Is Epcot open after fire? Blaze erupts at Walt Disney World theme park in Orlando

A fire broke out at Walt Disney World Resort's Epcot theme park on Saturday, March 22, causing smoke to billow over the France Pavilion. Guests on the nearby "Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure" ride were evacuated, but fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The fire, which was caused by a walk-in cooler, was quickly contained by the local fire department, and operations at the park resumed shortly after, including the Ratatouille ride.

ALSO SEE: Are Tom Cruise and Ana de Armas dating? Romance rumors spark after seen together in London

Details of the fire at Disney World’s Epcot theme park in Orlando, Florida

Where did the fire occur at Disney World’s Epcot?
The fire at Epcot, located near the France Pavilion in the World Showcase area, started backstage, as confirmed by Fox 35.

Was the park evacuated?
While the park itself was not evacuated, guests on the “Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure” ride were evacuated due to the fire on March 22.

What caused the fire at Epcot?
A Disney representative confirmed that the fire was caused by a walk-in cooler. There were no reported injuries, and the fire was extinguished by 7:20 p.m. on March 22.

Is Epcot open today?
Epcot reopened on Sunday, March 23, 2025, with regular operating hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. "Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure" was also operational, as noted in the My Disney Experience app.

Safety questions arrived after the incident at Epcot

The fire has sparked concerns about the infrastructure and behind-the-scenes safety at Walt Disney World Resort, especially during peak seasons when staff, facilities, and utilities are under the most pressure.

Park officials have downplayed the incident's severity, reassuring guests that the fire was swiftly contained.

The France Pavilion at Epcot, which has grown in popularity in recent years due to the addition of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and new dining options, was partially cordoned off as the situation was handled. By the evening, the smoke had dissipated, and Disney resumed regular operations, with no mention of ride closures or evacuations in official statements.

Epcot, one of the four main theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, is renowned for combining technology with global culture. During busy periods, like Spring Break, the park can attract over 100,000 visitors.

With millions of visitors annually, Epcot’s World Showcase, featuring 11 national pavilions, is a key highlight. The France Pavilion, with its charming architecture and replica of the Eiffel Tower, remains one of the most scenic and popular attractions.