Imagine sipping on a chilled glass of Chardonnay from California while indulging in a warm, flaky empanada from Argentina. Or maybe you’re more into a zesty slice of pizza paired with a robust Italian red? This isn’t just any foodie’s daydream—it’s a reality waiting for you at the 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival. Running from August 29 through November 23, this culinary adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to taste your way around the globe, without ever leaving Florida. And when it comes to accommodation, Casiola Orlando is the perfect home base to enhance your festival experience, blending comfort with convenience only minutes away from the heart of the excitement.
Festival highlights
The 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival is much more than an event, it’s a grand sensory voyage that encapsulates the vibrant essence of global cultures, cuisines, and communities. As you stroll through EPCOT’s iconic pathways, you’ll embark on a gastronomic tour that spans continents, offering a feast for the senses with an array of tastes, sights, and sounds from around the world. Every corner of the park transforms into a bustling marketplace, featuring authentic culinary delights that invite you to taste your way through dozens of international pavilions. From the aromatic spices of Morocco to the robust flavors of Germany, each bite offers a story, each sip a tradition.
Here are some of the can’t-miss highlights that await you at this year’s festival:
Global marketplaces
Explore over 30 unique booths, each representing a specific country or culinary style. These marketplaces are the heart and soul of the festival, where guests can enjoy authentic tastes and sips from around the world. Each booth is staffed by representatives native to the region, offering insights and stories that enhance the dining experience. Whether it’s your first time tasting haggis from Scotland or you’re craving the sweet delights of France’s pastries, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Signature dining experiences
For those looking for a more exclusive culinary affair, the festival offers special signature dining experiences. These events often feature celebrity chefs, gourmet multi-course meals, and expert pairings of wine and beer. Held in various EPCOT restaurants, these dining events are a perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the culinary arts under the guidance of world-renowned chefs.
Hands-on workshops and demonstrations
Engage directly with culinary masters through a series of hands-on workshops and cooking demonstrations. Learn from the best, as chefs share their techniques, recipes, and personal stories behind their dishes. These sessions not only provide practical cooking tips but also deepen your appreciation for the cultural significance behind the food.
Live entertainment
As you indulge in worldly flavors, the festival atmosphere is amplified by an eclectic mix of live music and performances. The Eat to the Beat concert series features popular bands and artists from across the musical spectrum, providing the perfect backdrop to your culinary journey. Additionally, traditional folk dancers, musicians, and artists from each featured country bring their heritage to life, creating a festive, immersive environment.
Family-friendly activities
The festival is a delight for all ages, with activities designed to engage and entertain the entire family. From scavenger hunts like Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak to kid-friendly cooking activities, there are plenty of opportunities for young ones to get in on the fun too.
Exclusive festival merchandise
Commemorate your visit with exclusive merchandise available only during the festival. From themed apparel and decorative items to limited-edition collectibles featuring beloved Disney characters, these keepsakes are perfect for remembering your flavorful adventure.
Exciting new additions
Last year, we introduced the Brew-Wing marketplace at the festival, which featured a delightful “Muppet”-theme. This unique experience, hosted by Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and Beaker from Muppet Labs, offered guests the chance to try out culinary experiments like the Peanut Butter and Jelly Sticky Wings or the Pickle Milkshake. This marketplace was a hit and will be returning in 2024 with even more quirky and delicious offerings.
Emile’s Fromage Montage (Returning in 2024)
For cheese lovers, don’t miss out on Emile’s Fromage Montage. This culinary crawl involves purchasing five cheese dishes from select global marketplaces. Each purchase gets you a stamp in your Festival Passport. Once you complete your passport, return it to claim a special prize—a cheesy delight that rewards your adventurous spirit!
With each step through the festival, you’re not just sampling food—you’re experiencing pieces of the world, brought together in celebration of diversity, creativity, and culinary excellence. The 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival promises to be an unforgettable exploration of the world’s flavors, right in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort®.
Tickets to taste
At the enchanting 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, your regular Disney World® tickets open the door to an exhilarating journey of flavors from across the globe! While your admission allows you to partake in the vibrant ambiance and the myriad activities that define this storied event, please remember that the myriad culinary delights and exquisite beverages are offered at an additional cost.
For all the epicureans embarking on this flavorful expedition, it’s essential to keep a budget in mind as the delectable offerings can quickly accumulate in cost. The festival features an array of kiosks throughout EPCOT, each presenting mouth-watering dishes that typically range between $4 and $9, with drink options spanning from $3 to $10. These prices are specifically designed to encourage you to explore and enjoy a diverse selection without stretching your wallet too thin.
