Deb's Digest

The 2011 Epcot International Food and Wine festival officially opened today. Deb Koma and I are here to attend events and dine at the food booths and bring you the latest coverage.

Since we were at the First Bites reception last night, I got a chance to look around at some of this year's merchandise. Lots of fun stuff, some new, some repeats of years past - but all sporting this year's logo.

I attended the last 2008 Party for the Senses in November. This year, as others have reported, the Cirque entertainers were replaced.

Here is one of the entertainment groups. These 2 gentlemen were AMAZING! I couldn't stop watching them. The photos won't do their strength justice, but at least you'll get a flavor of their performance.

If anyone knows their name, please let me know.

Every year the Food and Wine Festival sports new logos and merchandise for you to purchase, this year is no exception.

There is plenty of merchandise to choose from, both with and without Food and Wine logos. Here are just a few of the items I found in the Festival Marketplace in the Wonders of Life pavilion.

Chef Mickey Plushes cost $9.95 plus tax.

Festival Aprons

Mugs cost $12.00 plus tax.

Trivets cost $12.00 plus tax.

Wine Store - if you see something you like, get it! They do sell out of popular wines as the Festival goes on.

Wine Store

Limited Edition pins

Festival poster is $16 unframed. Artist does signings off and on during the festival.