Fire at Disney World's EPCOT France Pavilion Prompts Evacuations

A backstage walk-in cooler caught fire, causing thick smoke and ride closures during a busy Spring Break day.

The fire broke out on March 22, 2025, in a backstage walk-in cooler at EPCOT's France Pavilion and was extinguished by 7:20 PM local time.
Thick black smoke was visible across the park, leading to evacuations of the Remy's Ratatouille Adventure ride and nearby areas.
No injuries were reported, and the French Pavilion reopened by 8:20 PM, though the ride remains closed for investigation.
The fire occurred during EPCOT's International Flower & Garden Festival and Spring Break, a peak period for park attendance.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, which did not spread to guest areas or cause structural damage.