By Tyler Slater
In celebration of the 23rd annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, D23 Gold Members gathered at Walt Disney World Resort to sip and stroll their way through Epcot.
This fan-favorite D23 event Sip & Stroll kicked off with a very special series of experiences in the Spaceship Earth VIP lounge. Attendees were greeted with a Tropical Mimosa (direct from the Shimmering Sips Mimosa Bar) before taking their seats for the fun-filled Candy Sushi demonstration. Thanks to our friends at Adventures by Disney, guests had the chance to transform their favorite sweets into masterful maki- or nigiri-style rolls!
Then, foodies had the chance to sample some of the festival fan-favorites, including Butternut Squash Ravioli and Vegan Nachos. Chef Mike from the Walt Disney World Resort Culinary Team stopped by to tell us about how these items were created for the Festival, and shared some additional inspiration behind other delicious items.
Before leaving the Spaceship Earth VIP Lounge, attendees were surprised by a very special presentation by our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering. Festival Producer John took guests “behind-the-recipes” to look at how the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival originated and how it has continued to bring magic to fans for more than 23 years!
Attendees then had the chance to sip and stroll on their own throughout Epcot, sampling additional items with a $25 Disney Gift Card.
As the sun set on the beautiful day, Sip & Stroll guests enjoyed VIP viewing for a performance by Kenny G, plus a delicious dessert reception at the Italy Pavilion.
Before the VIP viewing for IllumiNations, attendees mingled with other fans and shared their special memories from the day, all the while sampling some last Food & Wine Festival dessert favorites.
