A fire broke out at Disney’s Epcot theme park in Orlando, Florida on Saturday afternoon sending crowds fleeing in panic.
A significant amount of dense black smoke was visible rising into the sky near the iconic Eiffel Tower at the park’s French Pavilion, as the fire increased in strength, obscuring the Florida sun.
According to officials, the incident occurred when a walk-in cooler in the backstage area unexpectedly caught fire, resulting in the evacuation of the ‘Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure’ attraction.
Within minutes, the peaceful illusion of a Parisian afternoon was shattered.
Footage captured from a cable car at the park depicted numerous individuals having to exit one of the most popular rides, while others who were enjoying croissants, observing street performers, and dining at the restaurant were also required to vacate the area.
The cooler ignited without warning, sparking a blaze that was visible across much of the park. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The fire took place during Spring Break, one of the busiest few weeks of the year.
While the blaze did not spread to guest areas, its proximity to the public and the sheer volume of smoke caused alarm.
A fire broke out at Disney’s Epcot theme park on Saturday afternoon sending crowds fleeing in panic. The iconic Eiffel Tower replica that defines Epcot’s France can be seen on the left
Thick black smoke could be seen billowing into the sky backstage at the park’s French Pavilion
The fire led to the evacuation of the ‘Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure’ ride
Disney say the fire was extinguished by around 7:20pm by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District fire department, but by then dozens of visitors had pulled out their phones to capture the surreal moment and posted the shocking footage to social media.
Disney reassured guests that all safety protocols were followed, and emergency services responded within minutes.
Authorities said no one was injured in the fire but many guests were clearly rattled by what they had witnessed.
For many, the event cast a shadow over what was meant to be a carefree family vacation.
‘It’s out now, but it was a scary moment for a minute!’ wrote one visitor on X.
Firefighters and cast members acted swiftly, with several backstage crews reportedly evacuating employees from nearby food prep and storage areas.
No additional information has been provided as to how or when the fire started.
Later in the evening guests reported that things seemed under control and that the fire had been extinguished.
Thick smoke could be seen across the World Showcase lagoon from as far away as the UK and Canada (exhibits!)
Clouds of smoke could be seen drifting across the World Showcase Lagoon at the very heart of the park
The smoke could be seen billowing into the sky from some distance away
The incident has raised questions about infrastructure and behind-the-scenes safety at the Walt Disney World Resort, particularly during peak seasons when pressure on staff, facilities, and utilities is at its highest.
Park officials have been quick to downplay the severity of the incident, assuring guests that the fire was contained.
Epcot’s France Pavilion, which has become even more popular in recent years thanks to the addition of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and new dining additions, was partially cordoned off as the situation was brought under control.
By nightfall, the smoke had cleared, and Disney resumed normal operations, with no public mention of ride closures or evacuations in official channels.
Passengers traveling on a cable car were able to capture the shocking sight from up above
Disney say the fire was extinguished shortly afterwards but social media has several videos showing smoke rising into the sky
Thick smoke could be seen blotting out the landscape during the fire on Saturday afternoon
The fire occurred during the World Showcase section of the Epcot theme park
Epcot, one of four major theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, is known for its innovative blend of technology and global culture.
On weekends, especially during Spring Break, it can see attendance swell to over 100,000 guests.
Epcot hosts millions of guests each year and features 11 national pavilions in its World Showcase, making the park’s international section a major draw for tourists.
The France Pavilion is one of its most picturesque, featuring romantic architecture and a miniature Eiffel Tower.
