The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will return to the Walt Disney World Resort on Wednesday, March 1, continuing through July 5.
One of the hallmarks of the festival each year is the elaborate topiaries and plant displays created by Disney cast members, and this year will be no different. Disney said Epcot's gardens are getting more than 200,000 additional bedding plants for the festival.
At the American Adventure, guests can see a new topiary depicting Princess Tiana from “The Princess and the Frog.” Photo Credit: David Roark, Walt Disney World Resort
Several topiaries will make their debut this year. At the entrance of Epcot, visitors will be greeted by characters from the hit film "Encanto," including main character Mirabel, her sisters Isabela and Luisa and her younger cousin Antonio. And, at the American Adventure in the World Showcase neighborhood of the park, Princess Tiana from "The Princess and the Frog" is newly on display, joined by illuminated fireflies.
Lumiere and Cogsworth from "Beauty and the Beast" will return to the France pavilion with new elements, including lit candles and a working clock, respectively.
This year's festival will be held in spring and summer. As summer approaches, some new displays will replace seasonal springtime displays.
A topiary of Luisa from the film “Encanto.” Photo Credit: David Roark, Walt Disney World Resort
As always, the festival will feature specialty food and beverages available for purchase. There will be 15 Outdoor Kitchens throughout the park featuring more than 50 new items.
The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series also returns this spring. Local bands will play Tuesdays through Thursdays. From Fridays through Mondays, internationally recognized artists will perform; new to the lineup this year are Blue Oyster Cult, Luis Figueroa, Piso 21, Switchfoot, AJ Croce, Casting Crowns and Jason Scheff. Returning to the lineup are Smash Mouth, The Pointer Sisters, Plain White T's and Simple Plan. Dining packages for lunch and dinner are available.