fantasmic disneyland length

When Dreams Come to Life

As darkness falls, dazzling special effects transform the Rivers of America into an epic canvas for this extravagant live show.

Fast asleep, Mickey dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice. With a wave of his hands, he conducts scenes from Fantasia across enormous screens of water while brilliant sparks burst overhead. Pink elephants, swashbuckling pirates, princesses and more—including memorable scenes from Disney classics such as Aladdin, The Lion King, Tangled and Pirates of the Caribbean —appear on and around the Rivers of America.

When Mickey is suddenly pulled into the Magic Mirror, his dream takes a dark turn. The Evil Queen from Snow White conjures up some of Disney's most dastardly villains! Mickey must use the power of his imagination to vanquish his foes—and save the day.

Featuring a fantastical array of live performers, beloved Disney characters, enhanced special effects, state-of-the-art projections and superb pyrotechnics, this show will wow the entire family.

Know Before You Go

Fantasmic! may not occur daily and showtimes are subject to change. Please check our Entertainment Schedule or the Disneyland app for dates and showtimes.

Theme park reservations and valid admission for the same park on the same day are required for park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. View important information to know before your visit .

Entertainment, experiences and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed.

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Disneyland Fantasmic! 2023 Guide – Viewing Areas, Times, Dining Packages, No Virtual Queue

Disneyland Fantasmic! is the most popular nighttime spectacular at the Disneyland Resort. The show takes place on select nights on Rivers of America in Frontierland.

Fantasmic at Disneyland is popular for a good reason! The show brings together incredible performers, the latest in special effects technology, and the incredible Disney songbook to tell the story of good vs evil inside Mickey Mouse's imagination.

This show is steeped in Disney history, nostalgia, and features fabulous special effects. This Fantasmic! Disneyland guide has information on the nightly showtimes, tips on Fantasmic! viewing areas and map, the pros and cons of the Fantasmic dining packages, and information on the history of this beloved Disneyland show.

This is truly my favorite nighttime entertainment at Disneyland and my top can't miss if the show is performing.

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Disneyland Fantasmic! 2023 Closure

Fantasmic! is paused until at least Labor Day due to a fire that broke out during the performance April 2023. You can read the full update of this fire and all news regarding Fantasmic! return in our article along with Disney's commentary on potential changes coming to the show.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Show Times 2023

Fantasmic! showtimes varies throughout the year depending on the anticipated crowd levels and seasonal events. Just like how fireworks at Disneyland are not shown every night throughout the year, daily showtimes for Fantasmic! vary too depending on the season.

While predicting the schedule isn't always an exact science, you can expect to see daily showtimes or the potential for two nightly shows of Fantasmic! during these periods of the year:

Spring break season (March through mid-April)
Summer (mid-June through mid-August)
Halloween Time (most likely October)
Holiday Season (November through December)

When Fantasmic! is shown twice a night, the first showing of Fantasmic! will run at 9 pm, then the Disneyland Forever! fireworks will be presented, and then the second 10:30 pm show of Fantasmic! will perform.

During less busy times of the year, Disneyland will drop the Fantasmic! showtime to once per night. When Fantasmic! is shown once per night, the showtime is usually at 9PM. You might even see Fantasmic! regulated to weekends only which is something similar to World of Color at Disneyland.

To check the showtime for Fantasmic! during your trip, check the Disneyland daily calendar.

How to Watch Fantasmic! at Disneyland

Fantasmic! takes place on Tom Sawyers Island and looks out over the Rivers of America in Frontierland. The length of the show is 27 minutes and during peak times of year there are two show times at 9PM and 10:30PM. If you're visiting during a peak time of year (summer, holidays, spring break) you can expect nightly showings and mulitple shows. During less crowded times of year (January-February) you might see only one evening performance or in rare cases only showings on the weekends.

Your best bet to plan for watching Fantasmic! is so check the Disney website calender for the entertainment schedule on the day of your visit. You can also easily find this information in the park by asking a cast member or consulting the Disneyland app or park maps.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Viewing Areas

The below viewing area information has been updated now that Fantasmic! has returned. There are two options for seating to watch Fantasmic! at Disneyland: open seating or dining packages.

Based on the first night of the run of the show we have updated the above Fantasmic! viewing area map. The show takes place in and around the Rivers of America. In the graphic above, the Fantasmic! main stage is directly under the “AS” in the title on the graphic though boats and projections can be seen all along the river.

Guests who secure a dining package have the best view of the show directly across from the main stage.

Those with the dining packages have the best view with their area roped off right in front of the main stage. Dining package viewers are also guaranteed to be able to sit during the show which is a nice perk in itself.

The Hungry Bear Fantasmic! Dining Package seating is located on the far left in the viewing area and typically guests will remain standing.
The River Belle Terrace Standard Dining Package is just off center to the left in the viewing area and guests sit on the ground.
The River Belle Terrace also offers a premium dining packag e where guests are seated at 7:15 pm and then remain in their seats through the first 9 pm showing of Fantasmic!
Though the Blue Bayou has not yet announced their dining packages details , we expect that the Blue Bayou Fantasmic! viewing area will return to the center as it was during the previous run of the show. These guests sit on the ground. It has been announced that Blue Bayou will have a dining package when it returns.

We'll go deeper into all of the Fantasmic! viewing area options in the following sections.

General Disneyland Fantasmic! Viewing Tips

A representative from Disneyland Public Relations has confirmed that there will NOT be a virtual queue utilized for “Fantasmic!” when the show returns.

This means that your options for viewing the show are staking out a spot along the Rivers of America or getting a reserved dining package.

Our key tip for avoiding spending a lot of your time waiting for a seat for Fantasmic! is to see the second show of the evening. For that show you'll want to watch the fireworks from the Frontierland area and then join the mass of people moving into the Fantasmic! viewing areas.

For general viewing if you are willing to line up a little bit early, we like to get up close to the fence along the water. If you are arriving later for the first show, line up on the bridge over Pirates of the Caribbean for a nice view of the show.

As you can see in the map shared above, the Disneyland Fantasmic! dining packages take up a large chunk of the prime viewing for the show (the best prime seating for the show is where the Blue Bayou section is listed on the map, directly across from Tom Sawyer's Island).

Here is a view from that prime spot. You'll locate this spot within the section as it is directly in front of the light board. Currently this is part of the River Belle Terrace reserved section most nights.

For guests who want to experience the show without a dining package and are aiming for the second show, you should follow these key steps.

Watch the Disneyland Forever fireworks from directly in front of the River Belle Terrace restaurant. This is in the area along the waterfront between Frontierland and Pirates of the Caribbean. You'll want to be lingering a little ways from this area during the show to be able to move in.
When the fireworks end, move up into the general viewing area closest to center right here. Make sure to ask a Cast Member where you are able to sit for the show as you are doing this. Sometimes the dining package reserved area is not clearly marked and you'll accidentally end up there and have to move.
Hang out for the ~hour or so until the show starts. You'll be fine having members of your group head off to grab a churro or nighttime treat ( use the Disneyland dining mobile order ) while a majority of the group stays here to wait.

As you are thinking about the best spots for Fantasmic!, you'll want to keep in mind that you should be aiming to avoid any obstructions of Tom Sawyer's Island.

At the end of the day, the energy in the area is the most important part of the show and even an obscured view is a nice way to end the day at the parks.

Is there a Disneyland Fantasmic! Virtual Queue?

Previously we had expected that Disneyland would utilize a virtual queue for Fantasmic! in the same way that they are for the World of Color virtual queue process . The virtual queue process is not an extra charge . However, Disneyland is NOT currently going to be offering a Fantasmic! virtual queue .

Disneyland may still introduce a Fantasmic! virtual queue option. Below is information on how a Fantasmic! virtual queue option would function if they were to follow the system utilize for World of Color and the previous Fantasmic! reserved seating option using FastPass.

Disneyland could eventually offer a virtual queue viewing for Fantasmic! which gives guests the opportunity to secure a reserved seating section from the Disneyland app and not have to stake out a seat for Fantasmic! hours before. Basically, your virtual queue would assign you a colored viewing area and this is a way to save your spot for the show in advance. Be prepared that you may be asked to stand when you're in the virtual queue section and there is no guarantee of being able to sit during your Fantasmic! viewing.

We expect that the virtual queue option for Fantasmic! would match World of Color and that you will be able to join a virtual queue from anywhere after you have entered the park for the day at noon when the queue opens for the show. The virtual queue fills all the spots for the first show and then fills all the spots for the second show. You do not have the option to select which show you want to view.

I personally like being able to watch the first show and then the fireworks and then see the Main Street Electrical Parade .

The virtual queues works independently from the Disneyland Genie Plus service so you don't have to worry about this impacting any of your Lightning Lane selections.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Packages

You can purchase Fantasmic! dining packages for the Blue Bayou Restaurant, the River Belle Terrace, and at the Hungry Bear Restaurant.

Blue Bayou Fantasmic! Restaurant Dining Package

The Blue Bayou Restaurant is one of the park’s most popular dining experiences. The Blue Bayou is an indoor, upscale restaurant with a view of Pirates of the Caribbean. Their Monte Cristo sandwich is a crowd favorite! This package includes a 3-course meal, which has a starter, entrée, and dessert.

