Mouse lovers of all ages know that NO ONE does fireworks quite like Disney. For many people, myself included, seeing the firework displays with your loved ones after a day in the parks is what we look forward to the most. I absolutely adored them as a child and I love them even more as an adult, watching them reflected in the eyes of my kiddos.
Disney truly creates moments of magic when they harmoniously combine the lights, music, and fireworks. BUT… where can we see these displays? Most of us know about the fireworks at Magic Kingdom…but where else can we see these spectacular fireworks and light shows throughout the parks? I have compiled a list of current places to sit back, relax, and be wowed.
Magic Kingdom, “Disney Enchantment”
First off on our list of stops is going to be at the Magic Kingdom. Magic Kingdom’s “Disney Enchantment” Now Through April 2, 2023. It will then be replaced with the beloved “Happily Ever After” nighttime spectacular. You can find these amazing displays located right past main street at Cinderella’s castle.
Want an extra special treat? Book extras such as “the Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Treats & Seats” or “Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment After-Party.” Both of these will get you preferential seating as well as some delicious treats. Oh- And If you are staying at a resort near the Magic Kingdom you can even catch the “Electrical Water Pageant”, which is currently being enhanced for the 50th year celebration.
Pro Tip: If being up close and personal is something you strive for,get there at least an hour before the show starts. Make sure to check the times guide or park app for daily showtimes!
Epcot “Harmonious”
Next stop is Epcot! Harmonious is one of the largest shows ever put together for Disney and features different parts of the world coming together as one! However, “Harmonious” will soon be replaced with “Epcot Forever” beginning on April 3, 2023. If it’s on your bucket list you better get that trip booked quick!
Luckily, though, because of the central location of this show (at the World Showcase Lagoon) Harmonious is one of the easier shows to grab a great spot to watch. If you do want a centered view, though, try and snag a spot at the American Adventure or the Showcase Plaza. Any true Disney expert will tell you that this show is best enjoyed with one of the many treats from around the world showcase!
Pro Tip: For an extra treat, while watching the shows at Epcot, you can book the Spice Road Table Fireworks Dining Package or the Rose and Crown Dining Package. Both options offer front row viewing a delicious grub! This option also gets you out of the crowds for a more relaxed experience.
Animal Kingdom “Tree of Life Awakening”
There may not be any fireworks involved but I cannot make a trip to Animal Kingdom without watching the “Tree of Life Awakening.”
Occurring every ten minutes after it gets dark, you will see the beloved tree of life light up and come alive with colors, scenes, and music. If you are a fan of Disney’s “The Lion King”, you will absolutely just adore this show. It is the perfect way to end your day at Animal Kingdom. It is a cannot miss if you have younger kids, or if you are a kid at heart!
Hollywood Studios “Fantasmic” and “Wonderful World of Animation”
Still looking for more? Let’s head over to Hollywood Studios for Fantasmic! Fantasmic is a super special experience like no other. Part water show, part fireworks with music, lights, and more!
Grab a seat and get ready to see some of your favorite characters battle it out in a classic “good versus evil” extravaganza. Fans of all ages will be thrilled as it perfectly blends beloved nostalgia with the present. I recommend showing up early to get a great view! Fantasmic is the most popular nighttime experience at Walt Disney World! With keeping that in mind, I personally suggest 90 minutes before the show starts.
Pro Tip: To get the best viewing area for the show book a special Fantasmic! Dining Package! Packages are avaliable at 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Hollywood and Vine and the Hollywood Brown Derby and give VIP access into the show as well as a special VIP seating area exclusive to those that have booked this dining experience.
A second option at Hollywood Studios, is the Wonderful World of Animation. Each night, The Chinese Theatre is magically transformed into scenes from everyone’s Pixar favorites and additionally takes you through over 90 years of Disney Animation Magic. At Wonderful World of Animation you get to revisit beloved classics and even get a glimpse of rare Disney clips!
Pro Tip: This show is located in the main thoroughfare which is a high traffic area. This area can be a bit tricky to navigate, but it is worth it! Best viewing area is front and center of the Chinese Theater. Try to keep your distance a bit because if you’re too close for this one, you will miss A LOT!
There are many more nighttime experiences as well that happen seasonally throughout the year! Shows such as Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular, Fourth of July Nighttime Extravaganza, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and the New Year’s fireworks are just a few. What is your favorite show at Disney World?
About the Author
My name is Courtney Trapp and I’m an independent travel planner with DizN Vacations at CS Elements Travel. I live in East Texas with my two year old Princess, Cora, my six year old future scientist, Cole, and my real-life Prince Charming, Jake. My husband and I are both Fine Arts Educators and performers. My family loves to travel and does so as often as we can. Contact me for help with your family’s next magical adventure! Courtney@diznvacations.com
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