Spring officially arrives at Walt Disney World with the start of the 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. This year, the event runs from March 4 through June 1 and brings plenty of fresh surprises for fans. Since Easter falls early on April 5, the park is already buzzing with holiday excitement. Visitors can look forward to the return of the popular Eggstravaganza scavenger hunt and a brand new collectible popcorn bucket. These seasonal offerings make the beginning of the festival a must-see for anyone visiting Central Florida this March.
The Eggstravaganza Returns
The Egg-stravaganza is a fan-favorite tradition that brings character-themed eggs to the World Showcase. While the Disneyland version of the hunt officially starts on March 3, we expect the EPCOT version to begin on the opening day of the festival, March 4. Because Easter is so much earlier this year than last, starting the hunt right away gives guests the most time to participate before the holiday on April 5.
To play, you purchase a map and stickers at locations like Creations Shop or World Traveler. You then search the pavilions for hidden eggs that look like Disney characters. After finding them all and marking your map, you can return it to a redemption spot to collect a small prize. The locations of these eggs usually change every year, so even regular visitors will have a fresh challenge in 2026.
Winnie the Pooh and Piglet Spring Popcorn Bucket
A highlight for collectors this season is the new Winnie the Pooh and Piglet Spring Bucket. This bucket features Pooh wearing pink bunny ears while sitting next to Piglet. The design includes pastel colors and a large Easter egg.
Disney confirmed this bucket will appear at Disneyland Resort and on select Disney Cruise Line ships this spring. Based on past releases like the Thumper bucket from last year, we anticipate this Pooh and Piglet version will also arrive at Walt Disney World. Last year, the seasonal bucket launched in late March, but the early April Easter date suggests we might see this one hit the stands at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom closer to the start of the festival.
Springtime at EPCOT: The 2026 Eggstravaganza and a “Hunny” of a New Popcorn Bucket
Beyond the scavenger hunt and popcorn buckets, the 2026 Flower and Garden Festival offers more ways to celebrate the season.
- Topiaries: Look for new displays throughout the park, including characters from the upcoming film Hoppers.
- Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration: This second scavenger hunt runs the entire length of the festival and focuses on finding Spike the Bee in various gardens.
- Easter Egg Displays: Expect to see the massive chocolate egg displays return to the Grand Floridian and Contemporary resorts starting in mid-March.
The mix of the early Easter holiday and the start of the festival creates a busy and festive atmosphere for the first month of the event. Keep a close watch on the popcorn carts near the park entrance and in the World Showcase for the latest spring merchandise.
