Viewing Tips for Epcot's Eat To The Beat Concert Series

In addition to the fantastic culinary treats offered up every year at Walt Disney World's Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, each night the America Gardens Theater plays host to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. This high energy series of concerts brings in well-known names in American music to play on average three sets a day, for two or three days throughout the Festival season.





Eat To The Beat Concerts are free with Epcot admission, and take place three times per evening (5:30pm, 6:45pm, 8:00pm) during the Food & Wine Festival.

The outdoor theater seats roughly around 1,000 people on bench style seats. The intimate size allows for an excellent view throughout the audience.

Since the Theater is entirely outside, devoted fans should wear sunscreen and may want to bring along an umbrella in case of rain.

Queue lines form on both sides of the theatre, so choose either side to get in line.


America Gardens TheaterAmerica Gardens Theater


Depending on which band playing, and how much of their fanbase has made the trip to see them, the length of the lines on any given night will change. It's not unusual for the bigger name bands to have lines that form several hours before a show starts.

The line for the 5:30 show is often large, with it historically being the most attended performance each night. You may want to consider lining up for the second or third show of the night instead.

The theater is cleared after each performance to allow more guests a fair chance at viewing. If you want to catch multiple sets in the same night, you will have to exit the theater and get in line again.

Bands usually change up their set-lists a bit from performance to performance, so the music of the night stays fresh and exciting for everyone.


Rick Springfield October 12-13, 2015Rick Springfield October 12-13, 2015


The courtyard in front of the American Adventure offers a comfortable area with some seating directly across the walkway from the concert venue. It's easy to hear the music from the acts and enjoy the sounds of this great entertainment without having a seat inside the theater. There are also some fantastic marketplace booths at the sides of the courtyard known for amazing lobster rolls and great beer.

Since 2014, Disney has offered a brand new opportunity for the popular Eat to The Beat Concert Series. Eat to the Beat Dining Packages pair your concert experience with lunch or dinner at your favorite Epcot restaurant and enjoy a guaranteed seat for the show. Visit our friends over at the Disney Food Blog for more information on these great Dining Packages.


Marketplace Booth Food In The American Adventure CourtyardMarketplace Booth Food In The American Adventure Courtyard


While fan behavior at typical concerts can get a little ruckus, don't forget you're at Disney World and this is a family friendly environment. Be polite when walking to your seats, and remember Rick Springfield doesn't really need another pair of panties thrown at him.

The 2016 Line up for Eat To The Beat is packed with returning favorites and several new artists. For complete information on all things Epcot International Food & Wine Festival be sure to visit our friends at the Disney Food Blog.

Do you have a viewing strategy for Eat to The Beat Concerts? Leave your tips in the comments below!

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