Explore the New Spaces in EPCOT

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Fellow Disney fans rejoice! The walls are finally down at EPCOT, marking the end of a multi-year transformation project that resulted in a wide swath of the park being updated and transformed, from the re-imagining of all of Future World into the current neighborhoods to the installation of Remys Ratatouille Adventure in the France pavilion. Now that the walls are finally down around CommuniCore Hall and Plaza, it is time to explore these new park areas!

Related: New Encanto Treats Debut in EPCOT Starting today!

For those unaware, the name CommuniCore is a callback to the opening days of EPCOT, which saw the CommuniCore pavilion as the gateway to EPCOT that focussed on innovation and communication. The pavilion was later rebranded to Innovations!, which is likely the pavilion name many current guests are familiar with.

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CommuniCore Hall is a testament to the endless possibilities that define EPCOT. Designed as a multifunctional space, it can host a variety of events and exhibits, adapting to the seasonal themes of the park’s festivals. Inside, guests can observe culinary magic in action at the show kitchen, where EPCOT’s chefs showcase their skills, creating an interactive experience that draws guests into the culinary process.


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One of the first shows to grace the CommuniCore Plaza Stage is “¡Celebración Encanto!”, a vibrant sing-along that invites families to revel in the music of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto.” During the day, the story of the Family Madrigal unfolds, and as evening sets in, a Latin groove band takes the stage, transforming the atmosphere into a lively musical celebration under the stars.

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Adjacent to the CommuniCore Plaza Stage, the newly introduced quick-service food and beverage destination, “Festival Favorites,” offers a rotating menu that includes popular items from the four annual EPCOT festivals. This summer, the menu features treats inspired by “Encanto,” such as the Cheese-stuffed Arepa with cilantro-lime crema and cotija cheese, and the plant-based Coconut Tres Leches—a vanilla cake soaked in a trio of milks and topped with toasted coconut.

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After enjoying these culinary delights, guests can make their way to the new character greeting location, Mickey & Friends. This vibrant and colorful space is perfect for creating memorable moments with beloved Disney characters. The addition of this greeting area adds a personal touch to the visit, allowing guests to connect with Mickey Mouse and friends in a fresh, fun setting.

Related: Disney World Updates Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Webpage with More Details

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In addition to the interactive and culinary experiences, the aesthetic enhancements at EPCOT are equally impressive. The new mural on the side of CommuniCore Hall adds to the park’s rich tradition of integrating art into its landscape. This vibrant artwork, which illustrates scenes from EPCOT’s past and present, joins other iconic installations such as the scenes from communication history at Spaceship Earth and the colorful mosaic at The Land pavilion.

The transformation of EPCOT is more than just a physical renovation; it is a reimagining of how space can foster community, creativity, and shared experiences. As guests explore these new areas, they are not just walking through a theme park—they are participating in a dynamic cultural exchange that celebrates innovation, imagination, and the joy of coming together.

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Chris is a Pennsylvania native who escaped the cold and relocated to the Orlando area. Our resident Universal expert, Chris has been visiting the Universal Orlando Resort since the 1990s. Chris is a Universal and Walt Disney World Passholder, and can often be found exploring the parks taking in the sites (and finding new things to write about!).
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