BAY LAKE, Fla. — When Walt Disney unveiled his ambitious plans for Central Florida, one of the main components was EPCOT -- which stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.
For Disney, EPCOT represented a chance for people to live and work on the cutting edge of technology and innovation.
Read: These shows are returning to Walt Disney World this summer
While his vision for a futuristic city did not take hold, the Epcot that emerged from that dream has become a staple at Walt Disney World.
It is a mix of innovation, technology and international culture.
Read: Disney World resorts back to pre-pandemic employment, executive says
In 1996, the park launched its International Food & Wine Festival, a 30-day event during which the countries represented in the World Showcase feature special dishes and drinks.
The special event originated as a way to boost park attendance during the slower season, bridging the gap between summer vacation and the holidays.
Read: Disney confirms plans to build campus in Lake Nona, relocate 2K jobs here
The special event later expanded to three months long.
“This year we are back to normal and will have almost 30 marketplaces open when we open fully on Oct. 1,” Epcot chef Kevin Downing said. “This will be a culinary journey from around the world.”
©2021 Cox Media Group
