Unleash Your Inner Artist at EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts 2026

If you love color, creativity, and Disney magic with a side of incredible food, Festival of the Arts 2026 is one EPCOT event you do not want to miss. Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts runs from January 16 through February 23, 2026, transforming the park into a celebration of visual art, live entertainment, and culinary creativity.

This festival is all about blending art you can see, hear, taste, and even participate in. Whether you are a longtime Disney fan or planning your first winter trip to Walt Disney World, Epcot’s Festival of the Arts is the perfect way to slow down, explore World Showcase, and experience EPCOT in a more creative and relaxed way.

Festival of the Arts 2026 Overview

The Festival of the Arts celebrates three main artistic pillars: visual art, performing arts, and culinary arts. Throughout the park, you will find interactive experiences, live performances, art displays, artist booths, specialty food studios, and exclusive merchandise created just for the festival.

This is one of EPCOT’s shortest festivals, which makes planning ahead even more important if this event is on your must do list.

Artistic Highlights of Festival of the Arts 2026

Animation Experience

One of the most popular offerings returns again for Festival of the Arts 2026. The Animation Experience takes place inside America Gardens Theatre and allows guests to learn how to draw a Disney character with guidance from a Disney animator.

Paper and pencil are provided, and the experience is approachable for all skill levels. It is similar in style to the Animation Experience offered at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but with a festival flair. This experience takes place in America Gardens Theatre at 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM daily.

Expression Section Paint By Number Mural

The Expression Section is one of my favorite interactive experiences at Epcot’s Festival of the Arts. Each day from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, guests can help paint a giant mural using a paint-by-number system.

When you arrive, a Cast Member gives you a paintbrush, paint, and a specific numbered section to fill in. Once you finish, you receive a postcard featuring the completed mural as a fun and free souvenir.

You can find the Expression Section along the walkway between World Showcase and the Imagination! Pavilion.

Artful Photo Ops Around EPCOT

Picture time! Artful Photo Ops are immersive installations throughout the park that let you step inside famous works of art or Disney-inspired scenes. These oversized pieces make for some of the most fun and unique photos at EPCOT during the festival.

Disney PhotoPass photographers are usually nearby, making it easy to capture the moment without having to ask a stranger. Locations and themes may vary year to year, but you will typically find them scattered throughout World Showcase and near World Celebration.

Here are a few of the artful photo ops you can find at the festival in 2026:

• International Gateway: Luncheon of the Boating Party – Pierre-Auguste Renoir
• The American Adventure Pavilion: Washington Crossing the Delaware – Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze
• Between Italy Pavilion and Germany Pavilion: Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci
• Between Italy Pavilion and Germany Pavilion: The Scream – Edvard Munch
• Bridge to World Showcase: Tea time with penguins scene from Mary Poppins
• Bridge to World Showcase: Forest Scene from Sleeping Beauty
• Bridge to World Showcase: A Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game photo op, featuring a scene from Fabled – one of the most recent Disney Lorcana sets

Kids Chalk Art

Families with younger kids should not skip the Kids Chalk Art area. Located in World Celebration near the Imagination! Pavilion, this space gives kids the chance to draw freely using colorful chalk.

It is open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and provides a relaxed break from rides and lines. It is also a great spot to slow down and let kids enjoy the creative side of the festival.

Festival of the Arts Food Studios 2026

One of the biggest reasons guests love Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts is the food. The festival features over 20 Food Studios located throughout World Showcase and nearby festival areas. Each booth focuses on artistic presentation and creative flavor combinations.

Fan favorites often return year after year, alongside new dishes inspired by global cuisines and artistic themes.

Festival of the Arts 2026 Food Studios

• The Artist’s Table – American Adventure Pavilion 
• The Craftsman’s Courtyard – between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion
• Deco Delights – near Port of Entry
• The Deconstructed Dish – in World Discovery
• El Artista Hambriento – Mexico Pavilion 
• Fictional Victuals – near Disney Traders
• Figment’s Inspiration Station – inside the Odyssey Pavilion
• Goshiki – Japan Pavilion
• Gourmet Landscapes – Canada Pavilion
• L’Art de la Cuisine Française – France Pavilion 
• L’Arte di Mangiare – Italy Pavilion
• Opening Bites – near Communicore Hall
• The Painted Panda – China Pavilion
• Pastoral Palate – Germany Pavilion
• Pop Eats – between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion
• Refreshment Outpost – between China and Germany Pavilions
• Swirled Showcase – between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion
• Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina – Morocco Pavilion
• Vibrante & Vívido – between Morocco Pavilion and France Pavilion

Menus can change year to year, so checking booth menus in the app before arriving can help you prioritize what you want to try.

