as well as new dining experiences being added to the menu of ‘the foodie park.’

    Well, there you go – three things to tide you over in the three months leading up to the D23 Expo. Let us know what you think about the changes in the comments. And be sure to keep it locked here on Disney Dorks where we’ll have all the news from the Expo.

  • BREAKING: Space-Themed Restaurant Coming to Epcot Will Open Later This Year

    BREAKING: Space-Themed Restaurant Coming to Epcot Will Open Later This Year

    As we previously reported, a one-of-a-kind, space-themed restaurant is currently planned for Epcot that’ll offer guests amazing meals and a spectacular view – from high above Earth and today, Disney announced that this new restaurant will be open for business by the end of 2019.

    The restaurant was initially announced in summer 2017 and once completed, the restaurant will invite guests to travel to space for an amazing dining experience in the stars. Menu details are few, but we know they have developed a menu that features internationally-inspired cuisine, more than 1,000 bottles of the world’s finest wines and a wide selection of craft beer.

    The new restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group, led by Nick Valenti, which operates several other restaurants around Walt Disney World Resort, including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs.

    But Epcot guests don’t have to wait until the restaurant opens to enjoy a thrilling adventure in space. In summer 2017, the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction launched new experiences: the enhanced Orange Mission offers a truly intense experience that lets guests feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars; while the all-new, family-friendly Green Mission takes guests on an exciting orbit around Earth.

    The price point for the new restaurant is still a mystery and there has been no announcement about its name.

  • VIDEO: U.S. Navy Blue Angels Perform Flyovers at Epcot

    VIDEO: U.S. Navy Blue Angels Perform Flyovers at Epcot

    Yesterday, guests visiting Epcot cheered as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels performed several magical passes above the iconic Spaceship Earth attraction in honor of Military Appreciation Month.

    The Blue Angels executed two flyovers at 500 feet, roaring by at speeds of more than 250 mph.  During one of the passes, the pilots performed a perfect “Delta Break” maneuver above the Spaceship Earth.  

    Many guests at Epcot, which included visiting U.S.military personnel, veterans and their families, said it was a special experience watching some of the world’s best pilots in action during their Disney vacation. Take a look at the amazing video below:

    “I did two tours in Vietnam and I was on the USS Somers and to see them go right over Spaceship Earth and on the second pass, when they split up – it was awesome,” Epcot guest and Navy veteran James Fredricks said. “I can’t help myself from getting emotional about it.”

    Supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and celebrating their service has long been a Disney tradition. After the celebration at Epcot, the Blue Angels travel south – to the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in Florida.

  • Disney Reveals Test Footage of New Nighttime Spectacular Replacing Illuminations at Epcot

    Disney Reveals Test Footage of New Nighttime Spectacular Replacing Illuminations at Epcot

    As we previously reported, Disney is ending the nearly 20 year run of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth as Epcot’s nighttime spectacular and they have now released test footage of some of the new technology that will be featured in the shows replacement as well as premiere dates.

    We will bid a fond farewell to “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at Epcot on September 30, 2019 and the new show “Epcot Forever” will debut in it’s place the following night on October 1, 2019. The all-new, limited-time spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers and choreographed, special effects kites.

    The show will take us on a journey through the past, present and future of Epcot. Featuring a stirring collection of songs that paint a colorful picture of the park, this nighttime extravaganza will offer both a trip down memory lane and a look towards the future and all the magical possibilities still to come. Take as look at the video below:

    Disney Parks Live Entertainment is busy getting “Epcot Forever” ready for its opening day. Show Director Alan Bruun recently shared some details about the concept behind the show and the team’s collaboration with noted conductor and composer Don Harper, who is producing new arrangements of classic Epcot tunes to weave into the soundtrack of “Epcot Forever.”

    “Epcot Forever” will continue into 2020, when the next epic nighttime extravaganza makes its debut.

  • Exclusive Star Wars Event Coming to Epcot for DVC Members in April

    Exclusive Star Wars Event Coming to Epcot for DVC Members in April

    A one-night-only Star Wars: Galactic Gathering will turn the World ShowPlace pavilion at Epcot into an exclusive Star Wars experience for Disney Vacation Club Members and special guests on April 10 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

    During this Membership Magic event, Disney Vacation Club Members and special guests will enjoy Star Wars-themed foods and beverages, meet favorite Star Warscharacters, pose for photos with Star Wars set pieces and props, and more. (That’s a whole lot of Star Wars).

