Hi Kristina! Welcome to planDisney, and what a fantastic time to be visiting
EPCOT. There’s truly nothing like strolling World Showcase during the
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, passport in hand (even if it’s just a mental one), sampling flavors inspired by destinations around the globe. I’m happy to help you sort through how the
Disney Dining Plan fits into all that delicious decision-making.
The Disney Dining Plan can be a great option if you like having your meals mapped out ahead of time, especially during a festival-heavy visit. When it comes to the Food & Wine Festival booths, the good news is that many festival food items do qualify as snack credits. In addition, most non-alcoholic beverages offered at the booths are also eligible to be redeemed using a snack credit. Each eligible item uses one snack credit, making it easy to mix and match bites and sips as you explore World Showcase from Canada all the way to Mexico (or vice versa!)
To confirm whether a specific item qualifies, look for the Disney Dining Plan logo directly on the festival booth menu. You can also ask a Cast Member at the register if you’re unsure (they’re absolute pros at helping Guests navigate festival menus). One helpful tip is to use your snack credits on higher-priced eligible items, which can feel a bit like finding extra value tucked between pavilions. It’s a savvy move, especially when those small plates pack big flavors.
As your trip approaches, I highly recommend keeping an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog. Each year, the Disney Parks Blog features a Foodie Guide for the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, highlighting limited-time dishes and beverages available at the Global Marketplaces. These guides are a wonderful planning tool if you want to preview menus and earmark a few must-try items before you ever set foot on the promenade around World Showcase Lagoon.
If you do decide to add the Disney Dining Plan, don’t forget that it pairs nicely with a
dvance dining reservations. Securing a table-service meal can be a great way to balance festival snacking with a relaxing sit-down experience. Reservations for Disney table-service restaurants open 60 days in advance, and if you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you’ll be able to book dining for your entire stay (up to 10 days) starting on that first day. It’s a helpful advantage, especially during popular festival seasons when restaurants around EPCOT tend to book up quickly.
Kristina, I hope this helps you feel more confident as you plan your EPCOT Food & Wine Festival adventure. Between the global flavors, the festive atmosphere, and the flexibility of the Dining Plan, you’re in for a truly tasty visit. If any more questions pop up as you plan, we’d love to welcome you back to planDisney.
Bon appétit and cheers to a world of flavor!
David