Hi there, and welcome to planDisney! I couldn't be happier that you've stopped by with this great question about your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation! You'll be arriving in just a few short days, and you must be getting so excited!
Though I'm not sure what the World Showcase in
EPCOT looked like during your last visit, I can tell you that the general layout has not changed much in the past few years. While various attractions, dining locations, decor, and other details have been refreshed, you'll find that the overall structure has remained the same. If you think about it as if you have an aerial view of EPCOT, the World Showcase is situated around a lagoon toward the back of the park. To get there from the entrance of the park, you'll pass the large geodesic sphere that houses the Spaceship Earth attraction, and keep going. There are 11 countries currently represented in the World Showcase.
It's important to note that, even though EPCOT typically opens at 9:00 am, many of the shops and dining locations in the World Showcase often open around 11:00 am. Before that time, you'll still find plenty of attractions, Character experiences, talented entertainers, and lots to see and do. I love walking around the World Showcase in the morning because it's quieter and less crowded, allowing for a much better view of the beautiful scenery.
Another crucial detail I'd like to share with you is that you'll be visiting during the
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Throughout the park, you'll find nods to food and beverages inspired by flavors from around the world. There will be kiosks called
Global Marketplaces that sell small plates and unique beverages. Be sure to
check out the must-try items before you arrive, and grab a Festival Passport from the display near the entrance at the front of the park to be sure you don't miss anything. Each night of the festival,
musical performances take place at the America Gardens Theatre, with three showtimes available each night. It appears that The Hooligans, a band with a British rock sound, will be performing during your visit. This is included with your park admission!
While there's so much to do in the World Showcase, don't miss the fun toward the front of the park. I'm partial to The Land pavilion, where you'll find the
Living with the Land attraction and
Soarin' Around the World.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is a new, self-paced, walk-through experience where you'll have the joy of interacting with water as you learn more about the role water plays in our lives.
I hope this is helpful to you as you plan for your day at EPCOT. Please stop by with any other questions you have! I'd be thrilled to help you!
See ya real soon,
Jennifer