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Staying Sober AROUND THE WORLD at Disney: My Epcot Adventure
As someone in long-term recovery, I’m always on the lookout for substance-free fun, and Disney Parks are at the top of my list. While alcohol is available at all U.S. Disney parks at age 21, the real magic lies in the experiences—not the drinks. As a Florida resident and regular Disney visitor, I’ve often noticed the popular “drinking around the world” trend at Epcot, where guests enjoy beverages from the 11 countries in the World Showcase. But I had a different idea: “staying sober around the world.”
On a recent trip to Epcot, I embraced this mission with the help of coworkers, and I even made a T-shirts to celebrate it!
Mexico: A Mocktail Paradise
We kicked things off in Mexico, where La Cava del Tequila offers two delicious signature mocktails. These were the closest to real mixed drinks in flavor and presentation. Another great option is the frozen non-alcoholic margarita from La Cantina de San Angelis.
Norway to Japan: Sober Delights
In Norway, Kringla Bakeri’s non-alcoholic Viking Coffee paired perfectly with their famous School Bread. China’s Joy of Tea serves a refreshing Mango Peach bubble tea, while the American Pavilion’s Regal Eagle offers a sweet berry sparkler made with white grape juice, strawberry, and peach. Japan impressed with the Kyoho, a blend of Calpico and grape juice.
Morocco to Canada: Unique Flavors
In Morocco, you’ll find non-alcoholic frozen mint tea and a citrus pomegranate slushy—just remember to specify the alcohol-free versions. France and the UK didn’t have dedicated mocktails, but some cocktails could be modified. Canada’s maple popcorn shake is a must-try. Several of the Epcot bars offer some 0% proof nonalcoholic* beer but because their menus do change seasonally one would have to check on current offerings
Bonus Beverages: Seasonal, Galactic and Cool treats
During Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, there are more alcohol-free treats like the Pickle Milkshake, Blood Orange Agua Fresca, and Frozen Pomegranate Tea. The Star wars themed Space 220 also offers fun mocktails like Starship Lemonade and the Solar Flare Sour. Bonus Beverages! Finally, do not miss Club Cool, where you can sample Coca-Cola flavors from around the world for free! Insider warning beware of the Beverly flavor!
Recovery Reflections:
Through this experience, I was reminded that you don’t need alcohol to create magical memories at Disney or anywhere for that matter, but it takes practice. For some being around alcohol may be uncomfortable for a while but Disney has so many other things going on, it is often a great place to take the edge off while trying something new, like a Mocktail. The best part of this experiment for me? Enjoying time with friends, the atmosphere, and the food made my Epcot adventure truly unforgettable. Yes, we made magical memories, and I ensured they remain memorable today but by not drinking “around the world.”
*It may be helpful to note that beers labeled nonalcoholic may have a small trace amount of alcohol in them as the brewing process can leave trace amounts of alcohol by volume. Anything that is distilled/fermented will have a trace amount of alcohol. 0.5% is considered non-alcoholic because a person cannot consume enough to feel altered as the body can metabolize the trace amounts of alcohol before the minute amount could create any effect. If it is labeled alcohol free, it will have zero alcohol. This information is being provided so you can make the choices that make you the most comfortable.
