It’s that wonderful time of the year when shopping, shopping, and more shopping is on our minds! While I was strolling through our local mall, I couldn’t help but think how wonderful it would be if I were shopping around the “world”. Walt Disney World that is. Even more specifically, Epcot’s World Showcase. There are so many treasures to be found in the various shops around World Showcase.

Epcot’s World Showcase allows Guests to take a trip around the world and experience the history, culture, and cuisine of eleven different countries!   Epcot’s World Showcase is a kaleidoscope of nations featuring architecturally authentic buildings and backdrops that celebrate their cultural heritage, arts and entertainment. The 11 nations plus an African-themed Outpost are situated along a 1.3 mile promenade encircling the 40-acre World Showcase Lagoon. While you soak in the culture of the countries, you can also do the shopping I will be talking about.

World Showcase Shopping!

Disclaimer:  I may use the word “unique” several times in this article but it can not be helped. One of the main reasons that most love World Showcase so much is the fact that the eleven countries sell products/merchandise that can only be found when visiting that particular country OR their pavilion in World Showcase. Toss The Outpost and World Traveler into the mix and that makes for some unique around the world shopping. So, while it may sound like I’m using “unique” a lot, it is because it is true. You really do have the opportunity to shop for unique items during your tour of World Showcase.

I’ll begin our shopping journey in a clockwise fashion starting with:

Mexico

Plaza de los Amigos

The main shopping area inside of the Mexico Pavilion is Plaza de los Amigos. This marketplace is designed to look like one of the open air marketplaces of Mexico. Among the goods for sale are piñatas, sombreros, ceramics, baskets, leather goods, Latin foodstuffs and more.

Among our favorite “snacks around the world” to purchase are the tri-colored coconut bars and Cachitos. Cachitos are puffed chile and lime flavored wheat snacks.

Situated in the corner of the marketplace and near the fountain are artists who create and sell amazing works of art. Carved from copal wood, each piece is hand painted and are, amazingly, not very pricey considering the amount of work that is put into each carving. Every single piece is hand painted down to the very smallest of detail.

For those wanting a similar, but mini version of the animals, “bobbing animals” are available for purchase too. At the price of just $3.95, they are a real bargain!

La Princesa de Cristal

Guests will ooh and ahh at the glimmer and shine of Arribas Brothers crystal and glassware sold in La Princesa de Cristal. La Princesa de Cristal sells everything from sparkling jewelry to adorable Disney figurines to personalized glassware that can be engraved while you wait.

If you are lucky, you may get to watch a craftsman at work.  If you’ve ever wondered how the glass figures are made, you’ll want to stop and watch this artisan display his talent. Working behind a large window, the gentleman takes colored sticks of glass, heats them with a torch and then uses various tools to mold and manipulate them into the most amazing glass figures.  It is the neatest thing to watch the whole process. It will also make you appreciate the piece(s) that you purchase knowing the amount of work and talent that went into making it.

La Tienda Encantada

There’s yet another shopping opportunity for you in Mexico! La Tienda Encantada sells fine jewelry, tooled leather goods and colorful accessories. All are inspired by the charm and beauty of Old Mexico.

There’s even a small display of Mickey Mouse jewelry in the store! I bought these super cute Mickey earrings for myself. The metal has a hammered look yet are still a bit shiny.

Norway

Wandering Reindeer

New to the countryside of the  Norway Pavilion is the Wandering Reindeer. Wandering Reindeer features a wide array of costumes, apparel, plush and toys. This is a shopper’s paradise for fans of the blockbuster hit, Frozen.

 

I purchased a Frozen themed postcard and had it signed by Anna and Elsa for a special little Princess back home. She was very surprised to receive this one of a kind souvenir. The price was right too. The postcard was less than $5.00 and was just the right size if the little Princess wanted to frame it later on.

The Puffin’s Roost

The Puffin’s Roost is where you’ll find one of the most unique hats sold on property. For the menn, there are traditional Viking helmets and, for the kvinner, there are helmets with braids! By the way, if you haven’t figured it out already, menn is Norweiian for men and kvinner is the Norwegian word for women. Norwegian imports from wonderful smelling fragrances to foodstuffs to fleece are sold in The Puffin’s Roost as well.

