6 Must-Do Kids Activities at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Discover a world where creativity and imagination come to life at the Epcot Festival of the Arts. This annual celebration showcases a vibrant tapestry of art, music, culinary delights, and entertainment for guests of all ages to enjoy. In this article, we will explore the array of kid-friendly activities and experiences available at the festival, from interactive art stations to character meet-and-greets, providing families with valuable insights on how to make the most of their visit and create lasting memories with their children.

Epcot’s family-friendly festival is undoubtedly the most enjoyable event the park has to offer. With a plethora of activities, sights, flavors, and experiences to indulge in, visitors can easily spend 2-3 days immersing themselves in the festivities. The greatest perk is that the majority of attractions are included with your park admission, making it a cost-effective and unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Without further a due, here are our top 6 hands-on activities for kids at Festival of the Arts!

Expression Station: A Paint by Numbers Mural

Do you remember the enjoyable Paint-By-Number kits you used to have as a child? Imagine that, but on a much, much larger scale!

Choose a paint color and a brush, then fill in the corresponding spot on this massive mural. Once you have finished, you will receive a bookmark featuring the design you helped create. There are various designs available, with at least one showcasing my favorite purple dragon. Each mural typically takes around 2 days to complete, and it is truly exciting to witness the progress throughout the day.

Kids Chalk Art

As you stroll along the bridge to World Showcase, you’ll be greeted by a display of stunning chalk art created by talented artists.

Do you have a budding artist in your family? This is their opportunity to showcase their skills! After marveling at the amazing chalk art by festival artists, your children can unleash their creativity and create their own masterpiece at the Kids’ Chalk Art area.

Artful Photo Ops

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a part of a famous work of art? Well, now you can!

Located throughout World Showcase, you will discover life-size replicas of well-known paintings. The main characters have been removed and replaced with YOU! So gather your family and strike a pose. Also, be on the lookout for Disney PhotoPass Photographers at these locations as well.

Figment’s Brush with the Masters

Embark on an exciting adventure to find Figment, who is cleverly hidden in famous works of art at each of the World Showcase Pavilions! To begin your quest, simply pick up a map at select merchandise locations throughout the park (additional cost may apply) and set off on a thrilling hunt around the World.

The exquisite paintings are displayed within each pavilion, so be sure to keep your eyes wide open. Once you have successfully located all of the paintings, return your completed map to receive a special gift as a token of your accomplishment.

This activity is a personal favorite of mine at the Festival of the Arts, especially when enjoying it with children. It also provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the delectable food booths while on the hunt for Figment!

Chalk Full of Character

While exploring the World Showcase Pavilions, be sure to keep a lookout for chalk drawings featuring some of your beloved characters. You may stumble upon Abu in Morocco, Jiminy Cricket in the UK, or Mushu in China. Personally, I adore the Aristocats in France the most! These charming drawings serve as delightful surprises as you wander through the World Showcase. Happy hunting!

Animation Academy

During the day at the America Gardens Theatre, you have the opportunity to learn how to draw a Disney character from a skilled Disney animation artist. They will guide you through each step of the process, transforming even the most inexperienced artist into a professional. This activity is perfect for the whole family to enjoy together!

TPM Festival of the Arts Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to grab a complimentary festival passport at the park entrance before embarking on your day. This handy guide is essential for mapping out your itinerary, as it contains detailed information on all the Food Studios menus, show locations, and activity schedules (some showtimes can also be accessed through the My Disney Experience app).

• For a more relaxed experience, consider planning your visit for Tuesday through Thursday mornings when the crowds are typically lighter. Keep in mind that weekends tend to be busier as locals often frequent the park during that time.

• Share your snacks with your friends and family at the festival! The flavors offered are unique and rich, making it a great opportunity to try a variety of different foods. Some flavors may be too intense to enjoy in a full serving, so it’s best to sample around the world and share with your frog squad. This is a fun way to introduce your little ones to new ingredients and teach them about different cultures.

• All of the artist tents and Food Studios are conveniently located by the main path near the lagoon, rather than inside the pavilions. Don’t forget to check out the drink options at the Food Studios as well! Parents can enjoy specialty adult beverages, while the kids can sip on something too.

• One of the highlights of the festival is the Broadway Concert Series. Sit back and relax as you listen to amazing Disney classics and original musical tunes performed by some of Disney’s best Broadway talent. It’s a must-see experience for all festival attendees!

I cannot praise the Epcot International Festival of the Arts enough. In addition to the enjoyable activities and delectable cuisine, the weather during this time of year is absolutely delightful. There is nothing quite like experiencing cool temperatures in Central Florida. If you are unable to attend this year, be sure to make plans for the future.

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts begins January 17, 2025 and runs through February 24, 2025.