Ready to step into the magical garden of EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival? This year’s display is blooming with topiaries that are nothing short of breathtaking! These living artworks bring your favorite Disney characters to life in a dazzling display of horticultural artistry, making the festival truly unforgettable.
The tradition of Disney topiaries dates back several decades when Walt Disney himself was inspired by the intricate topiary gardens of Europe. He tasked his talented animators and landscape artists with transforming this classic art form into something uniquely Disney. By 1963, Disneyland was already home to 24 whimsical topiaries, including dancing hippos and graceful giraffes. Today, this tradition has flourished astonishingly, taking center stage at EPCOT with over 70 stunning sculptures.
This year, EPCOT outdid itself once again. The topiaries range from beloved classics like the Beauty and the Beast in France to the enchanting Elsa at the Norway Pavilion. These green masterpieces aren’t just simple plant sculptures; they are meticulously crafted using an array of horticultural techniques. Imagineer Brittany Smith and cast member Antoinette Valentin’s work on the Princess Tiana topiary at The American Adventure showcase how detailed and immersive these creations can be, aptly reflecting the spirit of New Orleans with native magnolias and florals.
New additions this year include the delightful Groot topiary near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. Inspired by the “I Am Groot” short on Disney+, Groot is sure to bring a smile to every face, young and old. And let’s not forget the incredible topiaries of Asha, Valentino, and Star from the upcoming Disney Animation film “Wish,” greeting visitors at the entrance of EPCOT with hand-woven braids and celestial dust.
As you wander around the festival, be sure to keep an eye out for the intricate Pumbaa and Timon near The Land Pavilion, and do not miss the delightful Figment topiary in the World Celebration gardens. Each piece is a testament to the magical blend of horticulture and animation, turning the park into a living storybook.
We’d love to hear what you think! Which topiary caught your eye, and which characters would you like to see get the topiary treatment next year? Share your thoughts with us in the comments and don’t forget to spread the magic by sharing this story with your friends! For a deeper dive into this green wonderland and to see where you can find all these topiaries, visit the official [Disney Parks Blog](https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/05/21-disney-topiaries-taking-art-form-to-the-next-level/).
[Credit: Thomas Smith, Editorial Content Director, Disney Experiences]