This package includes admission to the reserved viewing area for a designated performance of Fantasmic! that night. Please note that the viewing area is separate from the restaurant location. Blue Bayou guests receive the best viewing location: dead center in front of the show. If you want the best seats, make sure to arrive one hour prior to the time on your return ticket for Fantasmic!

Price: Lunch is $62 per adult and $29 per child (ages 3 to 9) and dinner is $72 per adult and $29 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax and gratuity not included.
Reserved seating at Blue Bayou Restaurant begins daily at 11:30 AM for lunch and 4:00 PM for dinner.

Blue Bayou cushion for Fanstasmic!

Blue Bayou dining guests are also the only guests guaranteed to be able to sit down during the show. The Blue Bayou dining package comes with cushions for guests to sit on during the performance: one per person, per meal purchased.

Check out our most recent review here.

River Belle Terrace Fantasmic! Dining Package

The River Belle Terrace enjoys a picturesque view of the Rivers of America. Dining options include classic American dishes like fried chicken, baked beans, and more with a Southern flair. Each dining package includes a 3-course dinner (starter, entrée and dessert). The River Belle Terrace package includes admission to the reserved viewing area for a designated performance of Fantasmic! that night. The viewing area is separate from the restaurant location.

Price: Lunch $50 per adult; $30 per child (ages 3 to 9). Dinner is $50 per adult and $30 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax and gratuity not included.
Guests can upgrade to premium 7:15PM seating for an additional $25 per adult and $15 per child (ages 3 to 9) and enjoy their meal as well as the first performance of Fantasmic! from their seat on the outdoor patio.

The River Belle Terrace dining package guests sit adjacent to the Blue Bayou dining packages which allows for a great view of the show. River Belle Terrace dining package guests are typically allowed to sit during the performance. If you want the best seats, make sure to arrive one hour prior to the time on your return ticket for Fantasmic!

Check out our most recent review of the dining package with the upgraded seating!

Fantasmic! On the Go Package at Hungry Bear Restaurant

There is also a Fantasmic! On the Go Package at the Hungry Bear Restaurant in Critter Country. Guests can choose one of 4 entrees from a menu created especially for this event. Options include cedar salt-roasted sustainable salmon, barbecue chicken, blackberry barbecue pork riblets or a mushroom and leek frittata. All dishes are served with a medley of wild rice and cranberry-apricot grains as well as kale and garbanzo bean salad. Guests can dine at any of the restaurant's tables or take their meal to go.

Price: The cost for this package is $30 per adult and $25 per child (ages 3 to 9); tax is not included.
Reservations for meal pick-up times are normally available from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM. However, times may vary based on the Fantasmic! schedule.
Reservations made for 3:00 PM through 6:45 PM will receive a voucher that permits entry into the reserved viewing area for the first performance of Fantasmic! that evening.
Reservations from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM will receive a voucher permitting entry into the reserved viewing area for that night's second show.

When picking up their meal at Hungry Bear Restaurant, guests will receive a voucher that allows entry to the reserved viewing area for that evening's performance of Fantasmic! Hungry Bear's reserved viewing is sandwiched on both sides of the River Belle Terrace and Blue Bayou's reserved dining areas. Keep in mind you will likely be asked to stand in this viewing area. If you want the best seats, make sure to arrive one hour prior to the time on your return ticket for Fantasmic!

Guests with Disabilities Fantasmic! Viewing

Disneyland strives to accommodate all guests and this includes those with disabilities. There is a special area between the River Belle Terrace dining section and the general viewing area that is reserved for guests with disabilities. This section is typically reserved for those in wheelchairs and ECVs along with their families.

For dining packages, guests in wheelchairs or ECVs are seated near the back of the section so they're not blocking the view of other guests so these areas are all seated.

Pro Tips for Fantasmic! at Disneyland

The first viewing of Fantasmic will always be the most crowded so similar to the advice we give for fireworks, we recommend watching the later showing if you don't plan on purchasing a dining package. If you have your heart set on the dining package experience, the first show is the best choice since the dining package viewing areas can often be combined for the second showing making your view a bit more crowded.
If you are at the first show time of Fantasmic! and fireworks are scheduled that night, then stay where you are to watch the Rivers of America put on a magical show with projections that play against the screens of water in sync with the fireworks show.
Be aware that Fantasmic! may be scary for small children. The show can get bright, loud, and a bit scary at times.
Blue Bayou is currently the only dining package that offers guests a complimentary seat cushion.
Since the show takes place on water, guests in the very front may get wet.
The only option for chair viewing is the upgraded package for River Belle Terrace. All other options, dining packages included, only offer seating on the ground.
All non-dining package viewers should be prepared to stand throughout the show.
Always arrive early to the viewing areas- even if cast members aren't allowing guests to line up yet, you will see people hovering about waiting to jump in line when they do.

History of Fantasmic! at Disneyland

Disneyland's Fantasmic! debuted in 1992 and has been a beloved part of Disneyland entertainment ever since.

Fantasmic! includes fireworks, live performers, water effects, pyrotechnics, music, watercrafts, decorated rafts, animatronics, and projections! When Fantasmic! first debuted it was the first of its kind to incorporate so many different elements into one performance. The addition of Fantasmic! to Rivers of America meant that some reworkings of Disneyland had to take place including terracing the walkways to accommodate viewing and changing the front section of Tom Sawyer Island (now named The Pirate’s Lair) with the goal that it could act as a stage for most of the show's live action.

Fantasmic! was well received and now has regular showings more than 20 years later at Disneyland in the Disneyland Resort, Disney's Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World and Tokyo DisneySea in Tokyo Disney Resort.

Fantasmic! Synopsis

I never recommend watching YouTube videos or reading a synoposis for any entertainment or ride you're experiencing for the first time. The surprise is half the fun! But since Fantasmic! does have moments that might startle small children, it might be helpful to know what the show will feature so you can be prepared.

Since its debut in 1992, “Fantasmic!” has performed nearly 11,000 shows at Disneyland and has received numerous enhancements such as the fire-breathing Maleficent dragon in 2009 and the addition of new songs from Aladdin, Tangled, and more in 2017. We can't wait to see this beloved nighttime spectacular return to Disneyland!

Warning: synospis and video below feature spoilers, scroll past if you'd like to be surprised!

Fantasmic! starts with the imagination of Mickey Mouse set within the water of Rivers of America where he transforms into Sorcerer Mickey and takes us on a trip to some of our favorite Disney movies like Fantasia , Aladdin , The Lion King , Tangled , and Pirates of the Caribbean – featured on state of the art water screens.

Fantasmic! also features beautiful live action scenes such as Aladdin and Jasmine delighting guests on their musical carpet ride, the Sailing Ship Columbia with action packed moments from Pirates of the Caribbean, rafts lit up with lights and well adored Disney princesses including Belle, Rapunzel, and Ariel.

The show includes the classic good vs. evil struggle when Mickey is pulled through the magic mirror and enters a world of Disney's most famous villains. The show stopping villain here is none other than Maleficent as Mickey gears up to fight the 45-foot dragon.

Of course, with all things Disney, the good prevails. In an epic finale, the Mark Twain Riverboat paddles its way along the river dotted with every Disney character imaginable. Words alone cannot materialize the images all the fascinating water effects, lasers, pyrotechnics, fireworks, and live action scenes Fantasmic! brings to life.

For a literal play-by-play of the show itself, check out this Wikipedia article.

Or if you prefer to watch it all play out on video, watch the video below!

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Lindsay is a college English instructor and has years of writing experience through various nonprofits, charities, newspapers, and online magazines. As the content director of Mickey Visit, she oversees article content and leads our fantastic team of writers to meet guest vacation needs. You can still find her writing weekly content to help make your Disney Parks trip fantastic here on Mickey Visit and Disney Dose- you can also view her recently featured posts on Disney Parks travel on Visit Anaheim, Nerd Wallet and SFGate. Lindsay comes from a dedicated Disney family and enjoys taking her son to the Disney parks as often as possible.

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10 comments add your comment

What about the Premium Dining Packages at the River Belle? Do those allow you to just continue sitting at your table to watch the show?

Genie, you are correct- the premium Riverbelle Fantasmic! dining package allows you to remain at your seat while you watch the show from the restaurant patio. If you book the standard Riverbelle Fantasmic! package then you are seated by the the water front.

How do you get premium Riverbelle fantasmic dining packages it seems to be sold out within seconds unless Im doing it wrong

Hi Kathy, definitely follow our tips for getting dining reservations . There are two tools shared there that will send you an alert when there are reservations available.

No space for das pass in the area for disabilities? Why?

Is this the same for other shows?

There is no specific DAS reserved area for nighttime spectaculars or parades. There is a wheelchair/scooter accessible area provided but it’s first come, first serve and once it’s full they can’t allow anymore guests.

Thanks for your posts. You’ve given a lot of tips and information that I wouldn’t have thought which have been a great in help in planning our trip. Any suggestions on getting reservations at River Belle Terrace? I literally spent an entire day starting at 3 am trying to get a reservation and got nothing. Any help would be great! And the Disneyland dine number tells you you have to make reservations online or on the app.

