EPCOT is known for its magical surprises, continually unveiling new installations and experiences that revitalize familiar spaces. This sense of discovery is especially prominent during the International Festival of the Arts, which celebrates creativity through visual arts, performances, and culinary delights. Kicking off tomorrow, January 16, 2026, this year’s festival features an impressive Broadway prop transported from New York City, drawing the attention of guests eager to capture the moment.
Broadway Comes to EPCOT
The massive structure that appeared overnight is Genie’s magic lamp from Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway. And when we say massive, we mean it. This thing is 14 feet tall and weighs 1,200 pounds. It’s not a replica made specifically for the festival. This is the actual lamp that normally sits on top of the marquee at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City.
The lamp was originally unveiled in March 2024 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Aladdin on Broadway. When it’s at the theatre, the lamp is designed to spin on the marquee and periodically emit smoke, as if Genie himself were actually inside. The attention to detail is incredible. The lamp features intricate pattern carvings that match the prop Genie uses in the actual stage production. It was designed by Bob Crowley and built by NPARALLEL and Atomic Props, companies known for creating theatrical magic.
Now this piece of Broadway history is sitting at EPCOT, right across the walkway from CommuniCore Hall and Plaza. It’s positioned perfectly to catch the attention of guests walking through the area, and it’s already generating buzz on social media as people realize what they’re looking at.
Why This Matters for Festival of the Arts
The placement of Genie’s lamp at EPCOT isn’t random. It ties directly into one of the festival’s most popular components: the Disney on Broadway Concert Series and the Once Upon A Stage exhibit. The concert series brings Broadway performers to EPCOT to perform songs from Disney’s stage productions, and this year’s lineup is stacked with talent.
Six performers are joining the series for the first time in 2026, including Isabelle McCalla, Sierra Boggess, Anastacia McCleskey, Ainsley Melham, Susan Egan, and James Monroe Iglehart. They’ll be joined by returning favorites like Adam Jacobs, Michael James Scott, Josh Strickland, Mandy Gonzalez, Kissy Simmons, and Ashley Brown. The performances run throughout the festival, which continues through February 24.
Having Genie’s lamp physically present at EPCOT creates a tangible connection between the Broadway productions and the festival experience. It’s not just about watching performers sing Disney songs. It’s about experiencing the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating these theatrical productions.
The Once Upon A Stage Exhibit
Inside CommuniCore Hall, guests can experience Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway, which is an updated version of an exhibit that debuted in 2025. This year’s version features authentic props and costumes from stage productions like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.
The concept art released by Disney shows Belle costumes and Beauty and the Beast set pieces, as well as The Lion King items that weren’t featured in last year’s exhibit. The exhibit offers photo opportunities and behind-the-scenes insights into how these productions come to life on stage.
For theatre fans, this is a rare opportunity to get up close to items that are normally only seen from the audience or during backstage tours. The level of detail in Broadway costumes and props is extraordinary, and seeing them in person gives you a whole new appreciation for the artistry involved.
More Props Coming to Disney World?
The appearance of Genie’s lamp raises an interesting question. Will Disney add more outdoor props to the area before the festival officially begins tomorrow? It would make sense to complement the lamp with other Broadway-themed installations, especially given how much attention this single piece is already generating.
EPCOT has a history of going all out for Festival of the Arts. The park features living statues, interactive art installations, and photo opportunities throughout World Showcase and the central areas. Adding more Broadway props would fit perfectly with that tradition and create even more Instagram-worthy moments for guests.
Disney World Dining Packages and VIP Experiences
For guests who want to combine their Broadway experience with great food, Disney is offering 15 different dining packages that pair meals with guaranteed priority seating for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. These packages opened for booking on December 17 and are one of the best ways to secure good seats for the shows, especially as crowds increase throughout the festival season.
The dining options range across different EPCOT restaurants, giving guests flexibility in choosing their culinary experience while ensuring they don’t miss out on the performances.
A Disney World Festival for All the Arts
The presence of Genie’s lamp and the Broadway exhibit highlight how Festival of the Arts celebrates creativity in all its forms. Visual arts, performing arts, and culinary arts all get equal attention throughout the festival. The food booths scattered around World Showcase feature artistic presentations and creative flavor combinations. Art installations pop up in unexpected places. And performers bring stages to life with music, dance, and theatrical performances.
The 2026 festival is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious yet, with expanded exhibits, an incredible Broadway lineup, and now this massive piece of theatrical history sitting right in the middle of the park. Whether you’re a theatre nerd, a foodie, or just someone who appreciates beautiful things, there’s something here for everyone.
Don’t Miss It at Disney World
The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts runs from January 16 through February 24. If you’re planning to visit, make sure to check out Genie’s lamp across from CommuniCore Hall, explore the Once Upon A Stage exhibit, and catch at least one of the Disney on Broadway performances. And keep your eyes open for any additional props or installations that might appear as the festival continues. Disney clearly isn’t holding back this year.
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