Walt Disney World Hacks

The History of Walt Disney World’s Fireworks Spectaculars

If you’ve ever been to Disney World, chances are you’ve been a witness to one of their amazing fireworks shows. They are explosive (obviously), amazing and quite the spectacle.

Walt originally wanted a fireworks spectacular to bookend the night for his original park, Disneyland in California. A way to give the finale the visitor’s day needed, insure that they guests stayed longer than a few hours and accentuated the center of Disneyland, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.

Inevitably, the fireworks show was copied to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and it became a staple of the theme park experience. Soon, fireworks were exploding all over Walt Disney World across three parks.

Through the years, Walt Disney World has offered a number of different fireworks shows, discontinuing some and adding others. This post chronicles each of them. If I miss out on any, be sure to let me know in the comments.

Fantasy in the Sky – Magic Kingdom

Fantasy in the sky was the original fireworks showcase of the Magic Kingdom. Like Wishes, it took its cue from classic Disney films. The show was a staple of the Magic Kingdom nightly from 1976-2003 until it was replaced by Wishes, the current fireworks display at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

Fantasy in the Sky – 4th of July Edition

This particular edition of the trademark Cinderella Castle show is no more. But thanks to video, we can always remember it fondly.

Best Places to Watch Wishes in the Magic Kingdom

 

Wishes is one of those must-do events when you visit Walt Disney World. Who hasn't seen the iconic images of fire exploding above the castle?

Wishes also regularly plays a part in big life events. I've personally seen marriage proposals take place during Wishes. And many other guests make Wishes a special event for honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays and the like.

So, obviously, people want the best experience for their Wishes excursion. The fact of the matter is, there are a number of excellent options when it comes to watching Wishes. I'll give you all of the options that I possibly can and try to highlight the pros and cons of each.

It's important to note that there is a location within the Magic Kingdom that dims the lights during Wishes. I've outlined this area on the map below. While there are some not-so-great spots in this area, I'd easily say that the best spots to view Wishes are right within this area:

How To Find The Best Place To Watch Finding Nemo: The Musical

Animal Kingdom's Finding Nemo: The Musical is an immersive show that makes you feel as if you are under the sea. With so much going on around and above you, where's the best place to watch?

The most truthful answer is: it just depends. The best way is to see the show more than once, but here's a rundown of where you can expect the most action (other than the state, that is) within the theatre.

This is my little mock-up of the Finding Nemo seating area. Please excuse any flubs. I never claimed to be an artist.

Obviously, where you see the url to this site is the main stage. This is where most of the action will occur.

However, some action will take place where it says "Stage Extended." Nemo, Marlin, Bruce and Dory all make appearances on this bit of extended stage. In fact, see the seating area to the right? Dory comes out right behind that seating area, so, unless you're in the seating area above the soundbooth, you will miss Dory's exit.

The area behind the two blackened seating areas and soundbooth also hosts a few other events, including a couple of dueling swordfish.

Now, if it sounds as if I'm saying the best area to sit is behind the soundbooth, I'm not. While the area center and behind the soundbooth is fantastic, sitting in either of the blackened areas allows you to see the performers as they rush up on the extended stage into the crowd. This allows you to see Nemo, Bruce, Dory and Marlin up close and personal.

The one thing about this is that you will sometimes have to crane to see all the action. However, you're also closer to the stage where most of the action happens.

To get a good idea of how the show "feels" when sitting in one of the blackened seating areas, you can watch my three Finding Nemos below. These were taken from the seating area on the right.

Holiday Wishes Fireworks - Christmas Party - Video

Finally got this little video uploaded. This is the full show of the Magic Kingdom's Holiday Wishes as seen during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

 

Enjoy!

 

Haunted Mansion Changes

So, for once in my life, I have refused to be spoiled for changes at Walt Disney World. In the past, I usually find myself gunning for YouTube and waiting to see when someone posts video of the changes (hint: they always do).

My next trip is only a few weeks away and I'm too far gone to give up the game now. However, I just had to look and see if there were any new videos. There appear to be a few and I'll be sure to post my own when I return.

I did find this great two part video on the history of The Haunted Mansion. In the video, they discuss the elevator that descends in the Disneyland attraction. I've heard lots of people talk about this "elevator" at Walt Disney World. Folks, there's no elevator. Disneyland = elevator. Walt Disney World = full on illusion, but no elevator.

Anyway, watch and enjoy: