Theme World: Festival of the Masters

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November 6, 2013

Festival of the Masters

I know Disney wants us to be in the Holiday spirit, with the Christmas Creep starting tonight with the Jingle Cruise, Mickey's Christmas Party & the Osborne Lights all returning today, but I'm happier about a DIFFERENT tradition returning today at Downtown Disney -- but you have to act fast to see it.

Today marked the first day of the 38th Annual Festival of the Masters at Downtown Disney. It runs through Sunday.

For those who don't know, it is one of the most prestigious art shows in Florida -- drawing more than 300 artists showcasing painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media and more.  If that sounds too highbrow, it really isn't.

Disney being Disney there is also live entertainment, plus crafts for the younger ones.

They can also help build a giant LEGO sculpture and a LEGO mural.

Children are also allowed to try their hands at chalk art.  Near where extremely talented chalk artists are working on the pavement.

Also back this year -- the popular Disney Artist Village featuring folks who work for the mouse interpreting some of the cartoon creations.

New this year, "Mixers and Masters"  features specialty drinks like  the Pinkberry Martini from Wolfgang Puck Café, Blue Nile from Rainforest Café and Huckleberry Lemonade at Splitsville. There are also "Art of Mixology" demonstrations. Many of the restaurants also  sell sidewalk snacks and pass out samples (the chicken crunch at Planet Hollywood is especially yummy)


It's one of my favorite events of the year, but be warned: If you haven't been to Downtown Disney in a while parking has, ummm changed.

This map minimizes the changes visually, but pretty much the entire parking lot from Planet Hollywood to Cirque du Soliel is gone. It's being replaced with a parking garage for the new Disney Springs development.

You can still park at the Marketplace and behind Cirque. There are also overflow lots with shuttles at the nearby Team Disney and SunTrust bank buildings.

You can also valet park at Entrance 4 near Cirque, but it costs $15 plus tip.

 The Festival runs from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m on  Saturday &  10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday.

Here's a link to the Festival of the Masters website to learn more and

Here's a link to my most recent Theme World blog entries.

Keep your emails, questions, tips and comments coming! I always appreciate the feedback.


About the Author:

Ken Pilcher is a lifelong Floridian with more than 30 years in journalism experience. He joined News 6 in 2003 and has covered Central Florida attractions and theme parks since 1988. He currently produces News 6 at 7 p.m.

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