Epcot construction drags on 2,155 days after the announcement

The Epcot construction announcement was in 2017. Since then, we have undergone a worldwide pandemic, two Disney CEO changes, 16 Marvel film releases, and three different Walt Disney World firework shows. Now, we expect to be able to visit the majority of World Celebration by late fall of this year.

Back in 2021, I wrote a similar article, showcasing the ongoing work at Epcot for World Celebration, Space 220, the Play! Pavilion, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

One of the changes to Epcot (that was loved by fans online) is the Beacons of Magic light update to Spaceship Earth. Eventually World Celebration is supposed to be illuminated at night as well, with some areas changing color according to Spaceship Earth.

Adding the park in theme park

For now we have this close-up look at one of the numerous garden areas under construction, like you can see in the previous concept image. I’m all for places to rest with ample shade and seating, and if this section of the park can also offer a few snacks and character pop-ups (plus the nightly lighting entertainment), I think it could be enjoyed by many. We can’t forget the word park in theme park.

Bioreconstruct points to another area of World Celebration that’s farther along. Here we can see both seating and shade in this area close to Connections and the Creations Shop. While not confirmed, it’s quite possible this area of World Celebration could open early in stages.

Main areas currently under construction

A more recent Epcot construction announcement spoke about the Mickey & Friends area, where guests will visit and see favorite friends in a themed and air conditioned environment. This should be located where the green arrow is pointing.

The blue arrow is pointing to Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana. This lush area stands out among the steel and dirt of the nearby construction. Once opened, guests can expect a walk-through experience teaching about water’s importance to the earth. Lastly, at the yellow arrow, is a bathroom that has opened and closed multiple times during this construction progress. Based on the walls and concrete walkway, it may open again soon.

To support Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana, a water treatment center is nearby. Eventually this should be fully hidden from guests’ view. The concrete work at the top of the image may be another garden and could hold digital signage.

Above is another view of the possible garden extension to Journey of Water – Inspired by Moana. In the background, you can see guests walking through the heavy foliage that is already installed. This area is in both the World Celebration and World Nature neighborhoods of the park. Much of the foliage is taking over the job of the construction walls, as more and more is completed in this section of Epcot.

The World Celebration Epcot construction announcement was one of many projects planned for the park. While some have come to fruition, others seemed doomed never to happen. For now, this is our view of the park center, which as of today, has been under construction for nearly 10% of the park’s entire existence.