Epcot’s Taste of Food & Wine Festival: A Kid‑Friendly Guide During COVID‑19
With Walt Disney World’s reopening amid the pandemic, guests were greeted on July 15 with the inaugural day of the hybrid Taste of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The event combines the floral artistry of the Flower & Garden Festival with the culinary delights of the Food & Wine Festival, offering families the best of both spring and fall traditions in one celebration.
The festival, now Epcot’s longest‑running event, began July 15 and will continue into late fall. Though its layout has evolved, families still enjoy a lineup of kid‑friendly food stalls and an engaging scavenger hunt.
- Related: Disney Springs During COVID‑19: What to Expect
Top 5 Kid‑Friendly Foods at the Taste of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
If your kids love trying new foods, the festival offers a mix of fresh and familiar dishes that are sure to delight young palates. After sampling across World Showcase, here are the five items that stood out.
- Mini Street Corn Funnel Cake – Funnel Cake Stand (near The American Adventure)
A playful twist on the classic funnel cake, this version incorporates Mexican street corn (elote) flavors. The sweet batter is topped with roasted corn, cotija cheese, cumin crema, and a dusting of paprika. - Pão de Queijo – Brazil Marketplace
The Brazilian cheese bread is a perennial favorite. Warm, pillowy rolls stuffed with molten cheese offer a comforting bite that kids adore. - Canadian Cheddar & Bacon Soup – Canada Marketplace
Identical to the soup served in the Canada pavilion’s Le Cellier, this festival version comes with a pretzel roll for dipping—no reservation needed. - Liquid Nitro Cake Pop with Twix Bars – Desserts & Champagne Marketplace
Located between the United Kingdom and Canada pavilions, this dessert station creates a show‑stopper. Each cake pop is dipped in chocolate and immediately plunged into liquid nitrogen, emerging steaming and ready to share. - Gourmet Mac & Cheese – Mac & Cheese Marketplace
A dedicated booth lets kids choose from four macaroni‑and‑cheese varieties. The most family‑friendly option is topped with Boursin garlic and fine‑herb cheese plus panko breadcrumbs.
Kidcot Is Still Available – but Updated
Kidcot remains an engaging activity for children, allowing them to interact with cultural ambassadors and complete simple tasks in each World Showcase pavilion. The updated format consolidates all materials into a single zip‑lock bag, so families can pick up one bag at any pavilion and carry it around for the entire walk.
Due to current restrictions, cultural representatives are limited and may be absent in some countries. Italy, Mexico, and France are among the pavilions that still host ambassadors, so consider stopping there if you want your child to meet a live guest.
Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt
Disney’s signature “Ratatouille” character turns World Showcase into a playground with this interactive scavenger hunt. Pick up a map at one of the following locations: Pin Traders Camera Center (front of the park), Port of Entry (World Showcase entrance), or World Traveler (International Gateway). While strolling, look for Remy in each pavilion, collect the corresponding sticker, and complete the map to redeem a prize. The map costs $7, covering the reward and a fun family activity.
Live Music Breaks
Everyday from 1:30 p.m. to 8:10 p.m., the America Gardens Theater hosts the JAMMitors—musicians who turn everyday objects into live music. This lively performance offers a perfect respite from the Florida heat and is especially appealing to younger guests.
FamilyVacationist’s Epcot Touring Tips
- Hydrate Frequently
Epcot remains warm through mid‑October, and mask‑wearing can make hydration harder. Take regular water breaks away from crowds, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and healthy. - Master the MyDisneyExperience App
Download the free app before your trip. It provides real‑time wait times, park hours, and a dedicated section for the Taste of Epcot festival—menus, show schedules, and more. - Avoid Weekends
Weekday visits during festival season significantly reduce crowds, making navigation smoother and wait times shorter.
The Taste of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival offers an unforgettable day for families, even amid pandemic restrictions. By planning ahead and following these practical tips, you’ll enjoy every bite, every activity, and every moment without the need for an additional park pass.
