A fire broke out on March 23, 2025, at Walt Disney World's EPCOT theme park in Orlando, Florida, originating from a walk-in cooler located in the backstage area of the France Pavilion. The incident, which occurred just after 7 PM local time, prompted the swift evacuation of guests from the popular "Remy's Ratatouille Adventure" ride, as thick smoke billowed high above the pavilion, becoming visible from various sections of the park.
According to a Disney representative, the fire was quickly extinguished by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District fire department; fortunately, no injuries were reported in the aftermath of the blaze. Videos shared on social media during the incident showcased dark clouds of smoke rising from the France Pavilion, prompting visitors and onlookers to express their shock. Guests were subjected to a lockdown as park officials implemented emergency safety protocols.
Despite the disruption, the France Pavilion managed to reopen its doors to guests later that evening, although the "Remy's Ratatouille Adventure" ride remained closed for further inspection. The incident occurred during EPCOT's International Flower & Garden Festival, a time when the park sees a significant increase in attendance.
Visitors to the park reported their experiences on social media, describing the tense moments during the evacuation. "It’s out now, but it was a scary moment for a minute!" commented one attendee on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. The smooth response from emergency services ensured that park operations were minimally impacted.
The "Remy's Ratatouille Adventure" ride, which opened on October 1, 2021, allows guests to shrink down to the size of a rat and join Chef Remy on an entertaining culinary caper through Gusteau’s restaurant, as depicted in the beloved Pixar film Ratatouille. The ride is a significant attraction within the France Pavilion and holds an important place in the overall landscape of EPCOT.
In light of the incident, park officials have reiterated the importance of stringent safety measures and protocols to protect both guests and staff in large-scale theme parks, especially during high-traffic events like the International Flower & Garden Festival. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, Disney aims to reassure its visitors regarding safety standards enforced throughout the resort.
The fire underscores the importance of emergency preparedness in theme parks, where the audience's expectation for safety is paramount. Guests are reminded to be aware of their surroundings and follow all safety guidelines while they enjoy the park's attractions.
As the investigation progresses, Disney has not publicly commented on specific measures it may implement to further enhance safety at the EPCOT theme park. Meanwhile, the excitement for the remaining festival activities continues as guests flock to EPCOT to enjoy the attractions, noting that the France Pavilion, with its charming atmosphere and engaging experiences, remains a hallmark of their visits.
Walt Disney World remains one of the most visited holiday destinations globally, hosting millions each year and offering an array of experiences across its four theme parks. Maintaining a safe environment amidst the magic of Disney is crucial for ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit for all.
The events of March 23, 2025, serve as a reminder of the challenges that can arise in such bustling environments, but also of the resilience and efficiency of emergency responders who ensure that safety remains a priority when unexpected incidents occur.
