As fall approaches, Walt Disney World bursts with excitement, from Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival.
However, just outside EPCOT, there’s a lesser-known culinary gem: the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, this festival offers an immersive food experience that many Disney fans may not yet know about.
A Milestone Celebration
The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic will take place on Friday, November 15, and Saturday, November 16, 2024. This year, the event boasts its longest hours yet, running from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Attendees will be treated to a record-setting 45 dishes and over 170 beverages from 85 booths located between the Swan and Dolphin hotels, extending down to the pool area.
Greg Sherman, Director of Food and Beverage at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, shares, “It’s an honor to host this event for 15 years. This milestone reflects our commitment to culinary excellence as a core part of our guest experience.”
Read More : Uncrustables Introduces New Flavor In a Decade: Peanut Butter & Raspberry Spread
All-Inclusive Food And Beverage Experience
What sets this food festival apart is its all-inclusive nature. Guests can indulge in food and beverages without worrying about extra costs or tickets for each item. The variety is expansive, showcasing the talents of on-site restaurants and chefs, alongside themed areas offering regional and international cuisine.
Guests will explore culinary zones like a mini Chinatown and a dedicated Florida area featuring locally sourced ingredients. “We aim to surprise and delight our guests with innovative food and beverage offerings,” says Sherman.
A Two-Night Culinary Journey
With different menus on Friday and Saturday, attending both nights ensures a full culinary experience. Friday’s offerings include specialties like Smokin’ D’s BBQ hand-crafted smoked bacon with braised greens and harissa spiced lamb sausage.
Meanwhile, Saturday introduces fresh delights such as a Reuben sandwich with house-cured cabbage and a Korean “No Mayo” Salad with kimchi and cashews.
Several well-loved restaurants will serve their signature dishes both nights. Shula’s Steak House offers Roasted Linz Heritage Black Angus Beef Tenderloin, while Todd English’s Bluezoo presents Roasted Sablefish with black garlic miso butter.
Rosa Mexicano will tempt guests with tempura-fried cauliflower tacos and its signature guacamole.
Read More : Amy’s Kitchen Launches New Line Of Wholesome Frozen Breakfast Foods
Themed Food Areas And Culinary Highlights
The festival’s four themed food areas will have consistent menus on both nights. For The Love of Florida celebrates local flavors with dishes like Grilled Florida Oysters and Seminole Pumpkin Fry Bread.
The Beer Garden offers classic pub food such as hot buffalo wings and miso butter-tossed Brussels sprouts. Carnival Corner brings nostalgic treats like corn dog bites and chipotle macaroni and cheese.
Dessert lovers can head to the Pastry section for decadent sweets, including Caramel Banana Creme Brûlée and Chocolate Blackberry Choux Puff.
A Global Drink Selection
In addition to the food, the festival showcases more than 170 beverages from around the globe. Guests can sip wines from regions like Argentina, California, and Spain, or try craft beers at the Beer Garden. A must-visit for drink enthusiasts is the Japan booth, which serves sake.
Interactive Seminars For Food Lovers
The festival offers educational seminars for those who want to deepen their knowledge of food and beverages. For $85 per person, attendees can join interactive classes such as “Beer Here!” which explores Florida’s craft beer scene, or “Salud! A Journey Through Spain,” highlighting the intricacies of Spanish wines.
The fan-favorite “Craft Cocktails” seminar teaches participants the art of making perfect cocktails with top-tier ingredients.
Where To Stay?
For a seamless experience, consider staying at one of the hotels in the Swan and Dolphin complex: Disney’s Swan, Dolphin, or Swan Reserve. These properties offer prime access to the festival and are part of the Marriott Bonvoy program, allowing guests to enjoy loyalty perks.
Other nearby Disney-owned options include Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. For a more budget-friendly choice, Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and Disney’s Coronado Springs are great alternatives, though transportation to the festival will need to be arranged.
How To Get Tickets?
Tickets for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic are available online. A single-night ticket costs $195, while a bundle for both nights is priced at $331.50, offering a 15% discount.
Whether you attend one or both nights, this event promises an unforgettable evening filled with culinary magic.
With all food and drink included in the ticket price, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is an excellent way to enjoy a sophisticated yet fun night of dining at Disney World.