Hi Jen, definitely follow our tips for getting dining reservations . There are two tools shared there where you can get notifications when reservations are available.

Currently unable to make Fantasmic dining reservations for January 2023. Called Disney yesterday and they confirmed that they could not see it either and that they are being flooded with calls asking the same question but the only answer they could give was “I don’t know.” Has anyone heard anything different?

I know it is currently closed until at least Labor Day, but when does Fantasmic normally run? We are thinking of going mid September…and just wondering if in September it is normally on weekends only or also on weekdays. Thanks

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OPENING TIMELINE Revealed for Updated Fantasmic! in Disneyland

Disney entertainment is second to none — on the big screen and in the parks.

But lately, an iconic show has been missing from Disneyland. Fantasmic! suffered a fire-related incident back in April , and the show has been suspended since . Now, Disney has announced details on when we may be able to see the show once again!

Disneyland has announced that Fantasmic! will be returning to the park sometime in spring 2024 — but no concrete dates have been announced just yet.

Not only that, but when the show returns it will be different. The show will not include the Maleficent dragon figure that was the source of the fire, but will include “new special effects and a thrilling new battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent.”

Disney shared that Cast Members and performers have been informed of the downtime and will be trained on other opportunities.

In the meantime, you can catch nightly entertainment on the Rivers of America, Queenie and the Jambalaya Jazz Band in New Orleans Square, and more.

Disney’s official statement reads, “Our goal is to always deliver the best possible show for our guests. With that in mind, we are planning the return of “Fantasmic!” with exciting new magic in spring 2024. As teams continue work on the show, we have launched nightly entertainment on the Rivers of America this summer and we are working on even more exciting entertainment offerings for our guests later this year.”

We’ll be sure to keep you updated with more Fantasmic! news, so stay tuned to AllEars for more.

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Have you seen Fantasmic!? Let us know in the comments.

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Fantasmic! at Disneyland – Everything You Need to Know

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Updated January 18, 2023

Fantasmic! is an old school Disneyland gem! Definitely consider it for your visit.

As with any big show at Disneyland, good planning will ensure you have a good experience.

I’ve compiled this information from what Disney has released to us, what other dining packages typically include and specifically what I know from the dining experiences offered prior to Covid.

In this article

Current Showtimes

First, check this link to see if Fantasmic! is showing during your dates.

Depending on when you visit, Fantasmic! will show every day of the week or on weekends only. Weekends include Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Disneyland.

When Fantasmic! is running, most days include 9:00pm and 10:30pm shows, but confirm before your visit.

Basic Scoop

Fantasmic! is a very popular show that debuted in 1992 as an attempt to pull crowds over into the space that borders the Rivers of America. The show includes both water and pyrotechnics and can be scary for little ones. There are plenty of children at the show. But, if you have kids who scare easily, I recommend watching videos on YouTube prior to visiting. The basic synopsis involves good vs evil. Spoiler alert: Good always wins.

The show was reimagined in July of 2017 with new scenes and an altered story line. It still consists of a combination of part of the show on Tom Sawyer Island and the rest on water craft, including The Sailing Ship Columbia, Mark Twain Riverboat and small rafts.

It typically lasts around 25 minutes. Guests will fill the viewing area that surrounds the Rivers of America to watch the show.

Showtimes for each day vary. Visit the Disneyland site to see what timing is available for the days you will be at the parks. Adjust the calendar at this link for your visit. Most days will include two shows. Those are at 9:00pm and 10:30pm.

As with other Disney shows, the earlier times are always more crowded.

I like both shows for different reasons. The earlier one may be more crowded, but it’s so convenient to watch Fantasmic! and then not have to move to watch the fireworks (typically at 9:30pm each evening). Love that. However, if you must see fireworks on Main and/or with a castle view, you can grab a spot there fairly close to show time (for fireworks at 9:30pm) and then walk over to see the 10:30pm Fantasmic! with less of a crowd. After fireworks, there is a mass exodus. Cast members work hard to direct people through each land and out of the park and by 10:30pm there is a noticeable difference in the quantity of people there.

Let’s now take a closer look at the three options for Fantasmic! viewing.

Booking a Dining Package

As with other big shows at the park, Fantasmic! offers dining packages that give you a premiere spot for viewing the show. In most cases, you will dine at the restaurant hosting the dining package and then show up later to watch the show with everyone else stationed around the Rivers of America. There is one exception – we’ll cover that in a second.

Dining packages are always popular at Disneyland and with the return of Fantasmic!, these are in high demand. Do not hesitate to book your package now. If you change your mind on using it, cancel within 24 hours of your dining time so that your credit card on file is not charged the $10 per person cancellation penalty. These packages do not requirement pre-payment. All you have to do now is make the reservation. The app does not allow you to make these reservations. You must use the Disneyland site or call Disney directly at (714) 781-DINE (3463) between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM daily (Pacific Time) to book.

Magic Key and Disney Visa discounts apply to all dining packages, but the two cannot be used together.

Magic Key and Disney Visa discounts apply to all dining packages, but the discount won’t apply to the upgraded portion of your bill. For example, if you booked the Upgraded River Belle Terrace package at 8pm, you will receive your discount on the $45 per person portion, but not the $15 upgrade per person.

Dining packages can be booked 60 days out from the day you plan to dine at Disneyland.

Disneyland is super accommodating with food allergies. If you have specific needs, share those when you book online in the section provided. If you call in to book, let the cast member helping you know your needs. Then, when you check in at your dining time, reiterate those details again.

Each dining package includes favorites from the restaurant’s menu and sometimes a few dishes not available during regular dining. Exceptions/substitutions/changes, etc….from the Fantasmic! menu to the normal one are not allowed. You may only choose from the Fantasmic! menu.

The basic game plan includes enjoying your meal and then once you pay your bill, you will receive a “FASTPASS” (or return voucher) that will allow you entrance into the viewing section that coordinates with where you dined. Sometimes, they’re referred to as Return Tickets or Return Vouchers. But, they look just like the paper FASTPASS Reminders.

With any of the three dining package options, I recommend arriving an hour prior to showtime. The FASTPASS that you receive after paying your bill will advise showing up 30 minutes prior. And, lines will likely not be allowed to form until that time. But, with the popularity of this show, you don’t want to miss out on what you paid for – good viewing. Show up to the viewing area an hour early and just hang out. Wait for the line to form and jump in it as soon as cast members allow.

For the later show, be prepared to find all three dining option guests mixed into the same viewing area. This feels a little frustrating since they section off the earlier show and allow those who paid for Blue Bayou to have the center view. I attended the later show when I reviewed the Blue Bayou package and when I arrived, everyone was sitting together. I asked a cast member and he confirmed that the later show mixes everyone. With this in mind, if you want a great view at a low cost, consider the Hungry Bear package for the late show.

The three dining package options include:

Blue Bayou Dining Package

For a detailed review from a previous experience, visit this link .

To book this package, visit this link .

Some notes:

Blue Bayou is located in New Orleans Square, to the right of the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction exit. It is the premiere dining package and usually the most sought after.
Blue Bayou has indoor seating only, but you’ll feel like you’re outdoors in some ways because of the restaurant’s design. This dining option is located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction and is old school Disney fabulous. You’ll see the boats of the attraction float by during your meal.
If you’re interested in a water-side table (there are only about 15 tables located right next to the water), go by the reservation podium located at the front of the restaurant about 30 minutes prior to your reservation time and ask if you could please sit water-side. Your wait may be a little longer than expected, but many guests think this is an essential part of dining at Blue Bayou.
Viewing for Blue Bayou is typically dead-center, front row. There will be an iron railing in front of you, but this has never bothered me.

River Belle Terrace Dining Package

For a detailed review from my experience, visit this link.

To book this page, visit this link .

Reservations for River Belle Terrace start each day at 4:00pm. When you book – online or on the phone directly with Disney – you will learn which show your dining time is assigned to. The FASTPASS that you receive that allows you into your viewing location will state this show time, too. You may not attend a show other than the one your FASTPASS assigns you to.
An upgrade to River Belle’s dining package is available for $25 per person, adult or child. To upgrade your experience, you must call (714) 781-DINE or (714) 781-3463 between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM Pacific Time daily. In order to upgrade, you must dine at 8:00pm. With that dining time and a confirmed upgrade, you can enjoy dinner and then stay at your seat to watch the first performance of Fantasmic! – which begins at 9:00pm – from the outside patio (where you’ll be seated). With this upgrade, you will enjoy a charging station at your table, a lanyard, and continued drink service through the show.
River Belle Terrace is located in Frontierland, across from the Rivers of America. It is typically considered 2nd in line to Blue Bayou as far as food goes, but I’m a huge fan of this place. It reopened with a new menu in February of 2016 after Big Thunder BBQ closed down for Star Wars Land. While it isn’t a total mimic of what Big Thunder offered, the menu transitioned to include more grown up, modern BBQ selections and I’ve really enjoyed them.
River Belle has both indoor and outdoor seating. I’ve dined in each and they’re both lovely. There is far more outdoor seating compared to indoor, so be prepared for a possibly longer wait if you want to dine indoors.
River Belle’s viewing section is next to Blue Bayou, so it’s not dead center, but it’s still really good. It will go up to the railing, so front row is possible, just like Blue Bayou. You will be able to sit on the ground in this section, unlike guests with FASTPASSES and those in standby.

Hungry Bear Grab-n-Go Dining Package

For a detailed review of this dining package, visit this link .

Reservations for Hungry Bear Restaurant start each day at 3:00pm. When you book – online or on the phone directly with Disney – you will learn which show your dining time is assigned to. The FASTPASS that you receive that allows you into your viewing location will state this show time, too. You may not attend a show other than the one your FASTPASS assigns you to. (From what I can tell, all Hungry Bear dining package guests are assigned to the first show each evening.)
Hungry Bear is a casual restaurant located in Critter Country, just across from where you grab FASTPASSES for Splash Mountain and to the right of The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
Unlike Blue Bayou and River Belle Terrace dining packages, you do not have to dine on location. You may simply pick up your food and take it elsewhere to enjoy or you may use one of the tables at the restaurant. All seating is outdoors, in a covered patio overlooking the Rivers of America.
Upon arrival, you will pay your bill and receive your meals packaged up to go (or stay). The restaurant provides everything you need – boxed meals, cutlery, napkins, etc. At this time, you will also receive your FASTPASSES granting entry into the Hungry Bear viewing section for Fantasmic!
The viewing section for Hungry Bear is next to Blue Bayou, which is dead center. If enough guests buy this package, you may have to stand for the show. (Blue Bayou and River Belle Terrace dining package guests are guaranteed the option to sit on the ground.) I have yet to see this section full enough to enforce the standing rule. So, for the price you pay, you’re getting an excellent view.

Standby sections aren’t bad! Don’t panic if you don’t book a dining package for this show.

There are two standby sections that I have had great luck with over the years. If you are using the standby option, consider:

The bridge that goes above the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction: A rope is set up on the side of the bridge facing the water. The rope keeps guests snug in that area and out of the way of traffic, as guests use this bridge to exit the Frontierland/New Orleans Square area to get to Adventureland. I’m usually able to slide in there to watch the show.
There are several little pockets of space behind an iron guard rail in between the Cafe Orleans patio and the French Market. Many guests think this is a walk way area and don’t stop to grab a spot. Rest assured, if you’re in a path for guests, cast members will alert you to keep moving. These are great last minute options to watch the show.

Guests with Disabilities

There is a section next to the River Belle Terrace dining section for guests with disabilities. A cast member will escort you to the section for guests with disabilities. There are no chairs provided. This section is typically filled with guests in wheelchairs and ECVs along with their family/friends.

Within each dining package section, guests in wheelchairs or ECVs are stationed near the back of the section so that they’re not blocking other guests’ views since they’ll be sitting on the ground. Feel free to enjoy any of the dining packages and know you can sit with everyone in your party within in the dining package sections noted on the map below.

Viewing Sections

The map, above, shows the general idea, based on what previous years included. This is a VERY ROUGH idea of where each section will be located. I’ll update the map as information becomes available.

There is no current option for guests to sit in a chair at Fantasmic! If this is a deal breaker for you, I recommend booking the River Belle Terrace 8:00pm option with the upgrade so that you can stay in your seat to watch.
If your child won’t eat any of the options on the child’s menu (when the menus are available), you may pay for an adult dining package and allow him or her to order from it. But, children cannot order from it without paying the adult pricing.
As with all restaurants at the Disneyland Resort, these dining package options will do their best to accommodate guests with food allergies or special diets. When you book your reservation, make clear notes in the comments section with your needs. If you book by phone, share your needs with the cast member you speak to. Upon arrival, reiterate what your needs are to the cast member you’re checking in with. Your notes will already be attached to your reservation, but I recommend calling attention to them when you arrive.
A Disability Section should be available in the Fantasmic! viewing area. I’ll share more details on that as soon as I find them and will also update my post on Disabilities at Disneyland .
This show can be surprisingly scary for many children. It’s main theme is “good vs evil” and “good” wins, but the show, as a whole, is shocking at times. I encourage you to watch the video, below, if you are concerned at all that your child could be scared.

As always, please leave me a comment or email me with any questions or concerns. Happy to help you!

A First Timer’s Guide to Disneyland

Walt Disney World Planning

Disneyland Fantasmic! Guide 2023: Show Times, Dining Packages, Seating Tips

Disneyland Fantasmic! is the best nighttime show at the Disneyland Resort currently running. Fantasmic! takes place in Frontierland and can be viewed via reserved seating from a dining package or general standby viewing.

In 2023, Fantasmic! turned 30 years old. This incredible nighttime spectacular has been updated and reshaped throughout the years, but the general premise of good vs evil battling it out to the same catchy Fantasmic! tune in Disneyland has remained.

In this guide to Disneyland Fantasmic!, we'll share info on reserved seating and dining packages, the typical nightly schedule and showtimes, tips for getting good seats for the show if you choose not to buy a dining package, and a short history of Fantasmic! at Disneyland.

In this article:

Fantasmic! at Disneyland 2023 Show Times

Currently the Disneyland entertainment schedule indicates that Fantasmic! will perform twice nightly at 9 pm and 10:30 pm.

During off seasons, Fantasmic! show times vary so check the Disney app for the most up-to-date schedule.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Viewing Options

The Fantasmic! show takes place along the Rivers of America in Frontierland and New Orleans Square. The walkways along the river area are roped off leading up to the show to create the Fantasmic! viewing area. The viewing area is really just slightly sloped concrete and brick area so you won't have a proper seat for the show. Part of the magic of this show is that during the day you would never know that as dusk settles the entire area is turned into a high tech performance theater – light towers emerge from the concrete and Tom Sawyer's Island is prepped to become the home of massive set pieces and props.

Prior to each show, two viewing sections are roped off: dining packages viewing and standby viewing. The dining packages have the best viewing placed right in front of the stage along the Rivers of America. Dining package viewers and the closest guests siting in standby will sit for the show. Guests in standby sections further back will remain standing.

Of course this may change depending on crowds so plan accordingly. Ask a Cast Members what is asked of you when you check in!

The standby viewing is first come first serve. Some guests will begin to line up up to 2 hrs before the show in hopes to securing a premium spot. There are designated standby viewing spaces throughout the area including directly in front of Pirates of the Caribbean (the most prime standby general viewing), on the bridge in front of Pirates of the Caribbean, on the upper tiers in front of New Orleans Square, and off center closer to the water. There are three mist screens that play the same video for the show facing center and left and right.

Even for the dining packages, you'll want to arrive earlier than the stated time on the paper reserved seating card so that you can secure a prime spot.

Although you do not need a dining package voucher to view Fantasmic!, standby areas fill up fast and do not guarantee you a place to view. For this reason, we recommend you consider watching the second showing of Fantamsic! of the night as that show has less time for guests to line up and stake out a spot.

You'll want to be in the area for the Disneyland fireworks and then move to secure a spot right as guests from the first show are exiting the viewing areas. The area is hectic and difficult to understand. You will receive conflicting information from Cast Members. During a recent trip we were able to hop into what seemed like a reserved seating area at the last minute because a Cast Member waved us in as we were walking just a short time before the show began. All that said, there isn't much method to the madness beyond our key tips of aiming for the second show or securing a dining package.

When waiting for the second showing of Fantastic! you should watch the Disneyland Forever fireworks from the area between Frontierland and New Orleans Square directly in front of the River Belle Terrace. This is closest to that prime standby viewing that I mentioned above. When the fireworks end, move forward into the seating area. Be sure to check with the crowd control Cast Members to avoid standing in an area that will be cleared for reserved dining package seating.

The better and more directly you can see Tom Sawyer's Island the better your experience watching the show will be. Here's the view from the most prime seat in the house within the dining package area for illustration. You'll locate this view within the reserved seating area by finding a manhole cover directly in front of the director's soundboard.

Is there a Disneyland Fantasmic! Virtual Queue for reserved seating?

Unlike the World of Color which offers guests the ability to secure reserved seating through a virtual queue at the middle of the day via the Disneyland app, Fantasmic! will not be offering a virtual queue for guests. For the World of Color show, the virtual queue fills the first show of the evening and then fills the second show of the evening.

Guests have the option of either purchasing a dining package for reserved seating or lining up to secure general guest viewing.

Disney has not ruled out completely that virtual queues will be used in the future. A Disneyland rep simply shared that there will be no Disneyland virtual queue for Fantasmic! at this time.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Packages – Times, Restaurants, Info

Fantasmic! dining packages provide a pre-fix meal and reserved seating for Fantasmic! along the Rivers of America. Currently the restaurants offering these reserved seating packages are the River Belle Terrace and Hungry Bear Restaurant.

There is typically also a Blue Bayou Fantasmic! dining package, but that restaurant is still in the process of reopening and the Fantasmic! dining package has not yet returned. We expect that it will return sometime this summer.

Let's dive into the bellow dining packages for info how you can secure reserved seating for the shows. Keep in mind that typically you are more paying for the seat than for the food. The food quality ranges by restaurant.

The Blue Bayou

The Blue Bayou Disneyland Fantasmic! dining package offers guests a 3-course meal (starter, entrée, and dessert), an 18 x 18 foam cushion to sit on, and a voucher for a designated viewing of Fantasmic! Each guest in your party must purchase a dining package to receive a voucher. Having purchased this package in the past, I must say that it offers the best viewing of Fantastic! and is well worth the money spent!

Reserved seating at Blue Bayou Restaurant begins daily at 11:30am for lunch and 4:00pm for dinner. Lunch is $59 per adult; $29 per child (ages 3 to 9) – tax and gratuity not included. Dinner is $69 per adult and $29 per child (ages 3 to 9) – tax and gratuity not included.The higher price you pay with this package gets you the best viewing, right in front of the stage.

River Belle Terrace Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Package

The River Belle Terrace Fantasmic! package includes a 3-course dinner (starter, entrée, and dessert) and reserved seating begins daily at 4:00pm. Dinner is $50 per adult and $30 per child (ages 3 to 9) – tax and gratuity not included.

Another great option with the River Belle Terrace option is the opportunity to upgrade to premium 8:00pm seating for an additional $25 per adult and $15 per child (ages 3 to 9). Guests can enjoy their meal as well as the first performance of Fantasmic! from their seat on the outdoor patio! We don't like this option as much as your view will be partially obstructed and would recommend watching from the closer water viewing area.

Fantasmic! On The Go Package at Hungry Bear Restaurant

If you are short on time, but would still like to take advantage of a Fantasmic! dining package, then simply reserve a dining package from the Hungry Bear Restaurant. Order online or by phone prior to your Disneyland Park visit.

You have the choice between 4 entrees from a menu created especially for this event – cedar salt-roasted sustainable salmon, barbecue chicken, blackberry barbecue pork riblets, or mushroom and leek frittata. All dishes are served with wild rice and cranberry-apricot grains as well as kale and garbanzo bean salad. The cost is $30 per adult and $25 per child.

Fantasmic! Dining Package Details

As with all Fantasmic! dining packages, all guests in each party must purchase a meal in order to receive a voucher. Viewing, with the exception of the River Belle Terrace upgrade, are located outside the restaurants.

The prime viewing areas for Fantasmic! are reserved for these dining packages. Once you are in the viewing areas you'll want to either be up against the railing in the first row or a couple of rows back. We personally choose to sit back a couple of rows to be able to see the entire show more clearly rather than having our faces pressed up against the metal grate. You won't want to sit between the front row and back row as then you'll end up with the top of railing blocking your view.

Some restaurants may allow some minor food substitutions at an additional cost, however, there is no guarantee this may be allowed.

Reservations are highly recommended due to the popularity of the packages. For dinner reservations, book early in the evening (about 2 to 2 1/2 hours before show time) to allow plenty of time to eat your meal. Factor in extra time for any delays. Reserve online up to 60 days before your Disney vacation from the Disneyland app.

Tips for Experiencing Fantasmic!

Each Fantasmic! show comes with its own unique advantages. The first viewing is always the most crowded; however, this is the show time that you are guaranteed to be seated in your own dining package reserved seating area. During the second show time, sometimes the crowds lighten up, which is great since it is not so crowded, however, sometimes dining package seatings for this show time are combined.
If you are at the first show time of Fantasmic! and fireworks are scheduled that night, then stay where you are to watch the Rivers of America put on a magical show with projections that play against the screens of water in sync with the fireworks show. Your view of the fireworks may be obscured, however, this is still a great place to be since chances are you may not make it over to the front of the castle to view the fireworks show.
Be aware that Fantasmic! may be scary for little ones. The show can get bright, loud, and a bit scary at times.
Blue Bayou is currently the only dining package that offers guests a complimentary seat cushion. No worries! Many gift shops around the Park have them to purchase!
Since the show takes place on water, guests in front may get wet.
Keep your Fantasmic! Fastpass in a safe place where you will not lose it because they are not replaceable!
We prefer to view the show from a couple rows back in the first section instead of right up against the bars. Some call this Fantasmic! jail as it looks like you're looking out of a jail cell while viewing the show so directly up front.
Know before you go! Do your research before your Disney vacation to ensure most of these fabulous deals are still available!

DAS Pass Fantasmic! – Guests With Disabilities

Guests with disabilities should not rely solely on the viewing area Disney designates for guests with disabilities. This area, near the Haunted Mansion, does not provide the best view of Fantasmic! Instead, guests with disabilities should obtain a dining package voucher and arrive at least an hour before the show starts. Cast Members will assist guests with disabilities and their family on where to go in their designated area.

There is no specific DAS pass offering for Fantasmic! beyond the Cast Members who will be able to assist you with seating.

Brief History of Fantasmic! at Disneyland

In 1992, Disneyland's entertainment department was given the challenge to come up with a new nighttime spectacular, utilizing the Rivers of America. The result was Fantasmic!.

The show includes: fireworks, live performers, water effects, pyrotechnics, music, a few watercrafts, decorated rafts and projections onto extensive mist screens emphasizing reworked Disney animation. It was one of the first of its kind to incorporate all the elements into one amazing performance.

A significant part of the area around the Rivers of America was required to be revamped, including terracing the walkways to accommodate viewing and changing the front section of Tom Sawyer Island with the goal that it could act as a stage for most of the show's live action.

The show was originally set to run for 5 years. Due to the popularity with the resort’s guests, the show has been revamped many times over the years and had the latest technology added in. Five years ago the show went through a large redesign that led to the inclusion of newer characters including Rapunzel and Flynn Rider from Tangled and Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean.

Versions of the show have also been performed at Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World and Tokyo DisneySea at the Tokyo Disney Resort. Fantasmic! at Tokyo DisneySea has been retired and will be replaced with a new nighttime spectacular. During a recent press day at the resort we met a creative headed to Tokyo to continue work on the new show. How exciting!

Below is a little more on the details of Fantasmic! at the Disneyland Resort in California.

Fantasmic! Show Overview, Scary For Kids?

Along the shores of Tom Sawyers Island, within the waters of the Rivers of America, Mickey Mouse creates a spectacular show using his brilliant imagination. Welcome to, Fantasmic! – Mickey transforms into Sorcerer Mickey where he conjures up clips from some favorite Disney movies – Fantasia , Aladdin , The Lion King , Tangled , and Pirates of the Caribbean – all on streaming screens of water.

Live action scenes come alive with such characters as Aladdin and Jasmine emerging from the fog to delight guests with their musical carpet ride; the Sailing Ship Columbia sails by with a ghost crew of pirates right out of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean ; and rafts adorned with colorful lights float down the river carrying such princesses as Beauty dancing with Beast, Rapunzel with her prince, Flynn Rider, and Ariel with her love, Eric.

Where there is good, there is always a whole lot of bad. That is true at Disneyland in Fantastic! as well. When Mickey is pulled through the magic mirror, things turn dark. Enter a fantastic show featuring some of Disney’s most infamous villains. Mickey is forced to fight an angry 45-foot dragon, which is the highlight of this amazing show. Of course, with all things Disney, the good prevails. In an epic finale, the Mark Twain Riverboat paddles its way along the river dotted with every Disney character imaginable.

Words alone cannot materialize the images all the fascinating water effects, lasers, pyrotechnics, fireworks, and live action scenes Fantasmic! brings to life.

For a literal play-by-play of the show itself (Note: SPOILERS!), check out this Wikipedia article.

Or, the easier approach: Check out the video below!

Advice for Non-Fantasmic! Viewers – RIDE ON!

If you are not planning on viewing Fantasmic! or have already seen this magical one-of-a-kind show, the best advice I have is to take advantage of this time to experience attractions with a lower wait time throughout Disneyland Park.

Currently there are three nighttime spectaculars playing in Disneyland Park on its own (not even including World of Color in Disney California Adventure). Once the first showing of the Main Street Electrical Parade begins at 8:45 pm, there is an entire block of time occupying a large amount of guests in the parks which will lead to lower wait times. This is a perfect argument for having a three day or longer ticket to the parks. This way you can watch the Disneyland shows one night, World of Color the next, and finally end with low wait times during the shows.

During the Fantasmic! showings during our most recent trip we saw Star Tours with a 10 minute wait, Space Mountain at 45 mins, Rise of the Resistance with a 40 minute wait (!), and Big Thunder Mountain at a 25 min wait during these shows. A great time to ride!

If you decide to experiences attractions in the Frontierland area, be aware of the large crowds around Fantasmic! and that there will be intense guest control efforts to keep you moving through the area. We typically try to avoid the area unless we are walking directly to an attraction like the Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean.

Did we miss something amazing? Share your tips & tricks below and on our Facebook page.

If you enjoyed this article, please be sure to “like” and “share!” For more tips, photos, and Disneyland secrets, sign up for our Disney weekly newsletter. Sign up here .

