01/19/2026
The reviews are flying for the 2026 Festival of the Arts offerings!!! But let me tell you something- you don’t HAVE to do what everyone else is doing. In fact, you’ll probably have a better time if you don’t ⬇️
1. Feed your kids first- Festival of the Arts has the loftiest, most “culinary” menu of the year. Complex flavors are amazing for your resident foodie, but maybe not for your toddlers. Hit a quick service spot first and then meander through the festival for elevated snack time after.
2. It’s called Festival of the Arts, not Festival of the popcorn bucket. I hereby give you permission to skip this two hour line and spend that time talking to the actual artists selling their art around the park. You may walk away with a piece you love, knowing its story, and the artist. Now that’s a souvenir worth having.
3. Discover your own must-haves. I love watching festival reviews as much as the next person but don’t let someone else’s must do list chain you to lines if it’s not right for your family. There is still so much to be discovered- by you! Half the fun of this festival is finding a truly hidden gem.
4. The paint by number mural is iconic, but if you break down all there is to do at Epcot, do you want to spend 10% (or greater) of your day waiting in line to paint a few squares? Stand back and watch the squares get filled, soak up the ambiance, then move on and discover what’s next.
5. Leave room for spontaneity by channeling the spirit of this festival. Art is not scripted. There is no itinerary, rule book, or must-do’s. Leave room in your day for discovery. Let the music pull you here, let the chalk artist pull you there. This is the best way to guarantee your enjoyment during any hectic, busy Epcot festival- not just this one!
