This week, Epcot officially kicked of its 2019 International Flower and Garden Festival, and one of the event’s most iconic elements is the various Disney character topiaries that are added to the park. Among the topiaries to return to this year’s festival is José Carioca, who first appeared in 1942’s “Saludos Amigos” before taking on his most famous role as one of The Three Caballeros. José, also known as Zé in his native Brazil, can once again be seen alongside his fellow Caballeros just steps away from the Mexico Pavilion’s “Gran Fiesta Tour Staring The Three Caballeros” attraction. Several years ago, these Three Caballeros topiaries resided year-round at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, but their removal from that resort has made it possible for them to start appearing at Epcot each spring instead.

Not only did this week see the start of Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival, but Brazil also held its biggest party of the year: Carnaval! This world-famous celebration was the subject of a 2018 installment of the current “Mickey Mouse” series of shorts, and of course Brazil’s very own José Carioca was featured in one of its supporting role. Appropriately titled “Carnaval,” the short centers around Minnie Mouse dancing in the Carnaval parade with José performing on one of the floats. No matter what springtime festival you’re celebrating, José Carioca is one Caballero who is always ready to celebrate.