World Showcase is often thought of as the duller and more educational side of Disney. While it’s true that there’s a lot to learn here, World Showcase is still made in the Disney mold and features plenty of memorable shows, performers, and attractions. Short wait times, even during the holiday rush, prove that many of the fun features of World Showcase go overlooked, tucked back in their respective countries. However, these 5 features simply can’t be missed!
1. Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Cabalerros
Until the new Frozen ride opens, this is the only ride in World Showcase, yet it’s almost always a walk-on. This boat ride is well worth a trip inside the pyramid that encloses most of the Mexico pavilion. If you like it’s a small world, you may find this attraction similar in many ways. You travel through colorful villages with dancing dolls for several scenes. You’ll also find animated videos featuring the Three Cabalerros to make the ride a little more engaging for younger visitors. If you’re a fan of hidden Mickeys, watch the smoke rising from the volcano on the left wall at the beginning of the ride. It forms the shape of a Mickey periodically.
2. Impressions de France
Image: Disney
Impressions de France is an 18-minute movie in the France pavilion. The widescreen theater offers a 200-degree view of several breathtaking scenes that take you through the landscape of France. Unlike the O Canada and Reflections of China theaters in World Showcase, this one has seating so you can kick back and really relax as you take in this film. Impressions de France is set near the very back of the France pavilion so you won’t see it as you just pass by on the streets. You really need to head deeper into the country.
3. O Canada!
O Canada is another 18-minute movie in World Showcase. This one stand out thanks to its famous narrator – Martin Short. Shown in circle-vision, this movie puts you a 360 degree theater so the images literally surround you throughout. For this reason, it doesn’t make sense to have seating in the theater, but it’s worth noting that you won’t get to sit since you may not be thinking of much else if you’ve travelled the length of World Showcase from Mexico to this point. Start at Canada, however, and you should have plenty of energy left to stand through the film.
Like Impresssions de France, O Canada is set at the back of the country, which probably contributes to the typically small crowds. It’s worth making it back for many reasons, though. The exit area from the film is also where you’ll find KidCot with free children’s activities to help you collect stamps from around the world.
4. Jeweled Dragon Acrobats
Image: Disney
The Jeweled Dragon Acrobats in China put on a stunning performance, but it’s easy to miss if you don’t slow down to look at a times guide. The performance lasts a full 20 minutes and showcases the group’s agility, balance, and outstanding strength. Check the schedule when you’re in the park to see if you can coordinate your stroll with one of their acts.
5. Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro
Image: Disney
This street performance takes place in Italy and lasts for about 15 minutes. It’s set slightly further back in the courtyard so you might pass by if you don’t slow down to wonder what the crowds are looking at. The best way to do it is to check a times guide and make sure you’re there and waiting when they first come out. Sbandieratori Di Sansepolcro is a flag throwing performance, so you’ll see colorful flags waving in elaborate patterns as the four performers dance. The group also includes two drummers and three trumpeters. The colors and costumes bring a renaissance flair to the event. One of the newer shows in Epcot, this is a must-see if you can coordinate your day to include one of the performance times.
Take in the full cultural experience of Epcot’s World Showcase by heading into the countries instead of past them and you’ll find shows, performances, and even rides waiting for you in corners that many people don’t fully explore. Your times guide and map are your best tools for making the most of this park. Don’t forget that Epcot also has many special events that will bulk up this list, such as the Holidays Around the World performances or Food and Wine kiosks and demonstrations.
