Get ready to rock your spring at Walt Disney World Resort! The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is back in 2026, and with it comes the highly anticipated Garden Rocks Concert Series. But here's where it gets exciting: this isn't just any concert series—it's a nightly extravaganza featuring dozens of beloved bands, all included with your park admission. No extra tickets needed! And this is the part most people miss: the lineup is absolutely stellar, blending iconic hits from the past with contemporary favorites. Let’s dive into what makes this event a must-see.
Garden Rocks Concert Series 2026: What You Need to Know
Location & Dates:
- Where: America Gardens Theatre at EPCOT
- When: Nightly from March 4 to June 1, 2026
- Showtimes: 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8 p.m.
Pro Tip: Want a guaranteed seat? Consider the Garden Rocks Dining Package, which includes a meal and priority seating. Reservations open on February 5 via the Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app.
The Lineup: A Musical Journey Through Decades
But here's where it gets controversial: With such a diverse lineup, who’s the real headliner? Is it the timeless classics or the modern hits? You decide! Here’s a breakdown of the artists and their standout performances:
Arrival from Sweden (The Music of ABBA) – March 5-7: This band, sometimes featuring original ABBA musicians, brings hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” to life. Fun fact: They’re the only group allowed to perform ABBA’s unreleased song, “Just a Notion.”
Simple Plan – March 8-9: These pop-punk icons from the 2000s will have you singing along to “I’m Just a Kid” and “Welcome to My Life.”
Blue October – March 13-14: Known for their emotional alt-rock anthems like “Into the Ocean,” this band has been a staple since the 90s.
Billy Ocean – March 15-16: A legend of R&B and pop, his hits like “Caribbean Queen” and “Get Outta My Dreams” are timeless.
The Orchestra Starring ELO and ELO Part II Former Members – March 20-23: With classics like “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Don’t Bring Me Down,” this band is a must-see for fans of 70s and 80s rock.
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38 Special – March 29-30: Hard rock meets southern charm with hits like “Hold on Loosely.”
Chubby Checker – April 3-4: The king of “The Twist” will have you dancing in the aisles.
Sugar Ray – April 5-6: From metal to pop-rock, their 90s hits like “Fly” are still crowd-pleasers.
Information Society – April 10-11: This electronic band’s dance beats, including “What’s on Your Mind (Pure Energy),” are perfect for a festival vibe.
Rick Springfield – April 12-13: His pop-rock anthems like “Jessie’s Girl” are as catchy today as they were in the 80s.
Berlin – April 17-18: Synth-pop at its finest, with “Take My Breath Away” stealing the show.
The Commodores – April 19-20: Funk and soul legends behind “Brick House” and “Three Times a Lady.”
FireHouse – April 24-25: Glam rock meets 90s nostalgia with hits like “Don’t Treat Me Bad.”
Air Supply – April 26-27: Soft rock ballads like “All Out of Love” will tug at your heartstrings.
A Flock of Seagulls – May 1-2: Their 80s new wave hits, including “I Ran (So Far Away),” are iconic.
Plain White T’s – May 3-4: Who can forget “Hey There Delilah”? This pop-punk band is a 2000s favorite.
Katrina (formerly of Katrina & The Waves) – May 8-9: Her solo act brings energy with “Walking on Sunshine.”
98 Degrees – May 10-11: This 90s boy band’s R&B and pop hits like “The Hardest Thing” are still smooth.
The Spinners – May 15-16: Motown classics like “I’ll Be Around” never get old.
Josiah Queen – May 17-18: His Christian contemporary and folk music, including “Can’t Steal My Joy,” is uplifting.
Iam Tongi – May 22-23: The 2023 American Idol winner brings his unique Hawaiian flair with “Why Kiki?”
A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce – May 24-25: A heartfelt tribute to his father, Jim Croce, with hits like “Time in a Bottle.”
Queensrÿche – May 29-30: Prog-rock and heavy metal collide with “Silent Lucidity.”
Maverick City Music – May 31, June 1: Contemporary Christian worship music to close out the series on a spiritual note.
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: More Than Just Music
While the concerts are a highlight, the festival itself is a feast for the senses. But here's where it gets controversial: Is it the topiaries, the food, or the gardens that steal the show? You decide!
- Topiaries & Gardens: Over 60 character topiaries and 31+ gardens transform EPCOT into a botanical wonderland.
- Spike the Bee Scavenger Hunt: A fun activity for all ages, searching for character-themed eggs.
- Outdoor Kitchens: Sample new dishes and drinks from around the world.
- The Garden Graze: A food stroll challenge that rewards your culinary adventures.
Final Thoughts
The Garden Rocks Concert Series 2026 and the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival are a perfect blend of music, nature, and Disney magic. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, pop, or contemporary Christian music, there’s something for everyone. But here's the real question: Which artist are you most excited to see? And do you think the topiaries or the food will be the highlight of your visit? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
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