You may already be aware, but Disney World has shifted away from plastic straws. This has left many finding themselves with soggy paper straws before they’ve finished their drink. Since Epcot’s festivals feature many outdoor kitchens, you will want to be prepared with a straw that will stand up to all the yummy drinks you will be enjoying.

If you are conscious about your plastic waste, you will want to bring your own reusable utensils. These are readily available in most stores in the outdoor, kitchen or camping sections. It’s also one less thing to grab while you juggle a plate and drink on your way to find the nearest table.

Most come equipped with hand sanitizer, but wet wipes are just as important during the festival. You will want them to wipe down the many surfaces that you will be snacking on top of.

We recommend grabbing a Festival Passport when you get to Epcot so that you can see all the festival menus, merchandise, activities and entertainment. You can then use your pen to mark the items you are interested in and check off the ones you have already done. Want a challenge? Try to check off one food or drink item from each outdoor kitchen at the festival!

While drinking and eating unique foods from around the World Showcase is a lot of fun, sometimes it can result in…well…heartburn or upset stomach. Whether the culprit is a spicy dish or sweet cocktail, you don’t want a little discomfort to ruin your time. Come prepared with antacid!

With all the food sampling you may find yourself too full to finish a dish. Don’t waste it! Throw it in a container or baggie and keep going. it will make for a great snack later when you are waiting for the bus or back at your resort.