Epcot’s 2011 Food and Wine Festival at the Walt Disney World Resort is fast approaching, and Disney has started to release some information about what to expect there this year. The festival this year will have the theme “Passport to a World of Flavors,” and will be held at Epcot from September 30-November 13, 2011.
One of the most popular aspects of the Festival has always been the food kiosks set up around World Showcase, which each feature the cuisine of a different country or region. This year, it has been announced that Hawaii, the Caribbean Islands, and Portugal will be taking their place on the Showcase for the first time. A few of the delicious-sounding new menu items for these new booths have been released as well: Portugal will feature Calamari Salad, Hawaii will offer Kailua Pork Sliders, and the Caribbean Islands kiosk will serve Ropa Vieja.
The Festival will be offering a few new experiences as well. Because of Disney’s relationship with Ocean Spray and their Craisins brand dried cranberries, the Festival will feature cranberry bog displays that will educate guests about the cranberry and the farming methods that are used to harvest them. Additionally, the Fifth Annual Ocean Spray Cranberry recipe contest will be held as part of the Festival.
This year will also bring a new exciting area for guests with the opening of the Odyssey Lounge. Presumably located in the Odyssey Center between Epcot’s Future World and World Showcase, the free lounge will be a sort of “internet cafe” where guests can browse the internet, talk to family and friends, and play games. The lounge will also give guests the opportunity to charge their phones and other electronic devices, as well as enjoy select alcoholic beverages.
Another popular feature of the Festival is their Special Events, which feature traditional events like Party for the Senses and 3D Dessert Discovery, seminars, culinary demonstrations, and more. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, guests will be able to book these special experiences beginning August 16.
