Starting August 31st and continuing through November 13th, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is where you have to be. I am not an expert in budgeting by any means, however over the years I have learned that this is what you need to do to really enjoy your time there. I wanted to post some tips that may help those of you who do not have the luxury of enjoying this festival multiple times during these months.
Budget- when we first went we were all about trying everything each food kiosk had including the alcohol drinks. As you can imagine, this was pricy. We have been getting by with about $200 and by sharing plates and drinks.
Game plan- Go online and review the menu that are posted. The costs for food can range anywhere between $3 - $12 and remember these are small portion plates. I am an adventurous foodie, so I look for food from countries that I know I may never be able to try again.
Timing- This is a tough one because this festival is packed. However, it is possible to make your way around the Showcase in a timely fashion and still enjoying the treats. There are a few ways that we found helpful: (a) make your way to the Showcase as soon as it opens; (b) most people who come to Disney have dinner plans, so this would be a perfect time for you to eat your dinner "around the world"; (c) you don't have to eat in order, meaning when the Showcase opens many people will begin right at the entrance. Make your way to the back: France, America, Italy, Morocco, etc.
Music is free- The Summer Concert Series always has a really cool line up. There are lots of people who pay to sit in the amphitheater to reminisce since the line up really hits the old memories. But, instead of paying for those tickets, you can stand on the outside of the theater and clearly hear the music. The American kiosk most of the time has a long line, so this is the perfect time to wait and listen.
However you do it, just make sure you have fun. It's Disney, the most "magical place on Earth!"
