Fire Breaks Out in EPCOT’s France Pavilion

Admin || Tuesday, March 25, 2025

EPCOT visitors were met with an unexpected and alarming sight in March 2025 when a fire broke out in the France Pavilion, home to beloved attractions, dining experiences, and cultural showcases inspired by the beauty and charm of France. The incident, which occurred in the evening hours, prompted a swift response from emergency personnel and Disney Cast Members, ensuring the safety of all guests and minimizing damage to the area.

What Happened?

According to eyewitness reports and early statements from Walt Disney World officials, the fire began in an exterior section of the France Pavilion, near the popular crêperie and shopping areas. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial indications suggest an electrical issue or a kitchen-related mishap may have played a role.

Cast Members and first responders acted quickly, evacuating guests from the affected areas and ensuring the fire was contained before it could spread further into the pavilion. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the majority of the France Pavilion remained open after emergency teams assessed the situation.

Impact on Attractions and Dining

While the fire was quickly contained, some areas of the pavilion experienced temporary closures as a precautionary measure. The following locations were impacted:

  • Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure – Though the attraction itself was not directly affected, it was briefly closed to allow emergency crews to work safely in the vicinity.
  • La Crêperie de Paris – The restaurant, located near the reported origin of the fire, was closed for further inspection and cleanup.
  • Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie – The popular bakery experienced brief service interruptions but resumed operations shortly after.
  • Boutiques and Shopping Areas – Some retail locations within the pavilion closed temporarily to assess any smoke or water damage.

Disney’s Response and Next Steps

Disney officials have assured guests that safety remains their top priority and that restoration efforts are already underway. Maintenance crews are working diligently to repair any damage, and affected locations are expected to reopen as soon as safety inspections are completed.

Disney also commended the quick response of Cast Members and local fire departments, whose efficiency prevented a more significant incident. Guests who had dining reservations or Lightning Lane passes affected by the closures were given alternative accommodations or refunds.

What This Means for Future Visits

While minor disruptions may persist as Disney finalizes repairs, the overall guest experience in EPCOT remains largely unaffected. The France Pavilion continues to be a must-visit destination, offering world-class attractions, authentic French cuisine, and immersive cultural experiences. Visitors planning to explore the area should check the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates on any lingering closures or schedule changes.

The March 2025 fire in EPCOT’s France Pavilion serves as a reminder of Disney’s commitment to guest safety and the resilience of its operations. As repairs are completed and normal operations resume, fans can look forward to enjoying all the magic and charm that the pavilion has to offer once again.