Travel Around the World at Epcot and Find Some Great Entertainment along the Way

UPDATE 8/29/2014: As of September 27th, 2014 the World Showcase Players, Off Kilter, and the Spirit of AMerica will no longer be performing at Epcot. You can find more information HERE.

When someone says "Epcot" it's likely that the first things that come to mine include Soarin', Test Track, Spaceship Earth, and of course World Showcase and its 11 pavilions. And while we know those pavilions offer an array of attractions and delicious dining choices, some people might not realize there are also some great entertainment options if you're willing to slow down as you traverse the World Showcase.

America Gardens Theater

As you make your way to World Showcase and as you're wandering through Future World East keep an eye out for The JaMMitors. They're a percussion-playing "clean-up crew" that uses trash cans, dustpans, and hardhats to create a short but entertaining musical show. You can find the show times in your Epcot Show Times Guide.

We'll start in a counterclockwise fashion today, stopping in Canada first where you'll find Off Kilter - Celtic band that plays original and traditional Celtic music, traditional rock-and-roll with a Celtic twist, and original songs that incorporate the bagpipes. Oh, and they also wear kilts. Don't miss this band - check your Times Guide for show times.

Off Kilter Plays in Epcot's Canada

Heading into the United Kingdom you'll want to keep an eye and ear open for several entertainment options.

The World Showcase Players can be found in the pavilion, engaging guests with their improvised skits. In the back of the pavilion under a gazebo in the gardens, guests will likely find British Revolution playing a set of classic British rock from The Rolling Stones, Queen, The Who, and others.

And if you're stopping in the Rose and Crown Pub you might get a chance to see the Rose and Crown Pub Musician who will entertain with a set full of live music, including sing-alongs with the diners. He might even take requests from the crowd. Grab a pint and join in the fun.

Serveur Amusant in France

After you've had a pint or two in the United Kingdom, head over to France and try to catch a Serveur Amusant performance. These acrobats stun and entertain audiences with their dazzling (and some might argue death-defying) acts of balance and coordination. I don't know about you, but every time he's perched at the top of all those chairs I hold my breath.

Once you've enjoyed some food (and wine!) in France, you might wander over to Morocco and be lucky enough see MO'ROCKIN' perform. This group of musicians uses modern and traditional instruments to create a blend of music from the Middle East, Africa, Spain, and America. Guests will find them performing at the lagoon side of the pavilion throughout the day.

World Beats Influence Mo' Rockin

After the excitement of France and Morocco, you might need some time to relax in Japan and it's a perfect pavilion for quiet and reflection. You'll also find Matsuriza, a traditional Taiko Drum troupe that performs near the pagoda. The drummers are mesmerizing to watch and the drums are oddly relaxing.

Guests in Japan will also find Miyuki - known as "the candy lady." Miyuki creates sculptures using taffy-like rice dough that is heated to 200 degrees. It's quite amazing to watch and sometimes she'll even take requests from the "audience."

Matsuriza Taiko Drums at Epcot's Japan Pavilion

As your journey takes you to the halfway point - The American Adventure - you probably need to rest your weary feet. And sitting down for a performance of "The American Adventure" is a good idea. Just be sure to gather in the Rotunda of the pavilion building in time to hear the Voices of Liberty. This a capella group wows the crowd with their captivating performance of favorite all-American songs including "America the Beautiful," "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," and "Star Spangled Banner."

Outside the pavilion building, you'll find The Fife and Drum Corps performing patriotic songs as they march around the area. Sometimes the Corps will invite kids to become "official sons and daughters of Liberty" and include the kids in their performance.

Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps

Next door in Italy, you might find Sergio - who is a master juggler and mime - performing in the piazza. Or maybe you'll be entertained by the antics of The Ziti Sisters, a comedy troupe who are dressed in all red (so you can't miss them!). The group interacts with the audience as they entertain through music, dance, and hilarious behavior.

A few pavilions down in China, you'll find the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats performing gravity-defying feats of acrobatics. You're certain to be mesmerized by the strength and balance shown by these performers. It's a can't-miss show.

Ending your world tour in the Mexico pavilion you'll be treated to the festive sounds of Mariachi Cobre, a mariachi band performing traditional folk music.

Listen to the Mariachi

And that in a nutshell is your world tour of entertainment options at Epcot from our fantastic regular Guest Author Traci C, and to Mark Weaver and Anthony Trumbo for their images. What's your favorite, can't-miss performance when you're visiting? Leave us a comment and let us know.