Special Events at the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival require a significant extra cost and advance tickets.

However, these events can be some of the most memorable of your Festival experience.

In 2017, we expect to see the return of popular premium events, like Party for the Senses. There will also be plenty of special lunches and dinners with an emphasis on internatioinal flavors and food and beverage pairings.

Check out the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events Here!

In the past, we’ve enjoyed Wine Pairing in Morocco, Beer and Food Pairing in Italy, and Tequila Pairing in Mexico!

Special Events will be available for booking starting July 20. Some affinity groups may be able to book July 18th. Stay tuned to the DFB Newsletter for details.

Please note: all special events do require separate Epcot admission, in addition to the purchase of a ticket.

We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! And take a look at this special offer to help you get started right away!

Here’s a full list of the events you can enjoy in 2017!

Party for the Senses

Party for the Senses is consistently one of the most popular events taking place during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. This year, the event receives a new focus, and for the first time, all levels of tickets will enjoy guaranteed seating. No more standing around with your plate and glass in your hand all night. Yay!

At Party for the Senses, a special host leads the evening’s festivities as guests eat, drink, and celebrate! In the past, we’ve enjoyed dishes from over 50 tasting stations as premium entertainment will change each night of the event. It’s the best of both worlds and a feast for all of the senses!

The Party is pricey and offered only on select weekend nights, so plan accordingly. To see what this event is like, check out our Party for the Senses review here. We’ll have a new review for you soon!

Where: World ShowPlace Events Pavilion
When: September 23, October 7, October 14, October 21, November 11
Price: $179 to $329 per person

Two of the parties will have extra special themes!

September 23: Party for the Senses Featuring Chefs from Disney Springs
Prepare to be dazzled as these Master Chefs shine! During this one-time event, dine on an incredible array of dishes from the finest eateries in Disney Springs—the dining, shopping and entertainment mecca designed for Walt Disney World Guests and food connoisseurs alike. Featured Disney Springs Chefs will include Chef Masaharu Morimoto from Morimoto Asia, Chef Art Smith from Homecomin’ and Culinary Director Eddie Thomas.

October 21: Party for the Senses Featuring Chefs from Disney Parks
Embark on a flavorful evening while sampling global cuisine with the pros! For one night only, Disney Chefs will gather together to lead Guests on an unforgettable gastronomical journey. Each tasting station will feature dishes that best represent their country, culture and the Disney theme park they call home. It’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

A tiered approach to tickets returns for 2017. 

Wine View Lounge: Epcot admission required. Includes private reserved table in an exclusive area (closest to the stage), early entrance into event, specialty cocktail toast, artisanal cheese station, transportation to and from the Epcot Main Entrance in a “Minnie Van,” and more.

Reserved Seating: Epcot admission required. Includes a reserved table on main floor for just your group.

Party for the Senses General Admission/Guaranteed Seating: Epcot admission required. Check in at WorldShow Place Events pavilion. Seating is guaranteed; however, there may be obstructed view of the stage and you will be seated with other guests.

Cheese Seminars

A great way to learn about cheese from the experts! We’ve enjoyed tasting cheese and beverage pairings, as experts guide us through the process. Read our Cheese Seminar Review here.

Where: Festival Center, Chef’s Showcase
When: Select Saturdays, 9:45AM-11:15AM
Price: $89 per person, plus tax, gratuity included. Epcot Admission Required.

• French Cheeses and Wines
  Hosted by Max McCalman
  September 2, 2017
  Savor a classic assiette de fromageaccompanied by a variety of elegant French wines famous around the world.

• Italian Cheeses and Wines
  Hosted by Tonda Corrente
  September 16, 2017
  Enjoy Italian vini and formaggi pairings that provide a delicious glimpse into the country’s noble yet rustic lifestyle.

• Mediterranean Cheeses and Wines
  Hosted by Erin Hedley
  September 30, 2017
  Taste amazing wines and cheeses deeply rooted in ancient Mediterranean diets as well as culture.

