At the close of our January trip, N and I were able to enjoy another super cool Epcot festival. The festival, titled the Epcot International Festival of the Arts ran from January 12 – February 19. Like our experience at the Flower and Garden festival described here, this was our first time enjoying this festival.
As with all special events at the Disney parks a special map was printed for the festival. It identified the location of all of the booths, artist locations, special food offerings, and special event activities. There was also a cool Festival Passport identifying all of the special events with a stamping option to keep track of the ones visited.
There were special touches all over Epcot. There was special lighting and design by the entrance and throughout the park. Special photo spots were sprinkled around the park. And limited time special souvenirs commemorating the festival where everywhere.
As we walked around the world, we saw tons of booths, each displaying different fun Disney themed art. There were so many different art forms, from watercolors to photographs to paint on canvas to crystal. There were so many beautiful, fun and unique pieces that N and I were hard pressed not to buy everything that we fell in love with (way too many to count).
At certain locations, along with the art, was the artist. They were ready and willing to meet with guests. Many were happy to discuss their art and inspirations. And all were willing to sign the art specially for the guest who bought it. It added a really special and fun touch.
As with all Epcot festivals, special booths were set up around the world where unique food and drink options were offered. Each booth had a menu set up outside listing the special festival specific items for sale. As Kosher eaters, we were sadly unable to partake but the food options looked decadent and the scents were amazing.
The Odyssey Center was set up with special art classes for the festival. They also offered special tickets to the ongoing concert which was playing Newsies with the Broadway stars the night N and I were there. There was also an awesome perk for Annual Passholders, a gorgeous artistic print of Belle. N and I were thrilled to be able to get it as Belle is a favorite of both of us.
When we returned during the day, there was this super cool living art display. The brass for Land, the gold for Imagination and the silver for Space. They were really excellent, fully covered in body paint, without moving a muscle for minutes at a time. Every now and then, someone would approach for a picture and they would move in a smooth and steady fashion that was surprising, amusing and very impressive.