    The culinary team behind this event has developed a carefully crafted menu that promises to satisfy even a Wookiee-sized appetite. The epic lineup includes hors d’oeuvres, specialty beverages and all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet featuring a salad cone station (try the Endor Cous Cous!), a small-bites station (including a Tatooine Cheeseburger Spring Roll), a bowl action station (with Alderaan Bean Wat with Basmati Scented Rice and Cilantro among the options) and a carving station. Sweet options range from a Blue Milk Panna Cotta to Darth Vader Cupcakes to BB-8 Mousse Domes.

    When you aren’t blasting through the buffet or snapping selfies with treasures of the Star Wars galaxy, you’ll dance to the tunes of a DJ who will provide a stellar soundtrack to transport you to your favorite planet. 

    The cost per person is $225 for adults and $210 for children (inclusive of tax and gratuity), and separate Theme Park admission is required. Eligible Members can book this experience for themselves and as many as 5 guests, per Membership. Members may make reservations here. Enjoy the party, and may the Force be with you.

  • 5-Layer Rainbow Flower Cotton Candy Now at Epcot is Instgram-Worthy Yumminess

    5-Layer Rainbow Flower Cotton Candy Now at Epcot is Instgram-Worthy Yumminess

    Disney debuted their all-new Spring Fantasy Cotton Candy treat for Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival and it’s five layers of stunningly beautiful sugary goodness.

    This is a can’t-miss menu item if you’re planning a spring visit to the parks. It’s five fluffy layers of international delight are each a different color and it will be available to guests at Epcot in Walt Disney World throughout the festival.

    The trend, which originated in China, not only garnered major Instagram fame for its magical five layer flower aesthetic, but also for the near-hypnotizing process of how it’s made. The flower shaped cotton candy is the perfect fit for the festival. Take a look how it’s made below:

    It can be found at the Lotus House in the China Pavilion at the World Showcase, and if you want to get all five layers, it’s going to set you back $15.

  • Epcot’s Spaceship Earth-Inspired Mickey Sipper Arrives at Disney World

    Epcot’s Spaceship Earth-Inspired Mickey Sipper Arrives at Disney World

    Mickey already turned 90, but Disney Parks is celebrating all year long and even the merchandise at Epcot celebrates the mouse. A Mickey Mouse shaped, Spaceship Earth inspired sipper has made its way to Disney Parks.

    Mickey already has a sipper of his own, but this Epcot themed sipper also pays homage to everyone’s favorite pal as well as the classic Epcot attraction.

    The sipper retails for $16.99 and can be found in Mouse Gear at Epcot in Walt Disney World.

  • New Violet Lemonade Minnie Ears Avaiable at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

    New Violet Lemonade Minnie Ears Avaiable at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

    The 2019 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is in full bloom and the Violet Lemonade Minnie Ears are super cute and your definitely going to want them on your must have list this year.

    I finally got my hands on a pair of these and they are totes adorbs. This cute set of ears have violet glittery ears and a band covered with violet flowers and lemon wedges!

    These ears go great with the “Put A Little Zest in Your Fest” merchandise, much of which features prominently the yummy frozen Violet Lemonade as you can see below:

    A lot of the merch also comes in matching violet and is adorned with the same violet flowers and lemon wedges.

    After you have the whole ensemble you want to cap it of with a Violet Lemonade Ale from Playalinda Brewing Company while you stroll the park.

    You can find festival merchandise at Mouse Gear, the Festival Merchandise area in the Odyssey Center, and Festival Markets located around the park. A selection of Festival merchandise will be available on ShopDisney.com.

  • Construction Worker Dies in Fall at Epcot in Disney World

    Construction Worker Dies in Fall at Epcot in Disney World

    A worker died after falling at a construction site behind the France pavilion in the Epcot theme park at Walt Disney World, according to Orange County Sheriff’s officials.

    58-year-old George Grimes fell shortly after 5 p.m. Tuesday. Deputies did not specify what the man was doing when he fell.