• Old World Cheese Classic Cheese
  Hosted by Max McCalman
  October 7, 2017
  Experience delightfully unique pairings of Europe’s most acclaimed wines and cheeses from various regions across the continent.

• The Great Cheese and Wines of the United States
  Hosted by David Gremmels
  October 14, 2017
  Summon your inner wine and cheese connoisseur with some of the finest selections produced in America.

• Great British Cheeses and Aless
  Hosted by Max McCalman
  October 28, 2017
  Learn how traditional British cheeses and ales pair in perfect harmony, something loyal fans have known for decades.

• Season’s Best Cheeses and Wines
  Hosted by Max McCalman
  November 11, 2017
  Sample autumn’s top seasonal cheeses, both domestic and imported, for a pièce-de-résistance pairing that closes the Festival on a highly delectable note!

What’s Cooking With…

During the presentation, a celebrity culinary guest demonstrated a favorite dish. Afterwards, he or she chats with the event host and answers questions from the audience. It’s a great way to interact with some of your favorite chefs and culinary personalities.

To see a few events that give you an idea about this one, check out our reviews of similar events —  Sweet Sundays with Carla Hall, and Food for Thought with Chef Rick Bayless as well as Food for Thought with Chef Norman Van Aken.

Where: Festival Center, Chef’s Showcase
When: Select Fridays and Sundays throughout the Festival
Price: $129 per person, plus tax, gratuity included. Epcot admission required.

• September 3 – Shaun O’Neale
• September 10 – Alex Guarnaschelli
• September 15 – Stuart O’Keeffe
• September 17 – Jet Tila
• September 22 – Art Smith
• September 29 – Graham Elliot
• October 6 – Jamie Deen
• October 8 – Geoffrey Zakarian
• October 15 – Bryan Voltaggio
• October 20 – Robert Irvine
• October 22 – Robert Irvine
• October 27 – Cat Cora
• October 29 – Cat Cora
• November 3 – Carla Hall
• November 10 – Sarah Fioroni
• November 12 – Buddy Valastro

Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Hands-On Workshops 

Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Hands-On Workshops return in 2017! The daily events offer guests an opportunity to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty! In this hands-on experience,  you learn directly from the pros.

Guests can learn about a myriad of culinary subjects — from decorating cakes, garnishing like a boss, and even mixing up an amazing cocktail!

We look forward to the return of this event. It’s a great bargain compared to many of the more expensive Special Events. Read our Mix It, Make it, Celebrate It! review here.

Where:  Festival Center, Chef’s Showcase
When: Mondays through Thursdays from 12:15 PM to 1:30 PM
Price:  $49 per person. Epcot Admission Required.

Check back for the full schedule soon!

Special Resort Events

Attend a selection of specially designed events that give you a peek into culinary magic, mixology and practical science at Disney Resorts!

Brunch with a Twist

General Event Details

• Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Select Saturdays at 12:00 PM throughout the Festival
• $169 per Guest—plus tax, gratuity included
• Complimentary valet parking provided

Dates: 

• September 16
• October 28

The Secrets of Flavor

General Event Details

• Contemporary Catering Kitchen at Disney’s Contemporary Convention Center
• Select Sundays from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
• $129 per Guest—plus tax, gratuity included

Dates:

• October 1
• October 8
• October 15

Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

Prepare for Zombie encounters of the delicious kind during this idyllic tropical lunch! See our review of the 2016 Event Here!

General Event Details

• Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Select Wednesdays from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM
• $129 per Guest—plus tax, gratuity included

Dates

• September 6
• September 13
• September 20
• September 27

Culinary Adventures with a Master Chef

Hone your culinary skills under the guidance of Disney pros!

General Event Details

• The Convention Center Chef’s Table at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on select dates
• $259 per Guest—plus tax, gratuity included

Dates

• September 2
• September 9
• September 22
• November 1

Culinary Adventures in Signature Dining

Savor your way through a phenomenal dinner while a Chef (sometimes a celebrity Chef!) takes you through every bite, explaining technique, menu choice, and wine pairings. Taking place throughout restaurants across Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts, these special dinners take place everyday, and they sell out fast!