You can plan more of your Disneyland vacation with our other helpful guides:

Discount Disneyland Tickets
When to Visit Disneyland
Disneyland Parades Guide: Times and Viewing Guide
Disneyland in October
Walt Disney World Genie Plus Tips and Tricks
Oogie Boogie Bash Disneyland – Dates and What You Need to Know

11 Fascinating Secrets of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean Ride

Top 15 Disneyland Dining Tips And Tricks

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2 comments add your comment

Chairs? What means this chairs? When we did a Blue Bayou dinner for Fantasmic they sat us on the ground in front of the river. I would have sat there! Dad needed one! 77 yr old man & expected him to sit on hard cement for two hours!

Where can we call for reservation? I can’t see it on the disney website, only the dining options appear.

How to Have a Fantastic Disneyland Experience at Fantasmic!

Jeremy Wong / Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Did you ever have one of those dreams—the ones where all kinds of random bits of your life get mixed up together? The script for Fantasmic!—starring Mickey Mouse—is a bit like that. Scenes are borrowed from Disney films and brought to life with live actors, water effects, fire, boats, and rafts.

It all starts when sorcerer's apprentice Mickey Mouse goes to sleep. His overwrought dream conjures up pink elephants, enormous puppets, princesses, and more. The fantasies reach their apex when a 45-foot-tall dragon five times Mickey's size appears. As the fire-breathing monster meets its end, the show also ends with fireworks.

Fantasmic! at Disneyland

How often Fantasmic! happens depends on the season. It may run twice a night during the busy summer season, but only on weekends at other times of the year.

For even more fun while watching, you can buy glowing mouse ears that change colors to complement the show and light up as Mickey faces off the Evil Queen and other products at many Disney gift shops.

What's New

The new show uses video mapping technology to bring new life to the mist screens and fireworks, making it brighter more modern-looking like its sister show World of Color in California Adventure. Most casual viewers will notice few changes, but hardcore fans may find things a little more traumatic, especially the fact that Peter Pan and his pals have been replaced by Jack Sparrow and company on the Sailing Ship Columbia. But maybe the new flying carpet special effect will make up for it.

What You Need to Know

Rating: ★★★★
Location: Rivers of America
Show Time: About 25 minutes. You can find out when it is scheduled by checking the Show Times Guides at the entrance, or most Disneyland apps .
Recommended for: Fun for everyone, but if you have to choose between Fantasmic and the fireworks, go for the fireworks
Fun Factor: Moderate
Wait Factor: See the note below
Seating: Viewers stand around the Rivers of America to see the show.

How to Have More Fun

Several years ago, it was almost impossible to get a good spot to watch this show unless you wanted to stake out a spot hours in advance, competing with season pass holders who didn't care how long they had to wait.

Viewing Options

To make all that easier and give everyone an equal chance, you now need a FASTPASS to get into the reserved viewing area. A Fantasmic FASTPASS will not keep you from getting a pass for the rides.

As soon as the park opens, passes are available from machines at Frontier Landing near the Mark Twain Riverboat.

As long as they don't run out, you can get them up to one hour before showtime. Each pass has an assigned show time. If you want to see the first show, go there as soon as you arrive in the park.

If you didn't get a FASTPASS, a non-ticketed area is available on a first-come, first-served basis. On nights when there are two shows, you may be able to get a good viewing spot by hurrying into place there as soon as the first show ends but plan to be somewhat assertive and unafraid to move quickly to make this work best.

You can also get a “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS when you buy a dining package at Blue Bayou Restaurant or River Belle Terrace or an on-the-go meal from the Hungry Bear Restaurant. You can reserve your package at participating restaurants online or call 714-781-DINE (714-781-3463).

Accessibility

Guests may remain in their wheelchair or Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) during Fantasmic! Audio Descriptions and Handheld Captioning are also available. More about visiting Disneyland in a wheelchair or ECV .

Fantasmic! originated at Disneyland in 1992 to reinvigorate the space in front of Rivers of America. Walt Disney Creative Entertainment created the nighttime spectacular involving water and fireworks.

Fantasmic! opened in 1992, just a few days before the riots that erupted after the acquittal of the Los Angeles police officers involved in the Rodney King beating. For obvious reasons, promotional materials with the catchphrase "Be Here When the Night Ignites" quickly disappeared from public circulation.

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Disneyland Resort

‘Fantasmic!’ graphic celebrating 30 years at Disneyland park

‘Fantasmic!’ Celebrates 30 Years Today and Gears up for Spectacular Return to Disneyland Park on May 28

by Kelsey Lynch , Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

Imagine this – “Fantasmic!,” Disney’s longest-running nighttime spectacular, is celebrating its 30 th anniversary today! That’s right – on this day thirty years ago – May 13, 1992 – “Fantasmic!” premiered to guests at Disneyland park.

“Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney-animated story scenes, choreographed to an exciting musical score. The waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice and faces dastardly villains, using the power of his imagination to save the day. Along the way, fantastic events and images as seen in stories like “Fantasia,” “The Jungle Book,” and more come to life with live performers, character appearances, enhanced special effects and pyrotechnics.

"Fantasmic!" on the Rivers of America at Disneyland park

Did you know? Some updates have been made to “Fantasmic!” at Disneyland park through the years. An enhanced version of the original “Fantasmic!” presentation premiered in 2009, featuring digital projections and the spectacular 45-foot-tall fire-breathing Maleficent dragon. The show then added even more new magic in 2017, including new scenes and featured songs such as “Friend Like Me” and “A Whole New World” from the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic, “Aladdin.”

Since its debut in 1992, “Fantasmic!” has performed nearly 11,000 shows at Disneyland park! And we just can’t wait for this “journey beyond your wildest imagination” to return to the Rivers of America soon, on May 28.

We are thrilled “Fantasmic!” will be joining the other nighttime spectaculars – “World of Color” at Disney California Adventure park, plus the “Main Street Electrical Parade” and “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular at Disneyland park – upon its return. Just one more way you’ll be able to “ignite the night” at Disneyland Resort!

Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/Updates for important information to know before visiting.

Destinations: ‘Fantasmic!’ Celebrates 30 Years Today and Gears up for Spectacular Return to Disneyland Park on May 28 , Disneyland Park , Disneyland Resort

Good morning the word for today is electrical. The Disneyland winning word

How about some “ Fantasmic “ merchandise??🙏🏻

Was the May 13, 1992, Fantasmic! Premier open to general public or an invitation only event? The reason I’m asking is I’ve seen a video with a commercial advertisement it that says “premiering this Friday at Disneyland.” May 13, 1992 was a Wednesday with Friday being May 15th. Thanks!

Are they still going to do Fantasmic! dining packages and is Fantasmic! going to do virtual queue like World of Color or just regular stand by?

But when will it be back in Orlando?!?? It’s my favorite.

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Disneyland Park

by Mary Jo Willey Disneyland Travel Specialist [email protected]

Fantasmic is based on Mickey Mouse's imagination, and the fight of good against evil. There are over 50 live performers, plus film projected on three water mist screens (30-ft tall by 50-ft wide). Live action takes place on the island and on the water. Effects include pyrotechnics, fiber optics, lasers, strobe lighting, and a 45-foot fire-breathing dragon that lights the river on fire! The show begins with Annette Funicello's voice in a little introduction, then a single note starts off very subtle, slowly getting louder and louder until with a burst of music, fireworks, and Mickey's appearance the show begins. >From the beginning, guests are entertained by Disney characters - good and bad - until the final climactic scene against the dragon, and then the final exciting pyrotechnics show and characters finale on the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Waiting guests are entertained by a jazz band on a raft that floats back and forth along the river.

There are fewer guests at the second show, so you might want to watch that one instead. Make your way to Adventureland, or ride the Haunted Mansion or Splash Mountain/Winnie the Pooh during the first show and hang out in that area. When the show is over, make your way over to the viewing area as people from the first show leave.

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Fantasmic! is a long-running nighttime show at both Disneyland in California and Disney's Hollywood Studios in Florida , and formerly at Tokyo DisneySea . It is about the power of the imagination, showcased by Mickey experiencing a dream during a night in which he is asleep. It originated at Disneyland in 1992 after Disneyland's entertainment department was asked to create a nighttime spectacular involving water and fireworks to invigorate the space in front of the Rivers of America . Disneyland Entertainment employed the resources of Walt Disney Feature Animation and Walt Disney Imagineering as collaborators. Much of the area around the Rivers of America needed to be reworked, including terracing the walkways to accommodate viewing and modifying part of Tom Sawyer Island so that it could act as a stage for much of the show's live-action. The show temporarily closed at Disneyland in 2016 to make room for Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge , but was brought back with completely new scenes on the park's 62nd birthday on July 17, 2017 . On April 22, 2023, the animatronic dragon burst into flames during the finale. While no cast members or crew were hurt, the dragon and much of the show equipment in their pit were severely damaged.

In 1996 , Walt Disney Entertainment in Florida partnered with Imagineering and Feature Animation to bring a new version of the show to Disney's Hollywood Studios (formerly the Disney-MGM Studios), featuring newly animated and live-action scenes. The Rivers of America at the Magic Kingdom was not conducive to a duplication of the layout at Disneyland, so a new purpose-built 10,000 seat amphitheater was built at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Intended to boost low attendance numbers at that park, the new Fantasmic! show was also seen as a needed replacement for Sorcery in the Sky , an aging nighttime fireworks show. On March 12, 2020, the show temporarily closed at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disneyland due to the coronavirus pandemic. On August 17, the show's water feature was drained after Walt Disney World reopened during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in July 2020. However, following Disney Parks' reopening, Disneyland announced that the updated version of the show would return on May 28, 2022, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Disneyland version, while Walt Disney World announced that a newly revised and upgraded version of the show would return on November 3, 2022 at Disney's Hollywood Studios as part of Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration.

