When Is The Best Time To Visit EPCOT | Disney World?

EPCOT is one of the best Disney parks in the world. With its mix of thrilling attractions, cultural experiences, and world-class festivals, it offers something for every type of traveler. But when is the best time to visit EPCOT?

Anytime is the best time in my opinion – but that’s because we really do think it’s the best Disney World park, especially if you want a calmer but still enjoyable Disney experience. 

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As a Florida local, I’ve had the chance to visit EPCOT in every season, and I know firsthand how crowds, weather, and special events can impact your experience. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or hoping to eat and drink your way around the World Showcase, choosing the right time to go is key.

Let’s dive into what you need to know!

Factors to Consider When Planning Your EPCOT Visit

While Florida’s weather plays a role in your decision, there’s so much more to consider when picking the best time to visit EPCOT. Crowd levels, seasonal festivals, and special events can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s what to think about:

• Weather: Florida can be hot and humid throughout the year, but there are cooler months that make walking around EPCOT more comfortable.
• Crowds: Avoiding peak times can mean shorter wait times for rides and a more relaxed experience.
• Festivals: EPCOT is home to four major festivals throughout the year, each bringing unique food, entertainment, and activities. Check out my complete guide to EPCOT festivals to see what each one has to offer.
• Park Hours & Special Events: Some seasons offer extended park hours, special holiday celebrations, and exclusive entertainment that might align with your Disney bucket list.
• Time In The Park: Do you plan to park hop or spend the entire day in Epcot? If you want to park hop to another one of the Disney theme parks, I recommend visiting either Magic Kingdom, because it’s easy to take the monorail between the two parks, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios via walking or taking the boat. Both parks are a great option to see in the same day as Epcot. 
• Age of Your Travel Party: Epcot is great for everyone- from small children to older adults, it’s a really fun park. However, depending on everyone’s interest, you may want to plan a vacation during a different time of year. 
• Where Are You Staying: I highly recommend staying at a Walt Disney World resort to take advantage of the perks that come along with it, like free transportation and early park access. 

To help you decide, let’s break down what to expect at EPCOT throughout the year.

EPCOT Through the Seasons

Winter (December – February)

• Crowds: Moderate to high, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, especially Christmas Day. January and early February tend to be quieter, but it’s important to look into holiday weekends, RunDisney events timing as well as dance or cheer compeitions.
• Weather: Cooler temperatures (50s-70s°F), making it comfortable for walking.
• Special Events:
  • Festival of the Holidays (late November – late December) transforms EPCOT with holiday traditions from around the world, featuring seasonal foods, decor, and the Candlelight Processional.
  • Festival of the Arts (late January – mid-February) showcases culinary creativity, visual arts, and live performances, making it a great time for art lovers and foodies alike.
• Best For: Families who enjoy a festive atmosphere or cooler weather. Avoid the holiday week if crowds aren’t your thing.

Pro Tip: If you are a frequent Disney World visitor, I highly recommend looking into Epcot for New Years Eve. It’s such a fun experience, and it’s included in the cost of your park ticket!

Spring (March – May)

• Crowds: Moderate, except during spring break and Easter. Check for Run Disney event timing before booking your Walt Disney World vacation during this time. 
• Weather: Pleasant temperatures (60s-80s°F), great for exploring.
• Special Events:
  • Flower & Garden Festival (early March – early July) fills EPCOT with stunning topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and garden-themed entertainment.
• Best For: Families who appreciate gorgeous gardens and fresh flavors. Early March and early May are ideal for lighter crowds and mild temperatures.

Summer (June – August)

• Crowds: High due to summer vacations, but afternoons tend to be quieter due to the heat.
• Weather: Hot and humid (70s-90s°F) with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
• Special Events:
  • The Flower & Garden Festival wraps up in early July.
  • EPCOT’s 4th of July fireworks, The Heartbeat of Freedom, are a must-see.
• Best For: Families with school-age children who can’t travel during the school year. Plan early mornings and evenings to avoid the midday heat. It’s also the perfect time for anyone who wants to prioritize time at their Disney resort as it’s easy to pop back to the pool for a few hours on Disney transportation, then head back to the park in the evening. 

Fall (September – November)

• Crowds: Low in September; moderate in October and November.
• Weather: Pleasant temperatures (70s-80s°F) with less rain.
• Special Events:
  • Food & Wine Festival (mid-July – mid-November) brings a global tasting experience with wine pairings, cooking demonstrations, and live concerts.
  • Late November welcomes the return of Festival of the Holidays.
• Best For: Foodies or those looking for lower crowd levels. September is great for low crowds, while late fall captures the start of the holiday magic.

EPCOT Festivals Overview

One of EPCOT’s biggest draws is its lineup of seasonal festivals. No matter when you visit, chances are there will be a festival happening, each offering unique food, entertainment, and activities. Read my full EPCOT festival guide to help you choose the best time to visit!