    “We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of one of our team members in a tragic accident,” the company said in a statement “We are working closely with the local authorities.”

    The Reedy Creek Fire Department said the man died at the scene. No additional details were available.

  • Complete 2019 Band Lineup for Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

    Complete 2019 Band Lineup for Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

    Garden Rocks Concert Series is back – every single day of the 26th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and we have the complete line up of bands for you.

    For the first time since the popular spring extravaganza expanded to 90 days, Garden Rocks concerts will play seven days a week, three times daily, for a total of 270 concerts spanning multiple genres across four decades of chart-topping hits.

    Twelve brand-new Garden Rocks acts include: A Flock of Seagulls, Ambrosia, Peabo Bryson, War, Eddie Palmieri, Colin Hay of Men at Work, TobyMac, Steven Curtis Chapman, John Michael Montgomery, Magic Giant, Jon Anderson of YES and Journey former lead vocalist Steve Auger. Other new-to-this-festival acts that have performed at other Walt Disney World events include Glass Tiger, Wang Chung, Air Supply and more.

    Guests can dance in their seats each evening to classic tunes at the park’s outdoor America Gardens Theatre overlooking the World Showcase Lagoon.  An eclectic mix of Flower & Garden Festival fan favorites includes 1960s icons Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, ’70s-’80s chart-toppers Rick Springfield, Dennis Deyoung and Don Felder, and ’90s hit-makers Sister Hazel.

    Performance times are 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. and are included with Epcot admission. Guests can enjoy guaranteed concert seating by reserving a Garden Rocks Dining Package and enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner at select Epcot restaurants. Here is this year’s lineup (subject to change without notice):

    • March 6-8: Journey former lead vocalist STEVE AUGERI (NEW) “Don’t Stop Believin’”
    • March 9-10: Glass Tiger (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)”
    • March 11-12: Jon Anderson of YES (NEW) “Owner of A Lonely Heart”
    • March 13-14: Tony Orlando “Knock Three Times”
    • March 15-16: Wang Chung (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Everybody Have Fun Tonight”
    • March 17-20: Simple Plan “Perfect”
    • March 21-22: Ambrosia (NEW) “Biggest Part of Me”
    • March 23-24: Magic Giant (NEW) “Set on Fire”
    • March 25-27: Air Supply (NEW to Garden Rocks) “All Out of Love”
    • March 28-29: Berlin featuring Terri Nunn “Take My Breath Away”
    • March 30-31: The Smithereens (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Top of the Pops”
    • April 1-2: Rick Springfield “Jessie’s Girl”
    • April 3-4: Christopher Cross (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Sailing”
    • April 5-7: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”
    • April 8-9: Dennis DeYoung, original member of the group STYX “Come Sail Away”
    • April 10-11: John Michael Montgomery (NEW) “I Love the Way You Love Me”
    • April 12-13: Sister Sledge (NEW to Garden Rocks) “We Are Family”
    • April 14-16: Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
    • April 17-19: Sister Hazel (NEW to Garden Rocks) “All For You”
    • April 20-21: Steven Curtis Chapman (NEW) “Cinderella”
    • April 22-23: TobyMac (NEW) “The Elements”
    • April 24-26: Lonestar “Amazed”
    • April 27-30: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
    • May 1-4: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am”
    • May 5-7: Don Felder, Formerly of the Eagles “Hotel California”
    • May 8-9: A Flock of Seagulls (NEW) “I Ran (So Far Away)”
    • May 10-11: Marshall Tucker Band (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Heard It in a Love Song”
    • May 12-13: Peabo Bryson (NEW) “If You’re Ever In My Arms Again”
    • May 14-15: Richard Marx (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Right Here Waiting”
    • May 16-19: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
    • May 20-21: Colin Hay of Men at Work (NEW) “Who Can It Be Now?”
    • May 22-23: War (NEW) “Why Can’t We Be Friends”
    • May 24-27: The Guess Who “American Woman”
    • May 28-29: Jon Secada “Just Another Day”
    • May 30-June 1: Blood, Sweat and Tears “Spinning Wheel”
    • June 2-3: Eddie Palmieri (NEW) “Vamonos Pa’l Monte”