posted by Dewayne Bevil on Oct 3, 2008 3:00:28 PM

We're definitely in full swing of two theme park fests right now: the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. They're not exactly opposites, but they do make me want to say "different strokes for different folks."
There are similarities to be sure. For instance, I'd suggest sensible walking shoes for both. It's a hike around World Showcase at Epcot ... and high heels aren't the best footware for running from men with chainsaws.
After the jump: 5 tips for each fest.

TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS, 2008
1. Make a plan. Grab a map and scope it out. The event is spread all over the park, so plot out your must-sees. Before even going, make sure you've secured the best-for-you ticket price. There are quite a few deals out there, so consult the Web site (www.halloweenhorrornights.com/orlando) for the best, most economical fit.
2. Go head, try the text-message option. If nothing else, it kills time in line. The instructions are in the map you got with step 1.
3. Relax, you don't have to do EVERYTHING. Unless you're a completist, you don't have to go in every haunted house to have a good time. Take time to smell the roses/scare zones and take in a show or two.
4. Don't miss the flying monkeys or the dangling jack o'lanterns. The monkeys are something you don't see every day, and they dangle above the street of Path of the Wicked scare zone. The pumpkins are in park-like area that leads back to Animal Actors stage and Simpsons Ride.
5. Scared? Me too. Go early anyway. Before dusk, things aren't as frightening and allow us weaklings to assimilate before diving in. Also, repeat after me: It's all pretend, it's all pretend.
TIPS FOR EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL, 2008
1. Make a plan. Grab the free guide book, which does a good job of detailing the fest's food offerings. Circle what sounds irresistable.
2. Know your limits. You don't want to have to waddle back to the parking lot. Don't forget to hydrate.
3. Think urban. The fest is divided by city this year rather than by country (plus a pinch of Louisiana thrown in). It's a slight change, but I like it -- keeps the permanent pavilion residents separate (at least mentally) from the part-timers.
4. Reuse your utensils. Basically, hang onto your fork, knife and spoon. No need to start over at each city, and it's a wee bit more Earth friendly.
5. Share a table. Those high-tops are limited in number. You might even meet someone who'll share food.