Epcot International Festival of the Holidays by Liliane Opsomer

My favorite park to visit during the holidays has always been Epcot, and last year, the park was even more special. 2017 welcomed the International Festival of the Holidays. A total of 15 kiosks will serve up seasonal food and beverage specialties from the World Showcase nations.

The Mexican holiday kiosk has yummy carnitas tacos and the famous horchata margaritas.

The American Holiday Table at the American Pavilion serves roast turkey, complete with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. And don’t miss out on the sweets of the season, such as gingerbread men, chocolate chunk and sugar cookies, hot apple cider, delicious peppermint bark, holiday tree sugar cookies, eggnog, hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps, and eggnog with Buffalo Trace Kentucky bourbon.

Near World Showcase Plaza, the Feast of the Three Kings is a kiosk inspired by the story of Los Reyes Magos. The kiosk will serves food and drinks from the Caribbean. I can’t wait to taste the beef tamale with avocado, the roasted pork with mashed yucca and pickled green bananas, and Three Kings bread.

In France, you must try the Bûche de Noël; in Italy, go for the famous Panettone. The Norway kiosk is home to frozen peppermint trifle.

Storytellers Are the Stars of the International Festival of the Holidays

But what would the holidays be without the wonderful tales from around the world? Storytellers appear in each of the 11 countries’ pavilions throughout the day and are simply amazing. I recommend you visit them all.

In Italy, La Befana, the good witch who brings gifts to children on Epiphany, is one of my favorites.

At the United Kingdom pavilion, Father Christmas tells tales of Christmas past, dating back to 15th century England.

In France, it is the Père Noël who awaits your visit as he unfolds the magic of Christmas with a letter from a child.

At the American pavilion listen to the Dickens Christmas carols performed by the one and only Voices of Liberty.

Santa and Mrs. Claus hold court at the American pavilion daily at 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.

At the Canadian pavilion, the Holiday Voyageurs take guests on a musical journey exploring unique holiday traditions from the various regions of our neighbor to the north.

The Japan pavilion mesmerizes guests with the Daruma vendor, who tells the story of the Daruma doll and the Japanese customs of the New Year. At the China pavilion, witness the Chinese Lion Dance, which brings good fortune during the celebrations of the Chinese Lunar New Year and the Chinese Lantern Festival.

At the Mexico pavilion, mariachi players and dancers invite guests to join a traditional holiday fiesta.

Just like the International Food and Wine Festival, the International Festival of the Holidays is a perfect opportunity to introduce young children to Epcot. Kids will love listening to the storytellers and taking in the sounds, tastes, and smells of the holiday season. Plan ahead and make sure to check the Times Guide for the daily schedule of all events taking place throughout World Showcase.

On the Future World’s Fountain Stage, the holiday show features the group Joyful. The show blends Gospel music and inspirational music.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth features a special holiday ending. Some of the best viewing spots include the area between the two gift shops at the entrance of World Showcase, the bridge between France and the United Kingdom, the front of Italy’s pavilion (when not occupied by private parties), the patio seating at Rose & Crown restaurant, and the terraces of Spice Road Table and La Hacienda de San Angel restaurants.

New Scavenger Hunt for the International Festival of the Holidays

New this year is Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree Scavenger Hunt. Join the two super-excited chipmunks as they collect ornaments for their Christmas tree. For $6.99, plus tax, you can purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise locations at Epcot, including Pin Central, Disney Traders, and World Traveler at International Gateway. As you travel around World Showcase, be on the lookout for Chip and Dale as they gather ornaments from holiday decorations in each World Showcase pavilion. (Price subject to change.)

The Candlelight Processional featuring celebrity narrators such as Neil Patrick Harris, Warwick Davis, and Whoopi Goldberg—accompanied by a huge live choir and full orchestra—is an absolute must. The show takes place three times a day (5 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m.) at the America Gardens Theatre and is included with regular admission. The Candlelight Processional is a most impressive performance that will certainly put you in the holiday spirit.