Festival of the Arts 2026 Offerings at Year-Round Locations

• Connections Eatery
• Funnel Cake
• Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company
• Norway Beer Cart
• Sunshine Seasons

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine

The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine is a fun food challenge included with the festival. Pick up a Festival Passport and look for specially marked menu items across select Food Studios.

Once you purchase at least five of the seven participating items and collect the matching stamps, you can return your completed passport to Deco Delights and receive a festival treat.

This is a great way to sample a variety of dishes while also earning a fun edible reward.

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Locations & Menu Items

• Opening Bites – Enchanted Rose
• Deco Delights – Sparkling Spectacle Gâteau – NEW
• Swirled Showcase – Liquid Nitrogen Minnie Cake Pop – NEW
• Gourmet Landscapes – Citrus-Braised Beet Tartare
• Vibrante & Vívido – Chorizo and Potato Empanada
• Figment’s Inspiration Station – Popcorn, Popcorn Chicken, and Waffles – NEW
• Figment’s Inspiration Station – Color Scheme Cake – NEW
• The Deconstructed Dish – Deconstructed Key Lime Pie – NEW

Festival of the Arts Merchandise

Exclusive merchandise is released each year for Festival of the Arts 2026, and it is especially popular with Figment fans.

From one-of-a-kind artwork that tells a visual story to limited-edition souvenirs that add a touch of exclusivity, the shopping experience is a delightful extension of the artistic celebration. Take your time exploring all of the items, and you’re bound to find the perfect souvenir! 

These items tend to sell out quickly, so shopping earlier in the day gives you the best selection.

Planning a Disney vacation can feel like a full-time job—trust me, I get it! As your travel agent, I’ll take care of the details, so you can focus on the fun stuff (like deciding which snack to try first). Let’s plan that vacation you’ve been dreaming of!

Artwork and Artists at the Festival of the Arts 2026

Throughout World Showcase, artist booths turn EPCOT into an open air gallery. Guests can browse original artwork, prints, and collectibles while chatting directly with the artists.

Many artists offer signings and are happy to talk about their creative process. Schedules vary, so if there is a specific artist you love, it is worth checking the festival artist schedule in advance.

Chalk Art Galleries

Chalk art galleries are another standout feature of Epcot’s Festival of the Arts. Talented artists create large-scale chalk murals directly on the pavement, transforming walkways into colorful masterpieces.

One of the best parts is watching the art come together throughout the day. These pieces are temporary, which makes seeing them in person feel even more special.

Meet the Artists

The World Showcase becomes an art gallery featuring the work of talented Disney artists. You will have a chance to meet various artists who will be participating in the festival. They will showcase their work, discuss their inspirations, and you can even get a piece signed by them. Some of my favorite artists are Ashley Taylor, Thomas Kinkade, and Jay Ratner.

Make sure to view the schedule if you want to plan your visit around a specific artist.

Live Performances at the Festival of the Arts 2026

Get ready for a lively experience at EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts. As you wander around the World Showcase, you’ll discover live music, acrobatics, and cool performance art. The festival turns the World Showcase into a giant stage where every corner has something exciting happening. EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts is all about bringing art to life.

Disney on Broadway Concert Series

The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is one of the biggest draws of Festival of the Arts 2026. Broadway performers take the stage at America Gardens Theatre to perform songs from beloved Disney musicals.

Most nights feature three showtimes, typically at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM. Seating is first come, first served unless you book a dining package. These concerts are included with your theme park admission, there is not an additional cost.

Disney on Broadway Performances During Festival of the Arts 2026

• Adam Jacobs (Aladdin) and Isabelle McCalla (Aladdin) – January 16, 18, 19, 22, 24, 26, and 27
• Sierra Boggess (The Little Mermaid) and Jelani Remy (The Lion King) – January 17, 20, 21, 23, 25, 28, and 29
• Anastacia McCleskey (Tarzan) and Josh Strickland (Tarzan) – January 30
• Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King) – January 31
• Anastacia McCleskey (Tarzan) and Josh Strickland (Tarzan) – February 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, and 10
• Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King) – February 3, 4, 6, 8, 11, and 12
• Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and NEW – Ainsley Melham (Aladdin) – February 13, 15, 16, and 19
• Susan Egan (Beauty and the Beast) and James Monroe Iglehart (Aladdin) – February 14, 17, 18, 20, and 21
• Grand Finale – Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins), Ainsley Melham (Aladdin), Susan Egan (Beauty and the Beast), James Monroe Iglehart (Aladdin), and Kyra Belle Johnson (Beauty and the Beast North American Tour) – February 22 and 23

Disney on Broadway Dining Packages

Dining packages allow you to enjoy a meal at select EPCOT restaurants and receive guaranteed seating for a specific concert performance that same day. Packages include an entree and dessert or a full buffet or family style meal, depending on the restaurant, plus a non alcoholic beverage.