• Festival of the Arts (January – February): A must for art lovers, this festival celebrates culinary, visual, and performing arts.
• Flower & Garden Festival (March – early July): Features breathtaking topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and garden tours.
• Food & Wine Festival (July – November): A dream for foodies, with small plates, wine tastings, and celebrity chefs.
• Festival of the Holidays (Late November – December): Highlights holiday traditions from around the world with themed foods and the Candlelight Processional.

For more EPCOT tips, check out my other guides on the best restaurants, must-try drinks, and how to make the most of your visit.

Why Visit Epcot Throughout The Year

It’s helpful to consider all of your options before determining when you want to visit Epcot. Read through the top five reasons to visit the park below to be sure you are able to have an idea about everything you can experience within the park. 

Here are five things to love about EPCOT:

1. The World Showcase – Travel around 11 countries in one day, experiencing authentic food, culture, and entertainment from around the globe. It’s like a mini world tour without the jet lag! Whether you start in Mexico or Canada is up to you, but I highly recommend allowing enough time to slowly walk through every country and take it all in. 
2. Exciting Festivals Year-Round – From the Food & Wine Festival to the Festival of the Arts, EPCOT is always celebrating something, bringing exclusive food, entertainment, and activities. I don’t think I could mention the festivals enough! They are so much fun. 
3. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – This innovative storytelling coaster is a thrilling, high-energy ride that’s a must-do for any Marvel or thrill-ride fan. The best ride ever, in my humble opinion. 
4. Incredible Dining Options – Whether it’s a romantic dinner in the France Pavilion, fresh sushi in Japan, or quick bites from seasonal food booths, EPCOT is a foodie’s paradise.
5. Spaceship Earth at Night – The park’s iconic geodesic sphere transforms into a breathtaking display of colors and lights, making for the perfect end to your magical day.

Using Genie+ Multi Pass & Individual Lightning Lanes At EPCOT

To maximize your time at EPCOT, consider using Genie+ (Multi-Pass) and Individual Lightning Lane. These services help you skip long lines for the most popular rides, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. 

I also highly recommend taking advantage of early morning extra magic hours to ride some of the popular rides before the park opens for guests off Disney property. If you are staying at a deluxe resort, you may also get access to the parks for extended evening hours, which is a great way to experience fewer crowds in a Disney World theme park, even on one of the busiest days. 

Top Genie+ Rides at EPCOT:

• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
• Frozen Ever After
• Test Track (closing for refurbishment until Summer 2025, but is sure to be amazing upon it’s return!)
• Soarin’ Around the World

Individual Lightning Lane (Multi-Pass) Rides:

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (this ride is NOT included in Genie+ and must be purchased separately or accessed via the standby line)

Using these tools strategically can help you avoid long waits, especially during peak seasons.

Seasonal Ride Overlays & Changes

Certain EPCOT attractions change throughout the year, bringing unique experiences during special events:

• Living with the Land – Holiday Overlay (November – December): Features festive lights and decorations throughout the greenhouse.
• Spaceship Earth Holiday Show (Festival of the Holidays): A special light show on the EPCOT icon featuring seasonal music.
• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – Holiday Remix (December): A seasonal soundtrack replaces the standard ride music.

Other seasonal entertainment changes include:

• Christmas-themed character outfits in the World Showcase during Festival of the Holidays, also during the colder weather days. I love seeing the princesses in their winter attire- but I don’t love the cold weather otherwise. 
• Special fireworks and projections for New Year’s Eve and the 4th of July.

Best Time To Visit Epcot – My Opinion

Keep in mind that I am not always there to get to all the rides, say hi to every princess or try all of the restaurants, however, I do pay attention to these aspects while visiting. My opinion of the best time of the year will depend on your goals for your vacation. 

• If you want cooler, but not cold, weather – late February, late October or the first two weeks of December will be a good time to visit. 
• If you are planning around school schedules, I would aim for late July. While the summer months are hot, it’s also the perfect time to have pool days between your park days. I usually find that the busiest times for crowds are around school holidays like Presidents Day and Veterans Day, and spring break, and not as much mid-summer because of the heat. Though, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t expect large crowds in the summer. 
• If you are planning an adults-only trip, go during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. I absolutely love this festival and it’s even more fun when you are there with friends! Keep in mind- this is often during hurricane season, so travel insurance will be a must! 
• If you want lower crowds (or as low as possible) early September is a great time to have a full day in the park with nice weather and usually fewer crowds. Personally, I have found that the week after Labor Day is one of the best weeks of the year based on crowds! 
• If you want to focus on resort days and you want to experience everything the water parks, pools, and outdoor experiences have to offer, visit between May and August. 

EPCOT offers an incredible experience no matter when you visit or the age of the people in your party (including kids!). Each season and festival brings something unique, ensuring that your first trip (or your tenth!) will be full of unforgettable memories. By considering your family’s preferences for crowds, weather, and events, you can make the most of your EPCOT adventure.

Do you have a favorite time of year to visit EPCOT? Let me know in the comments!