CommuniCore Hall Opens to Guests at EPCOT

CommuniCore Hall opened its doors on June 10, as the final construction walls in EPCOT have come down. After more than four years, the multi-year transformation of World Celebration has been marked as complete. This new addition offers flexible space to serve multiple uses: outdoor concerts and entertainment, rotating Quick Service options, and a character Meet & Greet.

CommuniCore Hall

The space inside CommuniCore Hall is outfitted with ample tables, chairs, and air conditioning. On a hot day, guests were clearly enjoying having a place to stay cool and rest before heading back into the heat. Additionally, it was great to have a space that isn’t a shop or attraction to duck into while a storm passes. The area will also be used during Festivals, and has multiple windows that can be opened up for food service.

The space that was unveiled looks noticeably different than the concept art. While some may be disappointed in the lack of theming within the space, it clearly serves a need. And I was lucky enough to attend a preview of the space that showed how quickly this bare canvas can be dressed up. It should look quite different when it’s being used as a Festival space.

Mickey & Friends

As part of CommuniCore Hall, guests can find a new character greeting location where they can meet Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy. The outside walls have vivid murals painted on them, and most of the queue is located outside. The area does have a Lightning Lane, as well as a standby entrance.

The backdrops inside are bright and depict classic EPCOT locations, including Spaceship Earth, The Imagination Pavilion, and The Land Pavilion. The art style carries through from what guests will find on the exterior of the building.

The character interactions were fantastic. Each of the characters spent a good amount of time interacting with the guests, and there were really talented PhotoPass photographers there to capture the moments.

“¡Celebración Encanto!”

This limited-time show will run through September 6 on the CommuniCore Plaza Stage. The show includes singing, dancing, and trivia from Encanto. During the show, performers lead the audience in singing favorite songs from the film. Younger guests are invited to take part, with props related to the movie as well. The show runs multiple times a day, with showtimes available in the My Disney Experience app.

Toward the end of the performance, Mirabel and Bruno join the party and dance with the crowd. This show is definitely geared towards younger guests, but it’s a fun option for families looking for an outdoor activity. The Cast Members put their all into performing, and the stage looks great. In front of the stage, there is ample green space and some umbrellas for guests looking to have a seat and relax.

Festival Favorites

This Quick Service food and beverage window will be rotating menus throughout the year, and to start, they’re serving dishes inspired by Encanto. This includes a cheese-stuffed arepa, coconut tres leches, and a passion fruit daiquiri. In the future, guests can expect to find some of the most popular items from the four seasonal EPCOT festivals.

Are you excited about the end of Construction at EPCOT? Are you looking forward to having a dedicated Festival space? Let us know in the comments!