These packages are a great option if seeing a specific performer is a priority for your trip.

You will receive Disney on Broadway concert seating badges at the restaurant after your meal. The badge will specify the date and showtime you have reserved. Enter the America Gardens Theatre in a separate queue to be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is guaranteed with the dining package.

Once Upon a Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway Exhibit

The Once Upon a Stage exhibit returns to CommuniCore Hall for Festival of the Arts 2026. This exhibit offers a behind-the-scenes look at Disney on Broadway productions, featuring costumes, props, and set pieces from iconic shows like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.

It is a must see for Broadway fans and a great indoor break during the middle of the day.

Figment’s Brush with the Masters

Figment’s Brush with the Masters is a paid scavenger hunt that takes place throughout World Showcase. For a set price, guests receive a map and sticker set and search for Figment hidden within famous works of art displayed around the park.

Once completed, you return your map to receive a keepsake prize. It is a fun activity for kids and Figment fans alike.

Spaceship Earth Nighttime Lights

Seeing Spaceship Earth lit up at night is always magical, but during Festival of the Arts there are special nighttime lighting sequences inspired by Figment and classic Disney music. These shows rotate throughout the evening and are a perfect way to end your festival day.

Ready to keep your trip to Disney stress-free and organized? These free Theme Park Planning Pages are perfect for mapping out your days, keeping track of reservations, and making sure you don’t miss a single magical moment. Download them now!

Get Your Free Guide to EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts 2026

Are you ready to explore the EPCOT Festival of the Arts in 2026? To help you make the most of your visit, you can get a free guide packed with valuable information.

Simply opt-in with your email to receive your downloadable guide. It includes:

• Tips for navigating the festival
• Detailed schedule of events
• Must-try food and drink options
• Information about entertainment and performances

Don’t miss out on the festival’s exciting offerings this year. Sign up today and get your free guide to ensure you have a fantastic time at the EPCOT Festival of the Arts!

Tips for a Magical Festival of the Arts Experience

• Download the My Disney Experience app to view menus, show schedules, and plan your day efficiently.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing plenty of walking to explore all of the Festival offerings.
• Expect larger crowds on weekends and holidays. If you can, try to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
• Many of the food portions are large enough to share, so split a dish with a friend or family member. This also gives you the opportunity to try more without getting too full!
• Take advantage of the PhotoPass photographers throughout the park to capture your Festival memories. Ask the photographer if they have a special Magic Shot available!
• Look for charming chalk drawings of Disney characters around the World Showcase. From Abu to Jiminy Cricket, familiar faces are waiting to be discovered. How many can you find?
• If you want to set a budget for your festival spending, the mini Festival gift cards attached to a wristband are the perfect solution. Pick one up when you get to EPCOT and load it with the amount you want to spend for the day. Hands-free and cash-free!

Festival of the Arts 2026 FAQs

• What are the featured menu items for the EPCOT Festival of the Arts in 2026?
  • The festival offers a variety of delicious dishes that celebrate creativity and art. You can expect unique food presentations that include seasonal flavors. Special menu items often highlight both sweet and savory options.
• What exclusive merchandise is available at the 2026 Festival of the Arts?
  • Merchandise at the festival includes artwork, apparel, and functional items that showcase the event’s theme. Look for items featuring popular Disney characters and artistic designs. Exclusive pins and collectibles are also available for fans and visitors.
• How can I participate in the Festival of the Arts 2026 scavenger hunt?
  • You can purchase a scavenger hunt map at participating locations. Make your way around the park looking for Figment, add the corresponding sticker to your map, and turn it in to earn a special reward at the end of the hunt.
• Where can I purchase tickets for Festival of the Arts 2026?
  • You do not need a special ticket to experience the Festival of the Arts. You only need to purchase EPCOT park admission for your visit.
• Who are the performers scheduled for the Broadway concert series during the 2026 Festival of the Arts?
  • The Broadway concert series features talented performers who bring popular musical numbers to life. Each night highlights a different show and its songs. You can check the festival’s schedule for specific artists and performance times.

Final Thoughts

With its creative energy, interactive experiences, incredible food, and unforgettable performances, Festival of the Arts 2026 is one of EPCOT’s most unique and inspiring events. If you love slowing down, exploring World Showcase, and experiencing Disney in a more artistic way, this festival deserves a spot on your winter travel plans.