Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the MagicThe EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a premier annual celebration at Walt Disney World, running from January 16 to February 23, 2026. This winter event features visual arts, culinary creations, and performing arts, attracting artists from around the world.
Guests can meet the artists, purchase original artwork, and receive signatures that transform prints and merchandise into personalized treasures.
Among the dozens of talented artists scheduled to appear at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, one name stands out as particularly significant for Disney fans who understand the company’s history and the legendary individuals who shaped the theme park experiences millions enjoy today.
Former Imagineer and Disney Legend Tony Baxter will be appearing at the festival, providing a rare opportunity for guests to meet one of the most influential creative minds in Disney theme park history.
For many Disney enthusiasts, meeting an Imagineer represents a bucket list experience, and meeting Tony Baxter offers a chance to connect with someone whose work has defined multiple generations of classic Disney attractions that continue delighting guests decades after their creation.
Baxter’s appearance at the festival is significant as his 47-year career with Walt Disney Imagineering shaped many beloved attractions worldwide. His creative vision and storytelling have set lasting standards in theme park design. Meeting him to discuss his work and get artwork signed makes for a memorable experience that Disney fans will cherish for years.
When and Where to Meet Tony Baxter in EPCOT
Tony Baxter will be located at the Disney Fine Art booth on the World Showcase bridge, the pedestrian walkway connecting Future World (now World Celebration, World Nature, and World Discovery) to World Showcase. His signing schedule runs January 22 through 25, 2026, with daily availability from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
These time windows offer multiple opportunities for guests to visit throughout the day. However, given Baxter’s legendary status among Disney fans, lines are likely to form early and may result in wait times, depending on attendance levels.
The World Showcase bridge location, near Disney Traders, provides a central and accessible spot that guests can easily reach, whether entering from the main entrance or walking around World Showcase.
The Disney Fine Art booth will feature artwork available for purchase, including Baxter’s Pinocchio-inspired “Tyrolean Fantasy” and Mary Poppins-inspired “Steps of St. Paul’s,” providing collectors with the opportunity to obtain signed pieces directly from the legendary Imagineer.
Disney Fine Art teased additional surprises, stating guests should keep their eyes open in the booth for “a little extra Disney art magic, we promise is real (and not just a ‘Figment’ of your imagination).”
This playful reference to Figment, the beloved purple dragon character, seems particularly fitting given Baxter’s role in overseeing the creation of Journey Into Imagination with Figment, one of EPCOT’s most iconic original attractions that introduced the character who remains the park’s symbol to this day.
Tony Baxter’s Legendary Disney Career
For Disney fans unfamiliar with Tony Baxter’s contributions, understanding his significance requires recognizing the scope and impact of his 47-year career with Walt Disney Imagineering.
Baxter eventually rose to the position of senior vice president of creative development, a role that reflected his creative leadership and the trust Disney placed in his vision for attraction development across multiple parks and projects.
His portfolio includes overseeing the creation and construction of attractions that shape the Disney theme park experience for many generations. He guided the design of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a popular mine train coaster found at several Disney parks worldwide.
At EPCOT, he helped create Journey Into Imagination with Figment, introducing a beloved character and celebrating creativity and the five senses. He also managed the major project of Splash Mountain, a log flume ride that entertained guests for decades before its recent changes.
The Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland brought the excitement of the film series to life in a thrilling attraction. Star Tours introduced Star Wars to Disney parks long before the current expansions and upgrades.
Beyond individual attractions, Baxter served as executive producer of Disneyland Paris, overseeing the creative development of an entire resort that brought Disney magic to Europe. His influence extended across continents and decades, shaping how Disney approaches theme park storytelling and guest experience.
Baxter’s contributions have been widely recognized in the industry. He was named a Disney Legend in 2013 and received a lifetime achievement THEA Award for his influence on themed entertainment. Even after retiring in 2016, Disney sought his expertise for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in 2020, highlighting his lasting impact.
Other Notable Artists Coming to EPCOT
While Tony Baxter represents the headline attraction for many Disney history enthusiasts, the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts features an extensive lineup of talented artists across multiple locations:
Disney Gallery Artists (between Japan and Morocco, near Morocco, and between Morocco and France pavilions) include fan favorites like Jerrod Maruyama, Joey Chou, Dave Perillo, and dozens of others known for Disney-inspired artwork spanning various styles and mediums.
Disney Fine Art (near Disney Traders) features extended appearances from artists like Michelle St. Laurent, Tim Rogerson, Trevor Carlton, and voice actor Bret Iwan, who provides Mickey Mouse’s current voice. Broadway actress and original voice of Belle, Paige O’Hara, will also appear February 12-16.
ACME Archives (near American Adventure) showcases artists specializing in limited edition prints and collectibles.
Thomas Kinkade Studios (near Creations Shop) presents artists continuing the legacy of the Painter of Light with Disney-themed works.
Additional artists appear at various World Showcase locations providing opportunities to discover new favorites and collect unique pieces throughout the festival.
Planning Your EPCOT Visit
For guests hoping to meet Tony Baxter specifically, arriving early during his scheduled times, January 22-25, will likely be essential, given the expected demand.
Bringing items for signing, whether purchased artwork from the booth or personal collection pieces, and preparing questions or comments about his work can enhance the experience. The multiple daily time slots provide flexibility for guests planning their festival days around meeting this Disney Legend.
The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offers Disney fans a dream opportunity to meet Tony Baxter, one of the most influential Imagineers in theme park history, while enjoying world-class art, food, and entertainment throughout the 39-day celebration.