Just like in the movie Frozen, there are trolls to be found in the Norway Pavilion! The giant troll standing in the middle of the store is the perfect place to stop for a photo op.  The Puffin’s Roost sells trolls in all shapes and sizes and they are even featured on much of the merchandise. Every time you see the troll on your shelf or on your mug, you’ll remember your time in Norway.

China

House of Good Fortune

Deep in the heart of the China Pavilion, is a huge “department store”:  House of Good Fortune. House of Good Fortune sells an array of authentic Chinese merchandise including lanterns, hats, wine, jewelry, silk robes, and, of course, Buddah statues. The little girls in your group will be pleased to know that there are several dolls from which to choose.

And, for the boys (or big boys)? There are swords! Depending on their age, you can choose from wooden swords to authentic Chinese swords. My son started collecting the swords when he was 8 and now has a large collection.

DIStracted Note: All swords purchased must be shipped to your home. They can not be taken with you.  The shipping costs are not included in the prices shown in the display cases.

Tea lovers, House of Good Fortune is the place for you! They sell an assortment of tea pots, cups, and even teas!

If you pamper your pooch like I do, you’ll be excited to know that House of Good Fortune has a selection of dog clothes and accessories! There are dog size kimonos in every color under the sun, cute bows for her hair, and even socks!

The Outpost

Located between the China and Germany Pavilions is The Outpost. The Outpost is not considered one of the eleven World Showcase countries. At The Outpost, Guests can play on the African drums, purchase a refreshing drink and sit back and relax a spell.  It also has a few shopping venues.

The Village Trader Shop

The Village Trader Shop sells a wide variety of both the traditional Disney merchandise and some very unique gifts such as drums, music makers, jewelry and more.

Mdundo Kibanda

On almost any given day, Guests will get to see a talented artist carving masks and animals of all kinds from a simple piece of wood.  His talent for carving is outstanding and it is worth the time to stop and watch him work.  His unique wares are for sale in the kiosk. One of my regrets after leaving Walt Disney World was not purchasing a set of salad tongs he had carved.

Bead Outpost

The jewelry sold at the Bead Outpost are made from recycled old Disney park maps and other unused brochures.   Once the brochures or maps become outdated, they are sent to Uganda, through cooperation with the non-profit organization called, Bead for Life.  Villagers roll the recycled paper into waterproof beads that are then made into jewelry and sent back to be sold.  If you want a truly one-of-a-kind souvenir, stop at the Bead Outpost. You’ll not only be wearing a piece of Disney, you’ll be helping others too!

Germany

In the Germany Pavilion, Guests will marvel over the hand painted eggs and steins. In Der Teddybar, children will ooh and ahh over the toys there and are sure to find a favorite to take home.  The adults in the group will want to be sure to visit Kunstarbeit in Kristall where crystal jewelry sparkles in the light. In the German Pavilion, shopping and dining are the featured attractions.

Steins, steins, everywhere there’s steins. After all, Germany is know for its beer. Toast your visit to Germany with one of the unique steins found in several of the shops, in the Germany Pavilion including Stein Haus. Some of the steins are small and simple. Others are quite elaborate.

Die Weihnachts Ecke

It’s Christmas every day at Die Weihnachts Ecke! At Die Weihnachts Ecke, Guests find Christmas decorations of all shapes, sizes, and colors! There’s even the Christmas Pickle Tree!  It is a German tradition to hide a pickle ornament in the branches of the Christmas tree. The parents hung the pickle last after all the other ornaments were in place.  When the children awoke in the morning, they would search for the pickle and the first to find it would receive an extra gift from St. Nicholas.

Why not start your own Christmas Pickle tradition with the purchase of a pickle ornament from Germany?

 

Italy

Il Bel Cristallo

Find exquisite Italian wares here, including Murano glass, porcelain, crystal, chic handbags, clothing and accessories.  This shop also carries fragrances by Prada, Acqua di Parma, Bvlgari and Valentino.

La Bottega Italiana

You can be the belle of the masquerade ball with a unique Venetian mask. Also browse cookware, decorative items and Italian foodstuffs.  For those wanting to sample the various Italian chocolates, there are bins of individual candies for sale! These are excellent for snacking “on the go” while touring Italy.