The portions, intentionally small, are crafted to allow you to indulge in a vast selection of tastes without feeling overwhelmed. This thoughtful approach lets you weave through the World Showcase, sampling uniquely international flavors—from the zesty tang of authentic Mexican salsa to the rich, creamy texture of French fromage—creating a tapestry of taste that enhances your magical journey through Disney. Whether you’re sipping on a finely crafted German Riesling or nibbling on a succulent piece of Japanese sushi, each taste and sip offers a new discovery, turning your day at the festival into an unforgettable adventure in dining.
Why choose Casiola Orlando as your festival home base?
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Large 4 BR top floor condo, close to attractions!
Orlando
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Orlando, Florida, the luxury vacation home condo at Vista Cay Resort is a haven of comfort and extravagance. With its strategic location near the bustling I-Drive, Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and the enchanting Premium Outlets, this vacation home is a gateway to an unforgettable vacation experience. The moment you step into the condo, the expansive living room with 65" smart TV, electric fireplace and dining area welcome you with a sense of luxury and warmth. The tasteful furnishings and thoughtful layout create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and quality time with loved ones. The fully equipped kitchen, adorned with modern appliances and ample counter space, caters to the needs of culinary enthusiasts, offering a seamless cooking experience. Whether it's a quick snack or a gourmet feast, this kitchen is designed to meet your every culinary need. Additionally, the inclusion of a well-appointed laundry room adds a touch of convenience, allowing guests to make the most of their stay without the worry of laundry chores. The four bedrooms within the condo provide serene retreats after a day of exploration. The first room, featuring a luxurious king-size bed, is accompanied by a private and spacious bathroom complete with a refreshing shower, a relaxing bathtub, and a convenient sofa bed, providing a peaceful sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The second bedroom offers a comfortable queen bed, while the third bedroom features another queen bed, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for guests. The fourth bedroom boasts two queen beds, ensuring ample space for larger groups or families. Additionally, the condo is equipped with two full bathrooms, ensuring that every guest's needs are met with convenience and comfort. Vista Cay Resort itself is a testament to the highest standards of hospitality, offering a host of amenities that cater to every whim. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, or indulge in the delectable offerings at the on-site dining venues, the resort ensures that every moment of your stay is filled with comfort and luxury. Vista Cay Resort is not just a place to stay; it's an immersive experience that combines elegance, comfort, and convenience. Whether you're seeking adventure at the nearby attractions or simply looking to create cherished memories with your loved ones, this condo promises an unforgettable vacation experience that will stay with you for years to come.- 10
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$165/night -
Stunning ChampionsGate Home! *Private Pool/Spa + Game Room*
Orlando
Spacious, well appointed living areas and at-home amenities such as flat-screen TV's in each bedroom, a laundry room with washer and dryer, and complimentary Wi-Fi are just a few reasons why this ChampionsGate home is the perfect spot for your next Orlando trip. Plus, this vacation home is located just a few minutes from Disney World, Universal Studios, restaurants and shopping options! As a guest of ChampionsGate Resort, you will have free, unlimited access to all resort amenities, including: -25,000-square-foot "Oasis Clubhouse" -Zero-entry Family Pool and Whirlpool -Kids Pool and Splash Pad -3 Waterslides -Lazy River -Adults-only Pool -Tiki Bar -Spa -Full-service Restaurant and Bar -Fitness Center and Aerobics Room -Game/Arcade Room -Movie Theater -Volleyball and Tennis Courts -And more! THE SPACE: Blue skies and lush green landscapes stretch beyond the backyard lanai. While the kids swim in the sparkling pool you can lounge on the pool deck with a good book and cold cocktail. After the kiddos go to bed, sink into the warm waters of the hot tub. You can also dine al fresco at the patio table and cook out on the gas grill. The screened lanai even has a safety fence around the pool to keep the littlest guests safe. **Optional pool and spa heat is available for $35/day + tax. - We recommend adding this option to your reservation between the months of November and April.