Where: Around Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts
When: Look for more than 20 dinners throughout the festival!
Pricing: Prices are per person plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission required for restaurants within a theme park.

September 2, 2017: Narcoossee’s, 12:00PM, $169

September 5, 2017: Morimoto Asia, 1:00PM, $112.10

September 8, 2017: STK Orlando, 7:30PM, $125

September 12, 2017: Morimoto Asia, 1:00PM, $112.10

September 15, 2017: Tiffins, 6:00PM, $199

September 16, 2017: Artist Point, 11:30AM, $169

September 19, 2017: Morimoto Asia, 1:00PM, $112.10

Please note: The September 28th event at The Wave listed below has been cancelled. 
September 28, 2017: The Wave…of American Flavors, 5:00PM, $169

September 29, 2017: Jiko – The Cooking Place, 6:00PM, $199

October 4, 2017: Contemporary Catering Chef’s Table, 7:00PM, $259

Please note: The October 5th event at California Grill listed below has been cancelled. 
October 5, 2017: California Grill, 7:00PM, $350

October 14, 2017: Morimoto Asia, 1:00PM, $112.10

October 20, 2017: Tiffins, 6:00PM, $199

October 20, 2017: STK Orlando and Wine Bar George, 9:30PM, $75

October 26, 2017: Flying Fish, 6:00PM, $199

October 27, 2017: Contemporary Catering Chef’s Table, 7:00PM, $259

Please note: The November 1st event at Portobello listed below has been cancelled. 
November 1, 2017: Portobello Country Italian Trattoria, 7:30PM, $130

November 2, 2017: Yachtsman Steakhouse, 12:00PM, $229

November 3, 2017: Victoria & Albert’s, 6:30PM, $650

November 10, 2017: Tiffins, 5:00PM, $199

Parisian Breakfast

The Parisian Breakfast has proven to be very popular since its debut in 2013, and we know it will return again this year! The event normally takes place at Les Chefs de France on select Saturday mornings during the Festival.

Guests are served a welcoming Mimosa, and then move on to a spread featuring authentic pastries (baguettes, brioches, croissants), unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and orange juice! Savor the baguettes made from scratch in a 48-hour process at Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie.

Fresh from the oven, enjoy them with butter and Bonne Maman confiture (fruit preserve) to make a French tartine. Check out our Parisian Breakfast Review!

Where: Les Chefs de France, France pavilion
When: Select Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Price: $40 per person. Epcot admission required.

• September 2, 23, 30
• October 7, 14, 21, 28
• November 4

French Family Meal Traditions

We always look forward to some authentic and delicious dining options in the France Pavilion during the Food and Wine Festival. In 2015, French Family Meal Traditions replaced the super popular French Regional Lunches.

During the event, guests were invited to take a trip back to France with chefs from the France Pavilion, as they prepare a favorite dish from their childhood. Each meal was paired with French wine as well. Here’s our recent review of the event!

Where: Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion
When: Select Fridays and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Pricing: $95. Epcot admission required.

• Oct 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28
• Nov 2, 4, 9, 11

The Parisian Afternoon: Sandwiches, Macarons, and Bubbles!

Another Special Event that joined the lineup in recent years is The Parision Afternoon. After exploring France in the morning and for lunch, the logical next step is to enjoy an afternoon there! We discovered snacking, Parisian style, with finger sandwiches, savory mignardises, petit fours, macarons — as well as unlimited mimosas!

See our review of this beautiful event here!

Where: Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion
When: Select Saturdays from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Price: $55 per person. Epcot admission required.

• September 23
• September 30
• October 7
• October 14
• October 21
• October 28
• November 4

The Hibachi Experience

We hope to see this event is back this year! Showcasing cuisine from the Miyazaki Prefecture, the talented Teppan Chefs dazzle guests with their culinary artistry.

