A cucumber grows in a Mickey-shaped moldI’ve already given you a rundown of some of the things you can find at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. On March 23, I was part of a group that was invited to learn a bit more about the annual event, which is in its 25th year. Here are some of the highlights.
Purple Martins in the nests that are created by Disney conservationWe started by learning about Purple Martins. These fascinating birds migrate to Walt Disney World each year from Brazil, which is a journey of over 3,000 miles. We learned about the eggs, the partnership between the birds and humans, and how Disney Conservation is studying Purple Martins and their habits. If you’re at Epcot before the end of this year’s festival make sure you check them out.
A bloom from Behind the SeedsNext we went on the Behind the Seeds Tour. This took us into the greenhouses, where we learned about the 150 varieties of plants that are grown there and that are served in various spots around Walt Disney World. If you’re looking for a tour but time is tight this is one that you might want to consider. It lasts approximately an hour, and it only costs $25 for adults, $20 for children. You can learn more about Behind the Seeds at 407-WDW-TOUR (407-939-8687).
Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake is the best selling dessert at the festival this yearWe were later treated to information on the history of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. The first year it lasted only 38 days, now it’s up to 90. The most popular dessert this year is Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with Orange Blossom Honey Ice Cream garnished with Fennel Pollen Meringue Kisses at The Honey Bee-stro Hosted by National Honey Board. We also learned about the Disney Conservation Program. There was a presentation on the partnership between Disney and Joffrey’s Coffee, which have teamed up to help bring smarter farming techniques to Alto Mayo, Peru.
Wayne Nelson and Chris Marion from Little River BandThere was a special treat when Wayne Nelson and Chris Marion from Little River Band joined us to chat and to answer questions. Later in the evening we enjoyed the full band performing several of their hits as part of the Garden Rocks concert series.
Little River Band at Garden RocksThe Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival continues daily until May 28. It is included in park admission, although some things might cost extra. Garden Rocks concerts are held Fridays through Sundays, and there are three shows each day. There is no additional cost for the concerts.