** Pulled from the pages of a design magazine, the open family room boasts a large sectional couch and flat-screen TV. The garage-turned-game room is the place to be for fun with a pool table, foosball table and gaming center. Upstairs in the loft area, it’s a movie-lovers dream with another flat-screen TV and several movie theater chairs. White cabinets contrast nicely with black subway tile in the gourmet kitchen. Cook up a storm with stainless matte appliances and tons of prep space on the solid surface counters. Choose to dine at the formal eight-person dining table or have a more casual meal at the seven-person table just off the kitchen. Need even more room? The kitchen bar seats four more. Warm wood accents and neutral color scheme give the main-lever first bedroom an inviting vibe. Guests will enjoy a queen bed and en-suite bathroom with double sinks and walk-in shower. Sleep like a baby in the second bedroom’s platform king bed and pamper yourself in the luxurious en-suite bathroom with double sinks, separate shower and soaking tub. Spend the night with Mickey in the third bedroom with two twin beds and en-suite bathroom. The fourth bedroom is clean and crisp with posh white bedding and furniture, including full bed. May the Force be with you in the fifth bedroom with full bed, which is connected to the sixth bedroom by a jack-and-jill bathroom. The sixth bedroom also has a full bed. Whether it’s the location, the amenities, or the style – you can’t go wrong with stay at Champions Gate Resort! You will be staying less than 20 minutes from Universal Studios, Disney World and other Orlando theme parks. As part of the ChampionsGate community, numerous restaurants, grocery store, drug stores, and other retailers are close by and easily accessible.- 12
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$171/night -
Tropical Condo W/Balcony Near I-Drive, Universal, Heated Pool, BBQ
Orlando
Step into classic Florida with this spaciously elegant 3-bed, 2-bath condo in gorgeous upscale Vista Cay, only minutes away from the heart of Orlando’s entertainment! The common room features an extra-large sectional with a built-in chaise lounge, addition visitor seating, glass coffee table, wall-mounted flat-screen, and a deluxe window that allows for the Florida sunshine to make a special guest appearance. The dining area showcases elegant white chandelier and a voluminous banqueting table prepared for a party of six. Whether you’re entertaining or simply looking to prepare a special meal for the family, you won’t be able to get enough of this kitchen, highlighting granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, luminous pendant lighting, and endless storage within an array of cabinets. In the sitting room you will find tasteful island-inspired artwork and a cozy sofa beautifully framed by two matching end tables with ornate lamps atop. Bedroom 1 features 2 full size beds with tufted headboards and plenty of room to unpack and make yourself at home. Bedroom 2 showcases a king size bed, two matching modern nightstands, and calming color palate to put you in a state of ultimate tranquility, Bedroom 3 proudly boasts a king size bed with an elegant headboard, a stylish ottoman, quintessential paddle fan, and its very own private en suite with a commodious double vanity, and shower with separate tub. Your vacation should be easy and carefree, that is why in addition to your living quarters, you will find a washer and dryer stored in the laundry room for your ultimate convenience. Vista Cay Resort offers a 2.5 mile walking trail around Lake Cay which is located directly behind this unit offering easy access for your early morning jog and a relaxing walk at sunset! Vista Cay Resort is right next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 15 minutes away from all major theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. If you want to experience a Florida in a whole new way, welcome yourself into Vista Cay!- 10
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$135/night -
Close to Universal, Disney, I-Drive and OCCC!
Orlando
Conveniently located just 10 minutes from Universal Studios, this spacious townhouse boasts three elegant bedrooms, each featuring its own private bathroom. Set in Vista Cay, a beautiful gated lakefront community, this home offers an array of resort-style amenities, including a heated pool, hot tub, game room, gym, basketball and tennis courts, and a playground. With a contemporary design and a modern atmosphere, this is the ultimate Orlando destination. Inside, you'll find brand new flooring throughout (no carpets) and amazing memory foam mattresses for a restful night's sleep. The living room is equipped with a generous 75-inch smart TV, and each bedroom is furnished with its own Roku TV. The suite configurations include a king bed in Bedroom 1 (ground floor) with a private bathroom, Bedroom 2 with two full size beds and a private bathroom, and Bedroom 3 with two queen size beds and a private bathroom. The living room also offers a queen sofa bed for additional guests. Stay connected with free high-speed internet, and take advantage of complimentary parking and access to resort amenities. The kitchen is fully equipped for your culinary needs, and a washer and dryer are available for your convenience. This luxury 3-story townhouse ensures that each bedroom is a suite with its own private bathroom, providing ample space for all guests. The second floor hosts the living room, dining area, and a modern kitchen, while the first floor features the main entrance and a king suite with a private bathroom. You'll have a private driveway and access to a large parking lot for additional vehicles. Enjoy a stress-free stay in the heart of Orlando, just minutes from Universal Studios.- 10
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- 3.5
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$135/night