The sprinkling of showers did not dampen anyone’s spirits on opening day of 2025 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. With all the topiaries on display and a bounty of new menu items to taste, everyone was excited to celebrate the new seasonal event at Walt Disney World.
This year marks the 30th year of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Each Disney event’s theme is more than just a name designation or time of year. From food to visuals to experiences, the concepts invites guests to turn an experience into memorable moments.
During the Flower and Garden Festival, everyone is ready to embrace the blooms, energy, and spirit of springtime. While the care and craftsmanship behind the stunning topiaries can leave some people speechless, that celebration of the garden is not limited to just a photo op.
After channeling holiday traditions and culinary artistry, the 2025 Epcot Flower and Garden is a moment when the chefs showcase seasonality. Fruits and vegetables are the centerpiece of many dishes. The classic concept of what grows together goes together is a primary theme in many of the menu items.
Given that Spike, the bee, is buzzing all around the theme park, it is fun to find the connection between that pollinator and many of the food and beverage items. It is more than just the plates from the Honey Bee-stro. Sweets, florals, and more have sprinkled their flavor throughout the menu.
A perfect way to start the day is at the CommiCore Hall at the Farmer’s Feast marketplace. While this menu will change throughout the season, Early Bloom’s asparagus with spring peas, pancetta and a poached egg is a must eat. The grilled asparagus is vibrant, and the perfectly poached egg adds a touch of decadence to the dish. Without being heavy, the dish is hearty. More importantly, it hits all the flavor profiles for a perfectly balanced bite.
Continuing on a journey of new dishes, the two new marketplaces, Beach Grub and Yacht Grub are great stops. Some people who have been coming to the Flower and Garden Festival for years might recall a similar seafood boil dish in 2020. It is great to see the Seafood Bake back on the menu. While this version uses white wine versus beer, it is a scrumptious dish that is great to share.
At Yacht Grub’s the chips and dips is a curious new offering from the Disney culinary team. For some guests who want to sit, chat, and let the kids play in the Playalong Bay Presented by Smucker’s Uncrustables, this dish is a must order. It captures the best of what being outside on a sunny day is all about. A refreshing beverage, a simple food, and good conversation always satisfies.
While Canada, France and even Japan has the all-time favorite menu items back, Isla Fresca is a must stop. In addition to the Cirtus Slushy frozen beverage, the Jamaican Jerk Chicken with pigeon peas is a delightful offering. Bursting with flavor, it takes guests on a journey. Without being too spicy, it ignites the palate.
In America’s Magnolia Terrace, the Grilled Gulf Oysters are delicious. The plump, briny oysters stand up to the unctuous Cajun butter. While there are just three oysters, the grilled delights are worth the order. Pairing it with the Wicked Weed Brewing Twist Belgium-Style White Ale, with its citrus hoppiness, it cuts through the richness of the butter. The pairing is quite intriguing for a theme park food festival.
These offerings are just a few of the many food and beverage items available during the 2025 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. From Mexican favorites to the Garden Graze offerings, there are plenty of reasons to visit and visit often during the long run.
The 2025 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival runs now through June 2. More information on park hours, admission and reservations can be found on the Disney Parks website.