Welcome to this week’s What’s New in Epcot! We’re checking out construction updates, the return of Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! and of course, so much new merchandise!

We have a lot of ground to cover, so let’s get started!

What’s New in Epcot’s Future World

Starting our tour in Future World, construction for the Guardians of the Galaxy Coaster continues to make progress. The thrill ride is scheduled to open in 2021 and we sure wish 2021 would get here faster!

Also in Future World, the construction of the space-themed restaurant is underway. Thankfully, we only have to wait until later this year for it to open!

The new restaurant will be adjacent to the Mission: Space attraction and will feature internationally-inspired cuisine and 1,000 bottles of the world’s finest wines, in addition to a craft beer selection.

What’s New in Epcot’s World Showcase

Making our way to World Showcase, we noticed what we think are new lasers in the lagoon. We’re assuming these may be for the upcoming Epcot Forever fireworks show, which is set to replace IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth this fall.

The Epcot map features a photo of IllumiNations on the cover and the Times Guide reminds guests it is our “last chance” to see the iconic show. The last showing of IllumiNATIONS it set to take place on September 30. We’ll certainly be sad when IllumiNATIONS ends, but we are excited to see what’s in store.

On June 14, Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! returned to Epcot for the summer! Through August 18th, our favorite Guardians Star-Lord and Gamora with their alien band will perform “Awesome Mix” hits 5 times a day in the America Gardens Theatre.

Liberty Inn and Fife & Drum Tavern introduced a variety of galactic eats to enjoy this summer as well. Among them are the Cosmic Cake, Awesome Mix Tart, and the Awesome Mix Plate!

We didn’t love every item we tried, but we especially enjoyed the Awesome Mix Plate. What could go wrong when french fries, pulled pork, and bacon are involved?

Read our full review of the Guardians of the Galaxy – Awesome Mix Live! eats here!

Making our way to the Germany Pavilion, the Bier Cart that is typically along the walkway is missing. They reopened the Pavilion’s Flower and Garden booth (left nameless for now) with the beverages and Jumbo Pretzel that were previously at the cart.

We’ll keep you updated on any further developments with the German Bier Cart!

In the China Pavilion, we were thrilled to discover the Cotton Candy Art from this year’s Flower & Garden Festival is still available! The Artisan Cotton Candy has been moved into the House of Good Fortune Market.

Cast Members said they aren’t sure how long this epic treat will be around, so be sure to grab it when you see it!

Over at Lotus House, we noticed they’re currently featuring a Grilled Chicken and Egg Fried Rice. The dish comes with an egg roll and pickled vegetables for $10.45.

Moving right along to the France Pavilion, construction is progressing for the many changes to the area.

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a trackless dark ride is set to open by 2021, and a new crêperie is also on the way. We’re MORE than ready for these exciting changes to the Pavilion!

Wrapping up our walk around World Showcase, we noted the ongoing construction surrounding the International Gateway. Quite a bit of this construction is due to the upcoming Skyliner transportation system. Once the Skyliner opens this fall, it will drop off and pick up guests from this location.

What’s New in Epcot’s Shops and Stores – New Merch!

You know what it’s time for…NEW MERCH! This was a HUGE week for new merchandise across the parks, and even more so for Epcot.

In case you missed it, the Imagination Pink and Magic Mirror Metallic collections are now available! We found all these beautiful goodies in Mouse Gear, and let’s be real…we wanted to buy it ALL.

I mean…look at those ears!!

That said, if BOWS are more your style… boy, do we have one for you!

The huge, gigantic, JUMBO Minnie Mouse bow is newly available in Epcot’s Mouse Gear as of TODAY! Get more than a glimpse of this eye-catching accessory here!

Joining the new color trend collections at Epcot is the Farewell IllumiNations line. Items among the collection include a Mickey ornament ($27.99), a black t-shirt for adults ($29.99) and a limited-edition MagicBand ($34.99).

We doubt these items will be available for long, so stop by Pin Central for trading pins and Mouse Gear for everything else!

Check out the full line of Farewell IllumiNations merchandise here!

Wow, a whole lot of change is happening at Epcot! Thanks for joining us on our tour around Epcot – stay tuned for even more news about the Disney parks!

What do you think about all the changes coming to Epcot? Let us know in the comments!