The American Adventure

As host of Epcot’s World Showcase, the American Adventure Pavilion sits in the middle of the eleven countries and invites Guests to experience America’s history and culture. As one would probably guess, Americana souvenirs and gifts abound in Heritage Manor Gifts. Guests can purchase handcrafted goods, merchandise with the American Flag on them, and, if you are over 21 years of age, there’s even moonshine and American made wines!  For the little ones in your group, well, they can don a “coonskin” cap or a hat resembling a Colonial tricorne hat.

Located in the courtyard and near the World Showcase promenade, is a kiosk that sells other Americana items and pins for trading.

Japan

The Mitsukoshi Department Store is located on the first floor of the large building on the right side of the Japan Pavilion. This two-story, L shaped building, designed to look like an Imperial ceremonial hall in Japan, is home to Mitsukoshi Department Store (downstairs) and Teppan Edo (upstairs). Mitsukoshi is huge! It extends the entire length of the Japan Pavilion and circles around to the Bijutsu-kan Gallery.

Pop culture items such as Hello Kitty, Tamagotchis, “Anime” trading cards and action figures are favorites for the kids in your group. Then, there’s more traditional Japanese merchandise such as footwear, Japanese sandal socks and even kimonos.

Pick a Pearl

Mitsukoshi is also home to the “pick a pearl” oyster stand which has, in my opinion, one of the most “bang for your buck” souvenirs on Disney property.  What makes this souvenir even more special is the fact that you take part in every single step of the experience!. For less than $20.00, you can own your very own pearl.  If your budget allows, you can also have your pearl set into either a necklace, ring, pin, or other pieces.  The sterling silver necklace settings that I have purchased range in price from $18 to $30.  There are more expensive settings for you to choose from as well if your budget allows.  I wrote about my pick a pearl experience in the article: Pick A Pearl – A Souvenir that’s Easy on the Budget.

If you want to take a walk on the wild side, visit the area of the store that sells food stuffs. There are definitely some “different” type things to purchase there. Think you would like the rice crackers wrapped in seaweed? How about freeze dried mini-crabs or squid? Not that adventurous? They also sell Pocky and Hello Panda among other sweets.

Also in that section of the store, is a large collection of bowls, spoons and cups. My daughter used to purchase a bowl and spoon each trip and has quite the collection that she now uses in her own home.

Morocco

Marketplace in the Medina

When you step inside the bustling plaza of shops known as Marketplace in the Medina, you will immediately become immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of Morocco! Marketplace in Medina features remarkable Rabat carpets, woven belts, leather sandals, fabulous fezzes, beautiful brass pots and planters, and much more. Everywhere you look there seems to be another store in a nook.

The Brass Bazaar sells such items as  bowls, pitchers,  and planters, all of which are handworked.

The carpets and textiles sold in Casablanca Carpets are absolutely gorgeous and make a great addition to your home décor.

For those wanting to wear a piece of World Showcase, Tangier Traders is where you need to visit. Tangier Traders is where you’ll find beautiful pieces of clothing, and the accessories to match!

Souk-al-Magreb

Located along the World Showcase promenade and adjacent to Spice Road Table is Souk-al-Magreb. This small shop has an assortment of gifts adorned with the Moroccan flag, wine, spices, tea sets and beautiful pottery.

DIStracted Tip: There are many hidden Mickeys found in the Morocco Pavilion so be on the lookout.

France

Say “bonjour” to fabulous shopping in the France Pavilion! Epcot’s version of France is a reflection of the time period known as La Belle Epoque, the beautiful time. And, you’ll find beautiful items for sale.

La Signature

At La Signature, Guests will choose from over 70 different French cosmetics and fragrances from  Guerlain. And, did you know that you can even enjoy a make-up consultation too? I can think of no better place for this kind of consult. Well, maybe in the “real” France but Epcot’s France will certainly do.

Plume et Palette

Plume et Palette sells upscale products such as designer French bags and fragrances from Le Tanneur, Dior, Kenzo, Thierry Mugler, Givenchy, and more.

Les Vins de France

Many Epcot Guests enjoy making their way around World Showcase and tasting the various beverages offered. Les Vin de France offers wine tastings to Guests 21 and older. If you would like, you can even purchase a bottle and/or souvenir glass  to take home with you.

Souvenirs de France

Located near the back of the France Pavilion is Souvenirs de France. This is where you will find a variety of French “themed” items such a berets, Eiffel Towers in all sizes, notecards, and merchandise with the adorable Marie the cat on them. There are even Eiffel Tower keyrings!

