Epcot Experience, Epcot Forever debut today at Disney World

On the anniversary of Epcot’s opening in 1982, Disney World is debuting two major experiences to the theme park.

The first is Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience. Located in the Odyssey Events Pavilion (between Test Track and the Mexico pavilion), there are a number of exhibits showing off how Epcot will be transformed over the next few years.

There is a 360-degree, floor-to-ceiling screen showing a continuous 12-minute film with vignettes about new experiences coming to the park. And the three-dimensional model that was unveiled at D23 Expo 2019 this summer. (We will be taking a tour later this morning and coming back with photos and video.)

The space uses 30 projectors to bring the experience to life and takes guests on the journey of what’s to come.

The presentation displays archival footage going back well before Epcot opened in 1982, taking guests on a journey to present day and beyond. It showcases new pavilion icons that will integrate into the park, and previews experiences in development.

If you’re looking for the complete rundown of the changes coming, click here.

Guests can have their pictures taken inside four dimensional photo locations specially designed for the Epcot Experience.

The second major experience unveiling tonight is the new “Epcot Forever” nighttime show that replaces Illuminations. The show will bring World Showcase Lagoon to life with fireworks, lighting, lasers, special effects kites, and music from the past 37 years. “Epcot Forever” replaces “Illuminations” and is a placeholder show until the new show “HarmonioUS” debuts.

From “Magic Journeys” and “Tomorrow’s Child” to “Listen to the Land” and “One Little Spark,” “Epcot Forever” features classic Epcot themes produced in fresh new arrangements. 

You will be able to watch the debut of the show tonight, Tuesday, Oct. 1 as the Disney Parks Blog will livestream the event at 8:50 p.m. ET