Cooling off on a warm day
by tinker_me_happy

Water is everywhere at Epcot, but nowhere does it draw our attention more than the beautiful fountains throughout the park.

You can’t help but notice Epcot’s spectacular Fountain of Nations at the heart of Future World (see photo on page 153). You may even have been cooled (or chilled) by its drifting mists. But have you really taken the time to savor this carefully choreographed water ballet? Every 15 minutes, the fountain dances to another musical number, with special seasonal music during the Christmas holidays. Thousands of water jets and lights are computer-synchronized to the rhythms and melodies. 30,000 gallons of water course through the fountain, and 2,000 gallons can be airborne at one time, shooting up to 150 feet high. While the mists are more chilling at night, the fountain’s lights make the display that much more magical. Enjoy a meal at the Electric Umbrella (see page 235) and catch the show!

Beyond this, nearly every pavilion has its own water feature, from the tidal splashes in front of The Seas with Nemo & Friends to the upsidedown waterfall at the Imagination pavilion. Even the countries in World Showcase get into the watery act, with delightfully-detailed fountains that evoke each country’s charms.

And let’s not forget Epcot’s play fountains, which are beloved by kids and kids-at-heart. You’ll find two in Future World, one near the plaza as you pass into Future World and the other on the way to Test Track. If you intend to play in them, be sure to bring Cooling off on a warm day a change of dry clothing!