Where: Teppan Edo, Japan Pavilion
When: Select Mondays 4:00-6:00PM
Price: $180 per person. Epcot admission required.

• September 18 and 25
• October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
• November 6 and 13

Tokyo Pairing — “Umami” (The Sixth Sense)

Enjoy three style pairings of Wagyu beef, lobster tail, and King Crab legs and sushi prepared using naturally fermented ingredients and sauces. Examples of pairings include Wagyu Sea Urchin, Lobster and King Crab Legs Tempura with salt Koji Cheese Sauce — all paired with Sake and other beverages.

Check out our recent review of the Japan Food and Beverage Pairing for more information.

Where: Tokyo Dining, Japan Pavilion
When: Select Thursdays 4:00-6:00PM
Price: $160 per person. Epcot admission required.

• September 14, 21 and 28
• October 5, 12, 19 and 26
• November 2 and 9

Japanese Craft Beer Tasting

Enjoy this unique sampling featuring six different Japanese style craft beers, paired with six different Japanese “Japanese Pub” foods in an open air setting.

Where: Katsura Garden Deck, Japan Pavilion
When: Select Wednesdays, 1:15-2:15PM
Price: $80 per person. Epcot admission required.

• September 20 and 27
• October 4, 11, 18 and 25
• November 1 and 8

Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing

We enjoyed this Mediterranean Wine and Food Pairing, which took place at the beautiful Spice Road Table, immensely in previous years.

Check out our review of the event here!

Where: Spice Road Table, Morocco Pavilion
When: Select Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00PM
Price: $65. Epcot admission required.

• September 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27
• October 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 and 30
• November 1, 6, 8 and 13

Moroccan Food and Wine Pairing

Discover wines from three different regions and sample them alongside tasting portions of Moroccan cuisine.

Where: Restaurant Marrakesh, Morocco Pavilion
When: Select Tuesdays from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Price: $62 per person. Epcot admission required.

• October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31

Italian Food, Wine Vs. Beer Pairing

Head to Italy in Epcot’s World Showcase for a pairing of food with both wine and beer at Via Napoli. See our review of an Italy Beer and Pizza Tasting here!

Where: Via Napoli, Italy Pavilion
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Price: $88 per person. Epcot admission required

• September 26 and 28
• October 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 and 31
• November 2, 7 and 9

Italian Food and Wine Pairing Luncheon

Held in Tutto Gusto, the Italy Pavilion’s wine bar, this wine pairing event will showcase five courses — two of which will feature white truffle — paired with a variety of regional Italian wines. See our review of the Italy Beer and Pizza Pairing Lunch here!

Where: Tutto Gusto, Italy Pavilion
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 12:00-2:30PM
Price: $99 per person. Epcot admission required

• September 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27
• October 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 and 30
• November 1, 6 and 8

Mexican Tequila Lunch

The Tequila Lunch debuted in 2011 and we’re happy to report that it is returning again 2016. These tastings complement a selected Mexican regional cuisine, and offer the opportunity to learn more about tequila and spirits.

Check out a 2011 Mexico Tequila Lunch guest review here! And our 2012 Mexico Tequila Pairing Lunch review here!

Where: La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico Pavilion
When: Select Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

Price: $85 per person. Epcot admission required

• August 31
• September 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29
• October 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27
• November 1, 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10

Frozen Ever After Dessert Party

Enjoy delicious dessert creations and savory bites inspired by Frozen with VIP Seating for Illuminations as well. Afterward, you’ll head off to the Norway Pavilion for a special opportunity to ride Frozen Ever After!