The third edition of Fantasmic! debuted on April 28, 2011 and ended on February 28, 2020 at Tokyo DisneySea in Japan. It featured a new theme song and, being set in the Mediterranean Harbor area of the park, was done on a series of barges, with a central "hat" tower instead of a stage on which Mickey and other characters could appear. Prior to the start of the show, guests would engage in doing the wave to get others excited and pumped up for the event. This is quite common at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As of 2022, some of the elements from the defunct Tokyo version are now shown in the revamped Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios version as well as the Imagination song in the post-show.

1.1 Disneyland version
1.2 Disney's Hollywood Studios version
1.3 Tokyo DisneySea version
2 Featured Disney films
3.1 English
3.2 Japanese
4.1 Heroes and heroines
4.2 Villains
4.3.1 Disneyland version
4.3.2 Walt Disney World version
4.3.3 Tokyo DisneySea version
5 Differences between the versions
6 A Taste of Fantasmic!
9.1 Posters
9.2 Concept art
10 See also
11 References

Disneyland version

The show is located on the waters of the Rivers of America at Disneyland and on a stage across the waterway. A tavern and tall trees act as a backdrop for the show. To begin, lights around the Rivers of America fade and a female narrator introduces the story.

Welcome to Fantasmic! Tonight, our friend and host Mickey Mouse uses his vivid imagination to create magical imagery for all to enjoy. Nothing is more wonderful than the imagination, for, in a moment, you can experience a beautiful fantasy or an exciting adventure. But beware, nothing is more powerful than the imagination, for it can also expand your greatest fears into an overwhelming nightmare. Are the powers of Mickey's imagination strong enough, and bright enough, to withstand the evil forces that invade Mickey's dreams? You are about to find out. For we now invite you to join Mickey, and experience Fantasmic! ... a journey beyond your wildest imagination.

The show follows a dream of Mickey Mouse that he has one night while fast asleep, which begins with him in a tuxedo discovering the water and light effects while he tests them out. He then proceeds to direct the effects like a conductor. Then he shoots pyrotechnics from his index fingertips just like in the " When You Wish Upon a Star " number in the Sing-Along Songs Disneyland Fun . The show's signature water projection screens are eventually activated, onto which animation from " The Sorcerer's Apprentice " sequence from Fantasia . Musical scores from "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" and the "Imagination" theme accompany the animation as Mickey conducts animated shooting stars pyrotechnics launched from the six pyrotechnic barges on the river.

The animation then blends with live performers interpreting different flowers. The petals then become huge green leaves and combine with onscreen animation to become flora and fauna of the jungle. The projections then show Sorcerer Mickey walking into the " Circle of Life " scene from The Lion King , as Rafiki then goes and lifts a baby Simba into the air. The lighting and music change to a jungle beat, and Kaa from The Jungle Book makes his way across the island with hypnotic beams of light firing from his eyes. Accompanying this scene are three floating barges carrying King Louie and black-lit monkeys (from the Tokyo version) across the river, dancing along to the beat; with images of pink elephants playing the tune to Hakuna Matata as Timon , Pumbaa , and a growing-up Simba walk across a log like in the song, followed by more pink elephants.

The music segues to a contemporary rendition of " Pink Elephants on Parade " from Dumbo , as more pink elephants appear onscreen and in the form of performers on the island. The elephants continue to dance until Mickey discovers a magical lamp. He rubs it, causing Genie to be freed via onscreen animation. He then shows Sorcerer Mickey his powers while singing " Friend Like Me ". Some of the transformations include turning into Donald Duck and Goofy , as well as turning Mickey into Pinocchio complete with dancers that look like Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck , as a tribute to the original Pinocchio sequence. Genie then disappears causing Sorcerer Mickey to go underwater.

Sorcerer Mickey then finds the kingdom of Atlantica . As the guests see Ariel swimming around on the projections, it then transforms into the world of Finding Nemo , as Mr. Ray takes Nemo , Dory , and the rest of their classmates on a trip to see the stingray migration. Onscreen animation then shows Cleo , Pinocchio , and Jiminy Cricket underwater. An animated Monstro the Whale interacts with live splash effects on the river. The storyline progresses as Sorcerer Mickey notices his dream becoming darker as he has sucked down a whirlpool on a spellbook. After his eyes were shown wondering where he is, a ship lost in a stormy sea at night is shown. A concussion cannon is fired from Sailing Ship Columbia , which has been transformed into the Black Pearl , where Hector Barbossa , Jack Sparrow , Elizabeth Swann , and the pirates participate in a stunt sequence as the ship makes its pass. Originally, this sequence was themed to Peter Pan , but it was transformed into a Pirates of the Caribbean scene following the 2017 refurbishment. However, you can see silhouettes of Peter, Wendy, Michael, and John flying over the moon after Sorcerer Mickey paints it.

The projections then transform into Agrabah , where Aladdin and Jasmine are on the stage as if they're flying on the Magic Carpet (set to A Whole New World ). Rapunzel and Flynn Rider , Ariel and Eric , and Belle and the Beast appear on three floating stages (transformed since the jungle scene earlier) on the river, dancing to a medley of each princess' signature song (" Beauty and the Beast ", " Part of Your World ", and " I See the Light " respectively) accompanied by lighting and water effects.

The music turns darker, Mickey in his Sorcerer's Apprentice outfit encounters the Magic Mirror as he tells him "True magical power lies within the mirror, gaze deep into your own reflection and see powers better than you could even imagine." Mickey is skeptical at first, but he eventually decides to take a look. Mickey then gets trapped inside the mirror where he eventually encounters The Evil Queen who has been transformed into The Old Hag . The hag summons Dr. Facilier's Shadow Demons as the "forces of evil" to transform Mickey Mouse's dream into a "nightmare Fantasmic." Onscreen, we see her face dissolve into that of Ursula . Ursula sings a bit of " Poor Unfortunate Souls " and joins the plot against Mickey as her two pet eels, Flotsam and Jetsam , glide across the river. Onscreen, the face of Ursula transforms into Chernabog . Animation from the "Night on Bald Mountain" sequence from Fantasia accompanies Mussorgsky's score. Luckily, Mickey eventually manages to escape the mirror.

Dragon Maleficent.

A pyrotechnic burst of flames heralds the arrival of Maleficent , beginning the climactic showdown sequence. Maleficent rises 30 feet from the stage and transforms into a dragon onscreen. The animation gives way to a 45-foot animatronic dragon, who rises from the stage before breathing fire onto the river. Sorcerer Mickey appears as he eventually uses his mind and sorcerer powers to destroy the dragon. As the dragon screams, the villains who have appeared are also destroyed onscreen (resulting in Chernabog vanishing away, destroying him, Ursula screams in agony as she is struck by bolts of lightning, destroying her too, The hag transforms back into the Evil Queen, causing her to also be destroyed and Maleficent falls to her death causing her to be destroyed lastly), and the sequence ends with a pyrotechnic burst from the river.

Following an appearance by Tinker Bell , the Mark Twain Riverboat crosses the stage, piloted by a black and white Mickey Mouse, dressed in attire from Steamboat Willie . Approximately fifty Disney and Pixar characters dance on the ship in a ribbon routine. The sequence is accompanied by searchlights, fountains, and pyrotechnic effects.

Mickey appears on top of the tavern (sometimes on the stage when the lift isn't working) as Sorcerer Mickey , and "conducts" laser beams, fireworks, and lighting effects that span the length of the river stage. In a flash, he disappears from atop the tavern, and re-appears center stage, resuming his tuxedo. Mickey says to the audience, "Some imagination, huh? Haha!" and with a laugh, he disappears in a flash. A final burst of pyrotechnics is accompanied by searchlights placed around the tavern and stage. As a finale, a brilliant green flash of pyrotechnics ignites on the water where the river once again becomes quiet and dark.

Disney's Hollywood Studios version

The show follows a dream of Mickey Mouse that he has one night while fast asleep. As the lights fade, a female narrator gives a brief welcome and mentions of the powers of imagination. A very faint musical note is heard, swelling and growing into a dramatic chord in the complete darkness. Once the chord strikes, two tall columns rise on stage left and right, with roving spotlights, until finally, Mickey appears center stage. He conducts various water fountain effects, until bringing up the giant water-mist "screens", which, in conjunction with a few flares, fade into the famous "Sorcerer's Apprentice" scene from Fantasia .

