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EPCOT Transformed: From Family Haven to Adult Party Central

BBG News

Currently, a viral video on TikTok showcases some aspects that many find problematic about the transformation of EPCOT. In this clip, a group of nine adults, armed with drinks, are seen boisterously singing the Star-Spangled Banner in front of the American Adventure pavilion, behaving as if they were rowdy college students on a bender. The spectacle concludes with one individual jumping into the decorative fountain, creating splashes reminiscent of a wild Vegas pool party.

They were ejected from the park, sure. Likely trespassed. But the damage is already done.

This isn’t just a singular event; it’s no longer unusual. It’s become the usual outcome of Disney’s intentional shift in transforming EPCOT from a hub for cultural exploration into an outdoor bar hopping experience. Initially, Walt Disney conceived EPCOT as a city of tomorrow. Later on, Disney designers changed that into a learning-focused family environment – a place where families could venture around the world together, interact with cast members from distant lands, and gain valuable insights.

Today, EPCOT is often seen as an amusement park catering to grown-ups who interpret “Drinking Around the World” as an excuse to behave childishly, similar to rowdy adults at a tailgate party.

To put it plainly, it’s not just about that viral video; it’s about a repeated trend of escalating unusual actions. For instance, remember the incident where a man climbed the pyramid of the Mexico pavilion some years back, following an energetic drinking spree around the world? Also, there have been accounts of grown-up attendees breaking down emotionally, stumbling, shouting obscenities, and losing self-control in public areas.

Once upon a time, at a popular theme park, I had an unusual experience that still lingers in my memory. In the Japan pavilion, I unbelievably saw a fully grown man disregard social norms by stripping down and relieving himself near a bush, all while evading the watchful eyes of security. Another time, it wasn’t a carnival or Mardi Gras, but rather a family-friendly park when an adult guest let out a loud, inappropriate cheer, shouting “Big Busty Ladies!” across the lagoon. Quite unexpected and not what one typically encounters at such venues.

If this all sounds more like Bourbon Street than a Disney park… that’s because it is.

Now, Disney is taking it a step further – introducing full bars to Magic Kingdom. Yes, what was once a dry area within Walt Disney World is now transforming into yet another venue for sipping pricier cocktails. It all began discreetly in 2012 with Be Our Guest offering wine and beer. Since then, an increasing number of eateries have been serving alcohol to what are known as “Disney Adults.” The dam has effectively broken.

Originally, there was an entertainment spot on Disney’s property known as Pleasure Island. This area, part of Downtown Disney (now Disney Springs), was well-liked and offered clubs, bars, lounges, and restaurants for adults only. However, Disney closed Pleasure Island several years back, possibly due to its adult-oriented atmosphere contradicting the family-centric nature of their business operations.

But now they’ve turned EPCOT into Pleasure Island.

Disney has forgotten who its parks were meant for.

These spots originally intended as family-friendly destinations, rather than venues for groups of adults dressed alike, boisterously reciting popular catchphrases, imbibing cocktails prior to midday hours. Instead, they were designed for families – where parents and kids could uncover enchantment together. EPCOT was a place that allowed you to delve into Moroccan culture, converse with a Japanese resident, sample authentic Norwegian cuisine, and depart with newfound knowledge. Unfortunately, that essence seems to have faded away.

Instead of that, consider this rephrased version: Is it all about a few more free drinks at the pub, louder evenings, or less expensive jokes? It seems like EPCOT, along with Disney as a whole, is catering to the self-entitled and immature adults among us.

Let’s be clear: I’m not suggesting that adults without children can’t appreciate Walt Disney World. In fact, Double Income No Kids (DINK) adults absolutely should visit the parks if it brings them joy. However, they should immerse themselves in the experience respectfully and not overshadow it. They should keep in mind that while their enjoyment is valued and promoted, it should always remain suitable for families and never disrupt the experience of others. They can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, sample unique cuisines, indulge in delicious churros, and even have a drink or two responsibly.

I’ve had a shift in perspective regarding Walt Disney World, and it’s clear that the focus has moved towards some adults who seem to forget that these parks are meant for everyone. Instead, let’s remember that Walt Disney World is a place for all, where we should treat each other with the utmost respect. This isn’t just about honoring Disney’s vision or considering the hard work of the cast members, but also about families who have worked tirelessly to make their dream vacation happen. These families didn’t save for years to witness obnoxious behavior from intoxicated adults turning a magical destination into an unruly party. They came for the memories, the magic, and the enchantment that Disney once promised. Let’s strive to restore the charm and wonder that this place was meant to provide.

Instead of focusing on influencers seeking viral content or tipsy thirty-somethings attempting the “drink around the world,” Disney should recall who created its legacy – families, particularly children with sparkling eyes and parents capturing these moments on camcorders. Even adults without kids yearn for that sense of childlike wonder again, forming a bond across generations through shared experiences of something extraordinary.

Walt Disney World is supposed to be for everyone—not just those loud enough to hijack it.

The videos we’ve seen lately should serve as a warning. However, they won’t. This is because Disney has been promoting it—a gradual degradation of respect, replacing it with excitement, internet traffic, and alcohol sales. What was once the epitome of family-friendly travel destinations is transforming into something completely different.

It’s not magical. It’s mortifying.

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2025-05-12 19:06

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