Reports from March 3, 2026, highlight maintenance issues at Epcot, including filthy fixtures in The Land Pavilion and damage at Connections Eatery. The World Discovery Liquid Layer Splash Pad was indefinitely closed that day, with water features shut off. Walt Disney World Resort has not commented on these developments ahead of upcoming events.
On March 3, 2026, guests at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort noticed visible signs of neglect in several areas. According to reports from WDWNT, the yellow and orange ribbons cascading from the ceiling in The Land Pavilion appeared filthy and stained, suggesting they had not been cleaned in several years. A photo shared on Facebook showed the fabric with clear dirt accumulation and water stains. The Land Pavilion, located in the World Nature neighborhood, houses attractions such as Soarin’ Around the World and Living with the Land, along with dining options like Sunshine Seasons and Garden Grill. This summer, the pavilion will premiere Soarin’ Across America, a new version of the flight simulator created by Walt Disney Imagineering to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary in July. The updated attraction will also appear at Disney California Adventure Park.
Elsewhere at Epcot, a large sign at Connections Eatery in the World Celebration neighborhood showed scuffs and dents on its black frame, likely from repeated guest interactions. No repair attempts appeared to have been made.
Adding to the concerns, the World Discovery Liquid Layer Splash Pad in the World Discovery neighborhood was indefinitely closed effective March 3. Stanchions and ropes blocked access, and all interactive water features, which typically operate all day, were turned off. WDWNT reported operational difficulties with the splash pad since at least mid-February. However, cooling misters behind the attraction continued to function normally, spraying water at guests. A Facebook photo documented the roped-off area.
Walt Disney World Resort has not issued any public statements on the closure or the maintenance issues, nor provided reopening timelines or repair plans. The splash pad’s most recent publicized refurbishment ended in November 2023. This closure occurs one day before the International Flower & Garden Festival begins on March 4, an event that typically draws heavy crowds, especially during spring break periods.
The timing raises questions about maintenance priorities, particularly with the new Soarin’ attraction approaching and festival preparations underway.
