As spring begins, our thoughts are turning to school breaks, getting out in the sun and planting flowers.
You might even be thinking of a trip to Walt Disney World for your spring break. It is a great time to visit because the weather is nice, and flowers are in full bloom.
It is also time for the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, going on through May 31.
It really is a festival for your senses. There are flowers for your eyes to see and nose to smell, food to taste, and concerts for your ears.
From the moment you enter the park, you will notice the flowers and topiaries. There are more than 70 Disney-themed topiaries throughout Epcot such as Elsa, Anna, Pluto, Minnie, Snow White, the Seven Dwarfs and, of course, Mickey.
The rose garden is amazing with every kind of rose known. Don't walk past the butterfly tent, where you can interact with different species of butterflies.
When you enter the International Showcase, the smells of the different foods from all the lands will make your mouth water. Like the Food and Wine Festival in the fall, there is a charge for the food (usually $5).
Some examples from this year's festival include: pulled pork sliders with slaw, home-made falafel, meatball parmigiana, beef tenderloin tips, spicy chicken lettuce wraps, sugar cane shrimp skewer, chile relleno di picadillo, ahi tuna poke sesame ginger, plus many more.
There are also many wines, beers and non-alcoholic drinks to try, for instance, a Watermelon Cucumber Slushy - with gin or without.
Behind-the-scenes experiences, seminars and how-to demonstrations are also part of the experience.
One of my favorite things is the Flower Power Rock Concert Series. It generally includes singers or groups from the '60s or '70s. Over the years, performances have included the Monkees, Herman's Hermits, Paul Revere and the Raiders, and Gary Puckett and the Union Gap. There is a different act each weekend.
On tap this year are such entertainers as Jon Secada; Blood, Sweat and Tears; ELO; Starship; The Guess Who; Herman's Hermits; and the Spinners. There are usually three concerts a day at the American pavilion.
Admission is included in the price of your ticket to Epcot. However, some of the experiences, such as behind-the-scenes events, food and drinks, will cost extra.
I would recommend you take more than one day to enjoy this experience, especially if it's your first time at Disney. Also, a good thing to remember is that the weekends tend to be the most crowded because of the local residents, so my advice is to go during the week.
If you want to explore your Irish roots (whether you are Irish or not), head to Disney Springs and have lunch or dinner at Ragland Road. It is an authentic Irish pub. The atmosphere and food are great. I highly recommend making reservations.
There is so much to do at Walt Disney World besides attractions and characters. There really is something for everyone.
If you have any questions or would like to book a trip, contact me on Facebook at facebook.com/disneydiva58 or visit my website at gypsyspirittravelagency.com.