Good afternoon from Epcot! Let’s take a lap around the World and see what’s new.

Future World (East) – Guardians of The Galaxy Construction

From just outside the park, we can see the Guardians of the Galaxy show building is slowly progressing. It’s almost entirely enclosed and they have these white scrims around the access stairwell.

It’s really not busy at all on this lovely 70-degree Monday afternoon.

World Showcase – Festival of the Arts

These beige tents have popped up all over World Showcase. These will all be merchandise and art locations for the International Festival of the Arts, which starts on Friday.

I saw several groups of festival Cast Members getting the rundown in preparation for Friday.

The Odyssey Center will be a location of interest during the festival. There will be activities and seminars and such. Make sure you check it out.

Ratatouille Ride Construction

Construction on the new Ratatouille ride is moving right along. New scaffolding appeared over the last couple days. It appears as though they are finally working on the facade for the show building.

Japan Restaurant Construction

Not a whole lot has changed at the site for the new restaurant in Japan. They brought out a cement mixer, which is always a sign of progress.

I really have no idea what these gentlemen were working on (though it’s obviously restaurant related), but I found it immensely interesting for some reason.

Norway Pavilion – Larry Dotson

Larry Dotson was in Norway hawking his wares again. He shows up periodically. He’s one of a few Disney artists you can find in the parks at times outside of the Festival of the Arts.

UK Pavilion – More Pooh Merch

Over in England, I found a few more pieces of Winnie the Pooh merch had been added to the collection since last week.

I also found this adorable Mary Poppins tea pot and sugar bowl in The Art of Disney. They were sold separately, but didn’t have the prices listed.

Future World (West) – Imagination!

Over in the Imagination pavilion, I noticed they replaced the stereoscopic poster at the entrance to the ride. It’s no longer a faded image of Dr. Nigel Channing with Figment in the background. It’s now the Imagination Institute logo and transforms into Figment.

What a charmer, that Figment.

It looks like the old display in the Imageworks has been completely removed, with nothing but white wall showing now. That’s the first step to the ultimate goal of moving Ralph and Vanellope over here.

Mouse Gear – New Snack Merch

The new snack-themed line has made its way to Mouse Gear. Along with what we’ve already seen at Disney Springs, there are a few clothing options as well.

Be sure to check out the Mickey’s 90th Celebration line while you’re in Mouse Gear. There’s some really cute stuff to be had.