My family has been celebrating the holidays at Walt Disney World for almost 20 years, and the special tastes of the season are a big part of our tradition. We never miss a visit to the Gingerbread House in the lobby of the Grand Floridian, where we get a bag of the assorted gingerbreads to share as we take in the beautiful decorations and festive atmosphere.
Because we love tasting our way around the World Showcase during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in the fall, we were super excited to see Holidays Around the World Marketplaces added to the Epcot holiday celebration this year. We only live about an hour away from Walt Disney World, so we made a special trip last weekend just to explore those new flavors.
We had a great time strolling the World Showcase and sampling the savory holiday tastes of different regions: the Hoppin' John from Seasonal Southern Delights; the sauerbraten from Germany; and the shredded beef tamales from the Feast of the Three Kings. We also threw in a few sweet treats, including Three Kings Bread from the Feast of the Three Kings and gingerbread ice cream from France. There's a huge selection of seasonal beverages as well, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. It was all delicious.
The marketplaces serve larger portions than the tasting portions at Food & Wine, so we got full before we could try everything on our list. Another trip may be necessary! You will want to pick up a free Holidays Around the World Passport from any of the marketplaces to see all the offerings so that you can plan your sampling and sipping tour.
I'm sure my Disney Parks Moms Panel friends will have more great suggestions from other parts of Walt Disney World, but these are some of the special treats my family recommends. I hope your family enjoys them as well. Happy holidays!
Wilma