One of my favorite items that I purchased on our last trip to France was a large wooden spoon. I know that some might think that’s a strange thing to purchase when you have such a large selection of items to choose from. But, the scoop on the spoon is large and deep and is the perfect spoon for stirring soups and stews.  And, look at the price! Just $6.95 for something that you can use time and time again.

World Traveler

You may have passed right by World Traveler and might have not even known that it was there. Or, you could have sprinted on past on your way to your next World Showcase destination. World Traveler is in an out of the way location so it’s easy for it to go unnoticed.

Located near International Gateway, World Traveler is your passport to souvenirs. They sell merchandise with the Epcot logo on them and the various country flags as well as Mickey ears, hats, and Magic Bands.  Are you a pin collector/trader? They have those too!  If you need camera media and are on the  World Showcase side of Epcot, pop into World Traveler. They also have coolers with cold beverages for sale.

United Kingdom

Travel thee to jolly old England, where you  will find a bounty of British goods in the United Kingdom Pavilion!

The Tea Caddy

You can build your own selection of Twinings teas using a specially designed wooden slot box sold at The Tea Caddy. Tea accessories, British sweets, cookies and royal memorabilia are also sold here. What better way to remember your time at Epcot than while sipping on teas purchased around World Showcase?

The Crown & Crest

Have you always dreamed of having your family’s coat of arms on a plaque? At the Crown & Crest, you can! You can also get a United Kingdom crest on a mug. If you are a Beatles or other British band fan, The Crown & Crest is the place for you! There are all sorts of Beatles bric-a-brac, Rose & Crown merchandise and a whole lot more in this store.

The Sportsman’s Shoppe has golf accessories from The Old Course at St. Andrews, plenty of football items, and an assortment of pub goods.

The Toy Soldier  has story books, Mary Poppins and Winnie the Pooh items as well as an assortment of items from the popular British shows like “Doctor Who”.

Canada

Our last stop on the World Showcase shopping tour is the Canada Pavilion. You’ll immediately become immersed in the culture of the Native Indians, furriers and trappers. Much of the merchandise is reflective of that culture too.

Northwest Mercantile

As you probably imagined, maple flavored products abound at Northwest Mercantile. There’s maple cookies, maple candies, maple sugar and, of course, maple syrup.

There certainly is no lack of merchandise with the Canadian maple leaf on them! They have everything from PJs to sweaters, hoodies, t-shirts and mugs with either Canada written on them or the maple leaf or, even both!

Goat Mountain Soap Company products

All of this merchandise is wonderful but, if you are looking for a unique gift or souvenir, take a look at this! Northwest Mercantile sells products from Goat Mountain Soap Company. They have a wide array of soaps, lip balms and lotions. What makes them unique? The names! Can you imagine the look on someone’s face when you give them a tube of lip balm named Moose Spit or Bear Breath? What about a piece of soap called Giggling Goat or Sasquatch Sweat? The names are absolutely hilarious. Now don’t get turned off by the names as the soaps actually smell great and are made with quality ingredients.

I’m a Blistex girl through and through and hardly ever venture away from that product; however, I tried the Moose Spit lip balm and it felt fantastic on my lips.

DIStracted Tip: If you purchase any of these products and use them all before making the trip back to Epcot, you can purchase them through the Goat Mountain Soap Company website. Simply click on the name in the paragraph above to be taken to their site. They have a large selections of products to choose from. 

 

Ways to enjoy your World Showcase Purchases

As you can see, there are all sorts of unique and one-of-a-kind things that you can purchase on your way around World Showcase.

Savor the Flavors

Some, like the Cachitos from Mexico, the chocolates from Italy, or wines from France can provide instant gratification. If you want to test your taste buds, try one or several of the “unique” snacks from Japan. Other items can be enjoyed slowly like the teas and bottles of wine.

Wear your souvenirs

You can show off your love for World Showcase and Epcot when you wear one of the shirts, scarfs, hoodies or hats or while carrying a designer purse from France.

Funny memories

You can giggle a little each time you see the silly troll on the shelf or think about the Moose Spit lip balm.

Use them over and over again

The bowls, tea pots, cups and spoons can be used over and over again. You’ll be reminded of your trip each time you use them.

Did you make your shopping list?

Did you find something to add to your World Showcase shopping list? Let us know your favorite Epcot World Showcase souvenir.