The buffet offers both sweet and savory options, and may include the following:

• Olaf’s warm double-chocolate s’mores pudding cake
• Elsa’s warm cottage pudding with salted caramel glaze
• Hand-dipped vanilla bean ice cream
• Wandering Oaken’s éclairons
• Hans’ key lime tarts with red glitter glaze
• Living Rock crispy bonbons
• Anna’s blue velvet cupcakes
• Kristoff’s no-sugar-added lemon curd with blueberry
• Sven’s fresh fruits and berries
• Grand Pabbie’s winter-spiced snack mix
• Duke of Weselton’s cheese fondue served with country bread cubes, broccoli and grilled flatbread

Drinks are served as well and will include the following:

• “Melted snow” and other non-alcoholic beverages
• Summertime cocktails, like margaritas and piña coladas
• Beer and wine

Admission for the Frozen Ever After Dessert Party is $79 for adults and $47 for children, ages 3-9. The party is available for select nights throughout the festival.

VIP Experiences

Disney continues its trend of offering VIP and premium experiences to guests, and the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is no exception. Stay tuned to DFB for more information regarding the 2016 experiences.

Here’s a brief rundown of VIP Experiences that were available in 2016.

The Ultimate VIP Tour Experience for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival lasted the full day, and included all of the following:

• Your day begins with the Wonders Retreat at the Festival Center, where you’ll enjoy a celebrity chef hosted brunch from the best seats in the house.
• After a break and a brief time to shop, you’ll return to the VIP Lounge for a hosted beverage demonstration featuring acclaimed wines, spirits and craft beers from around the world.
• Next, you’ll venture to the Norway Pavilion to set sail on the newest attraction in the World Showcase—Frozen Ever After.
• Then, it’s time to explore the Global Marketplaces! Disney Chefs will greet you and introduce you to the endless selection of bites and beverages while you taste 3 of the Festival’s most popular pairings.
• Your next stop will be at the newly reimagined attraction, Soarin’ Around the World.
• Afterwards, a certified Cicerone will lead you through a sampling of the Festival’s signature craft beers. Another delectable chef’s pairing will follow.
• Post pairing, you’ll head to the America Garden Theatre to savor a glass of champagne and then rock out to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series from your priority seats.
• When the concert comes to a close, you’ll have time to explore the Festival on your own.
• If you choose to stay through the end of the day, you can watch IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth from a reserved location.

More details:

• The 7-hour experience begans at 9:00 AM on the select Fridays.
• The cost of The Ultimate Day at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival experience in 2016 was $399 per Guest, plus tax.
• A 15% discount was available for Disney Vacation Club Members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Chase Visa Cardmembers in 2016.
• Theme park admission is required and is not included with the cost of the VIP Tour.

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tasting Sampler was offered in 2016 at two different price points. However, in 2017, only one option is being offered.

• Guests can purchase a package that includes either 8 entitlements for food or beverage of your choice at over 35 Food and Wine Festival Booths, with some exceptions, which will be listed on the credential.
• The package includes a limited release Epcot International Food & Wine Festival pin.
• The Sampler will be available for purchase at Festival Center, Festival Shop at the Germany Pavilion, and the Festival Boutique between the Japan and Morocco Pavilions.
• The package will be available daily August 13-November 13.
• Cost is $65 per person for 8 entitlements.

New in 2016, Guests could also purchase a Commemorative Gift Card. This offer included:

• Commemorative Festival Medallion and Lanyard with carrying sleeve
• Special Gift Card.
• Guests received this when they activate the card with a minimum of $200 at any Festival Merchandise location.

In 2016, the Epcot Food and Wine Premium Package did NOT return. We do not expect to see it in 2017 either, but we will keep you posted!

Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info?

We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog!

Start Your Planning NOW!

News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available! NOTE: This is our preliminary 2017 Guide. This guide will be updated and a final edition will be emailed to you as soon as Disney finalizes the remaining details of the festival,

This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever.

Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World!

Order your 2017 edition today! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! NOTE: This is our preliminary 2017 Guide. This guide will be updated and a final edition will be emailed to you as soon as Disney finalizes the remaining details of the festival.

Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount!

Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST!

Return to the Main 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Page

Return to the Main 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booths and Menus Page