2016 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival: September 14 - November 14, 2016

[ellie05]

What's sad is that I am not even surprised - last year's booking I think was the worst (in my opinion) in recent memory. Complete trainwreck. My expectation for this year is that it not be as bad as last year. I just can't believe my expectations have dropped so low.

For an event that is done yearly It really seem unacceptable what a mess it is. How hard would it be to list the events instead of calling "special events". The fact that in my pass holder July e news says they 18th and they have not even send a follow up email correcting the date is ridiculous.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

I'm expecting the worst year yet. So far...,

They have released 2 days for AP/DVC/TIW
Are doing Chase on the same day as all other pre booking
Have provided practically no detail on sampler package and given no clue as to status of Permium Package


It's going to be crazy.

I'm mentally preparing...

Regarding the sampler, it said in the TiW preview event material that it would be "available for purchase at select merchandise locations throughout Epcot." Who knows, but gave me the impression those didn't have to be booked in advance. Again, who knows what's factual.

 

[crazy4wdw]

I meant theming as far as art work. Thx

Most of the time the artwork and/or designs for the Festival are reflected in the merchandise. Epcot's entrance plaza had relativity the same designs for both 2014 and 2015 with just a slight change to it in 2015. I hope there is something new for this year!!

 

[YodasMom]

Ugh!!! So, for now, it appears that AP, DVC, TiW, Chase Visa, etc members won't be able to book most of the special events before the public day on Thursday? I know we know nothing for sure, as usual........ I will be heading for the airport early this Thursday morning and when registration opens at 7 AM Eastern (6 AM my time), I will be on a shuttle to the airport. Even if I do get through to an operator, I will be in public when I need to provide my credit card number to register (or worse, going through TSA)! There are some special events that I really want this time that probably won't be included with the regular demos, etc. Always before, I've been able to schedule my special events on the Tuesday or Wednesday before the public registration open. So disappointing!

 

[OrangeCountyCommuter]

I'm mentally preparing...

Regarding the sampler, it said in the TiW preview event material that it would be "available for purchase at select merchandise locations throughout Epcot." Who knows, but gave me the impression those didn't have to be booked in advance. Again, who knows what's factual.

The problem is if they don't give out good detailed information the phones wi be tied up with people trying to book things that can't be booked.

As for fixing the system from Disney's point of view why should they? Like everyone on here I'll be calling to book as soon as they let me

 

[Kteacher]

So now I'm confused- the early booking on the 19th won't include PFTS?

 

[ellie05]

So now I'm confused- the early booking on the 19th won't include PFTS?

We still don't know exactly what "special events" will be open the 19th. I called Disney dinning and according to two different CM's only demos and seminars will be open the 19th. We know CMs don't always give out reliable information, but according to them that is the information they got.

 

[sunshinecruise]

Ugh, we can go anytime in Oct. but it depends on what I can book. I have a certain order that I want to book (Trying to get Trader Sam's). Then depending on what week I can get Trader Sam's we want to book the French Family Tradition. If I can book FFT on Tuesday but I can't book Trader Sam's until Thursday that is going to mess up my planning!
How hard would it be to tell us what we can book when?
Why do I want to give all of my money to Disney?

 

[Pixie Dust ✨]

So now I'm confused- the early booking on the 19th won't include PFTS?

It should - but for Chase only.

 

[Kteacher]

Thanks- I have the Disney Visa. This trip we're really only looking at WVL for PFTS, so that's the only thing I'm looking to book on the 19th.

 

[randumb0]

Is it important to call at 7 am? I've always been anle to book the event that I want and I didnt call at 7 am. Maybe I am missing something

 

[FeralCatRogue]

It depends on the event, some are very small seatings. Or their preferred seating is very limited. Also, you may be told things are booked when its just not in system yet. I had that happen last year attempting to book Andrew Zimmern.

 

[Pixie Dust ✨]

I called today to make sure it wasn't AP booking & it wasn't. I talked to three different CMs & got the same info, so it might actually be correct.

Tomorrow:
7 AM Chase (events must be paid for with Chase Disney Visa)
9 AM AP, TiW, DVC

Seminars, demonstrations, select (unknown) special events.

 

[sunshinecruise]

I called today to make sure it wasn't AP booking & it wasn't. I talked to three different CMs & got the same info, so it might actually be correct.

Tomorrow:
7 AM Chase (events must be paid for with Chase Disney Visa)
9 AM AP, TiW, DVC

Seminars, demonstrations, select (unknown) special events.

Thank you Pixie Dust! I will be calling at 7:00 tomorrow.

 

[cdtommie]

Have any of you been to the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic? We are considering it. I wonder what happens if it rains?

Did this a couple years ago and had a great time, even had the cast of Jersey Boys performing. We are definitely doing this event again this year, strongly recommended.

 

[Pixie Dust ✨]

Thank you Pixie Dust! I will be calling at 7:00 tomorrow.

Good luck!

 

[lolakat]

I called today to make sure it wasn't AP booking & it wasn't. I talked to three different CMs & got the same info, so it might actually be correct.

Tomorrow:
7 AM Chase (events must be paid for with Chase Disney Visa)
9 AM AP, TiW, DVC

Seminars, demonstrations, select (unknown) special events.

I have an AP and TiW. How do you prove that on the phone when booking? Is there some number they will ask for to confirm?

 

[tink1957]

I hope Trader Sam's is one of the special events. It's only available on our last day and this would be a great way to end our trip. I have a feeling that it will sell out quickly.

 

[ellie05]

I am assuming they will still give the AP discount if you call at 8 as long as you pay with the Disney visa. Tomorrow is going to be a mess the wait time for those calling at 9 is going to be very long.

 

[ellie05]

I hope Trader Sam's is one of the special events. It's only available on our last day and this would be a great way to end our trip. I have a feeling that it will sell out quickly.

Me too! But I don't think resort events have been included in the early bookings in the past.