2026 Festival of the Arts Dates Announced — Here’s What’s New and Returning at EPCOT

Hey Disney Vacationers! If you’re like me and think EPCOT shines brightest when it celebrates creativity, then mark your calendar — Disney has officially announced the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts dates, and this year looks like the most colorful one yet.

The 2026 Festival of the Arts will run January 16 through February 23, 2026, spanning 39 days filled with food, music, and hands-on art experiences that blend Disney storytelling with pure imagination.

Let’s break down what’s returning, what’s new, and why you’ll want to plan a visit early.

Quick Reference: 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts

2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Dates & Overview

First launched in 2017, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is still the newest of EPCOT’s seasonal festivals — but it’s grown into a fan favorite fast. It’s the one event where you can paint, taste, and perform your way around the park.

From interactive murals to stunning Food Studios and artful entertainment, every corner of EPCOT becomes a living gallery. And yes, Figment is back as your mischievous mascot once again.

Festival Dates:
January 16, 2026 – February 23, 2026
Location: EPCOT, Walt Disney World
Length: 39 days

Whether you’re a foodie, Broadway fan, or collector of Disney art, this festival has something that taps into every type of creative spark.

Disney on Broadway Concert Series Returns

One of the biggest crowd-pleasers every year, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series is returning to the America Gardens Theatre. These live performances feature Broadway stars who’ve performed in Disney musicals such as The Lion King, Frozen, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.

Here’s what to expect:

• New performer duos every two weeks
• Multiple performances daily (included with park admission)
• Dining packages available soon for guaranteed seating

Pro tip: If you want a front-row seat, grab a dining package when they drop. They usually sell out quickly, especially for weekend showtimes.

Culinary Creativity Takes Center Stage

The 2026 Festival will once again feature 20+ Food Studios located around World Showcase. Each booth blends art and taste in a way that’s almost too pretty to eat — almost.

Expect colorful desserts, creative plating, and beverages that could pass for paintings.

Tip: Plan your visit for early afternoon when lines are shortest and lighting is best for photos, especially if you’re after those food shots that make your followers hungry.

Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt

Back by popular demand, Figment’s Brush with the Masters scavenger hunt returns for 2026.

Here’s how it works:

• Purchase a map and sticker set at Creations Shop, Disney Traders, or World Traveler.
• Hunt for Figment hiding inside famous works of art around World Showcase.
• Match stickers to the correct pavilions as you find them.
• Return your completed map for a special keepsake prize.

It’s one of those activities that keeps both kids and adults engaged — part art lesson, part treasure hunt, and all Disney fun.

Returning Favorites for 2026

EPCOT regulars will recognize several creative favorites making their return this year:

• Animation Academy: Learn to draw Disney characters with help from a real Disney artist.
• Expression Section: Paint-by-Number Mural: Add your own brushstroke to a massive community mural.
• Artful Photo Ops: Step into life-sized recreations of famous paintings for the ultimate vacation photos.
• Festival Merchandise: Exclusive prints, pins, and Figment-themed collectibles you won’t find anywhere else.

Every year, the art changes slightly — so even if you’ve been before, you’ll still find something new to admire (and buy).

New for 2026: Disney Lorcana Joins the Festival

This is the headline-grabber for 2026 — Disney Lorcana is officially coming to the EPCOT Festival of the Arts.

According to Walt Disney World:

“The magic of collecting the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game will be coming to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts with exciting activities designed for the whole family showcasing the beautiful artwork on each card.”

If you’re not familiar, Disney Lorcana is a collectible trading card game introduced in 2023. Players take on the role of “Illumineers,” summoning reimagined Disney characters called Glimmers using six magical inks — amber, amethyst, emerald, ruby, sapphire, and steel.

Each ink color represents a different energy and art style, and the illustrations are stunning. During the Festival, you’ll be able to participate in Lorcana-themed activities celebrating that artwork — and yes, it sounds like there might even be exclusive cards or experiences tied to the event.

Tips for Visiting the Festival

A few quick tips from someone who’s been to more than a few of these:

• Go early in the day if you want to avoid long lines at Food Studios.
• Visit mid-week for lower crowds and easier access to Broadway shows.
• Leave space in your suitcase — the art booths feature limited-edition prints that sell fast.

Final Thoughts

Every EPCOT festival has its magic — but the Festival of the Arts feels the most personal. It’s about creativity, color, and connection. You’re not just watching; you’re part of it.

With the 2026 dates set for January 16 through February 23, now’s the time to start planning your visit, booking your EPCOT park day, and deciding which Food Studio will be your first stop.

And if you’re like me, you’ll be keeping an eye on Figment — he always finds a way to steal the show.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!