From there, the falling stars of the Sorcerer's Apprentice scene morph into flowers, and after a brief interlude, into a jungle scene. Elephants, giraffes, monkeys, birds, ostriches, rhinos, crocodiles, and cheetahs in black-lit fluorescent colors begin to herd in the mountain. The neon animals make noise and move around on the island while Rafiki and monkeys do a dance on floats traveling across the water, and Simba and Nala romp together on the water-mist screen. Next, a large bubble montage takes place, where scenes and characters from major classic animated Disney movies ( The Lion King , The Jungle Book , Dumbo , Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , Alice in Wonderland , Hercules , Pinocchio , Aladdin , Mulan , Cinderella , Lady and the Tramp , Fantasia , The Princess and the Frog , Tangled , Moana , Frozen , Bambi , Tarzan , Beauty and the Beast , and The Little Mermaid ) appear in floating bubbles. An animated Monstro then appears onscreen, accompanied by a heavy musical score as he crashes through the waters. The chaotic sea morphs into Mickey lost in an overflowed room as he is whisked into a whirlpool. After Mickey wonders where he is, he makes a cry for help, and the scene shifts to a medley of Disney heroes and heroines. First is a scene from Pocahontas , with Pocahontas singing Just Around the Riverbend , then it transitions to scenes of Mulan , Tarzan , Encanto , The Princess and the Frog , The Hunchback of Notre Dame , Hercules , Aladdin , Frozen II , and Moana .

Sorcerer Mickey in the Florida version.

The show then moves into classic dancing scenes with Aurora and Prince Phillip , Cinderella and Prince Charming , and Jasmine and Aladdin . Three small floats now arrive, with Belle and the Beast , Ariel and Prince Eric , and Snow White and her Prince each contained in their own float. As each float reaches the center, the spotlight shines on it, with the accompanying signature melody from each movie — " Beauty and the Beast ", " Part of Your World ", and " Someday My Prince Will Come ", respectively.

The music takes on an eerie tone as Mickey's dream takes a turn for the worse. The Queen appears and concocts a spell amidst pyrotechnics and other special effects, and turns herself into a hag. She invokes the help of Ursula , Cruella De Vil , Scar , Frollo , and Jafar . Jafar uses his magic to send Mickey to the Cave of Wonders. After escaping a wave of lava, Mickey encounters Jafar, who transforms himself into a giant black cobra to squeeze him and possibly drain him dry, appearing on both the stage and the mist screens. Seeing a magic lamp, Mickey rubs it, assuming it will help him . Unfortunately, Jafar is transformed into a genie and calls upon Hades , who laments on how "noble" Mickey's thoughts are before he calls Chernabog , who summons spirits from the dead .

As Chernabog finishes, Mickey, now in his Brave Little Tailor outfit, comes face to face with Maleficent, who tells the mouse that he'll now deal with her and all the forces of her imagination. As her pinnacle rises, she transforms into a 40-foot-tall fire-breathing dragon that sets the waters ablaze as the villains laugh at Mickey and his imagination. Guests as far as halfway back in the theater can feel the heat from the fire. Mickey, finally deciding to stand up to the villains for his dream, manages to pulls a nearby sword out from its stone (similar to The Sword in the Stone ) and creates a wall of water around the island, smothering the flames and defeating the dragon. He eliminates the villains from the dream world using the power of his imagination and his sword. The villains feel the wrath of the magical electricity from the sword; resulting in Chernabog attempting to shield himself from the light of the electricity as he vanishes away, Hades cringes in surprise from the effects as he too disappears, Jafar screams in agonizing pain decimating him as well, Frollo looks back in shock as he yells out "Witchcraft!" as he is overpowered, Scar snarls in a fury as he is overtaken, Cruella looks back in shock, yelling out "What is this?!" before also being vanquished, then Ursula is also taken down as she screams in agony while being struck by bolts of lightning, followed by the hag who transforms back into the Evil Queen causing her to also be annihilated, and finally Maleficent dies as the water splashes with a large firework bang.

Mickey controlling Steamboat Willie.

All is quiet until we see Tinker Bell fly to restore the mountain. Magical stars sparkle in the mountain as the Steamboat Willie riverboat approaches. Then a spark of pyrotechnics ignites from the riverboat, revealing Mickey, looking as he did in the original short, controlling the boat. As it glides past the audience, various Disney characters appear aboard the boat, usually waving streamers. A celebratory atmosphere prevails amid a flurry of fireworks.

With another flash of pyrotechnics, Mickey disappears from Steamboat Willie riverboat and re- appears atop the highest point of the mountain in his Sorcerer outfit as fireworks, fire, and water light up the stage. As the finale concludes, Mickey disappears from the top of the mountain with another spark of pyrotechnics, a small explosion in the main stage and simultaneously reappears in his shiny tuxedo suit. A small applause from the crowd and Mickey says, "Some imagination, huh? Haha!" Pyrotechnics shoot out of the main stage and barges on the moat, he vanishes one last time to the final notes of the music while a cone of lights and searchlights bright up the stage for a few seconds. All turns dark once again and the show has concluded.

Tokyo DisneySea version

Like the other incarnations, the show follows a dream of Mickey Mouse that he has one night while fast asleep. The show begins with the tune of the Sorcerer's Apprentice as out of the stars, Sorcerer Mickey emerges on a tower of stars in a comet. The new theme song, Imagination plays as Mickey conducts the water and images of different characters appear on the tower. The music shifts into the instrumental Fantasmic theme and continues into Sorcerer's Apprentice as Mickey conducts the stars and sea and calls on the Magic Brooms . The waters rise and we enter the sea with Ariel singing " Part of Your World ", with Crush and his sea turtles swimming in the background. The dancing fish from Fantasia's Nutcracker suite also appears as does Jiminy Cricket in his bubble, who pops it and fills the sky with bubbles.

Mickey's eyes appear in the dark asking what's going on and the show enters the jungle. While Tarzan and Jane Porter appear swinging on the projection tower, floats featuring giant inflatable versions of Baloo , King Louie , Pumbaa , and Simba as a cub appear along with a floating Kaa . A medley of music from Tarzan , " I Just Can't Wait to Be King ", " The Bare Necessities ", " I Wan'na Be Like You ", and " Hakuna Matata " plays, eventually building up into the Circle of Life .

Sorcerer Mickey controlling the fountain at Tokyo DisneySea .

When Rafiki is about to hold up Simba though, Stitch appears instead (similar to one of the Inter-Stitch-al trailers of the film) and the music goes into an electric guitar version of Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride with Stitch conducting the water while Angel pilots Stitch's red speeder shooting plasmablasts. Mickey appears again, accompanied by the show's theme song and When You Wish Upon A Star and sets the stage for an appearance by the Genie singing Friend Like Me as well as the scene of A Whole New World . As Aladdin and Jasmine fly off, the music segues into Cinderella and a sequence based on the Disney Princesses.

After the Princess medley, Mickey encounters the Magic Mirror and asks "Who's the most powerful Sorcerer of all?" The Mirror tells him "True magical power lies within the mirror, gaze deep into your own reflection... Look closer... That's it, closer...". Mickey is then trapped inside, allowing the Witch and the villains to take control, each one appearing within the mirror. The Witch calls on the assistance of Ursula (singing " Poor Unfortunate Souls ") and Chernabog (whose appearance is accompanied with a mix of Night on Bald Mountain and " Hellfire "). The witch laughs at the power of Imagination and the last villain emerges from the mirror: Maleficent who shows the power of her imagination by turning into her dragon form. Mickey defeats Maleficent (along with Chernabog, Ursula and the Witch who transforms back into the Evil Queen) with his magic wand and the power of his imagination. He falls back into his sleeping body and with a wave of Tinker Bell 's wand, the show moves into the finale, with a reprise of the song and many of the good characters appearing on the barges, including regular Mickey. The barges stop and Sorcerer Mickey reappears on the tower, clad in a flowing white robe to conduct the final fireworks and fountains as the theme builds. Mickey then remarks "Imagination! Haha!" translated to Japanese "イマジネーション！ハハ！" and disappears, with a few notes of the Sorcerer's Apprentice theme and the final fanfare. The tower takes on the appearance of the Sorcerer's Hat and the exit music plays.

Featured Disney films

Mickey Mouse & Friends/ DuckTales ( Launchpad McQuack was the only character from the series to appear in the finale)
Fantasia / Fantasia 2000
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh / Winnie the Pooh
Toy Story / Toy Story 2 / Toy Story 3
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
One Hundred and One Dalmatians
Finding Nemo / Finding Dory
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
Frozen / Frozen II
Wayne Allwine – Mickey Mouse (DL 1992 Version and DHS 1998 Version)
Suzanne Waters – Female Vocalist (Princess Medley) (DL 1992 Version and DHS 1998 Version/2022 Version)
Fletcher Sheridan - Male Vocalist (Princess Medley) (DL 1992 Version and DHS 1998 Version/2022 Version)
Louise Chamis – The Evil Queen
Tony Jay – Magic Mirror (DL 1992 Version and DHS 1998/2022 Version), Judge Claude Frollo (DHS 1998/2022 Version)
Eddie Carroll – Jiminy Cricket
Chris Steele - Peter Pan (DL 1992 Version)
Kathryn Beaumont - Wendy Darling (DL 1992 Version)
Corey Burton – Chernabog , Captain Hook (DL 1992 Version), Mr. Smee (DL 1992 Version), Magic Mirror (DL 2017 Version)
Linda Gary – Maleficent , Opening Announcer
Pat Carroll – Ursula
Susanne Blakeslee - Cruella De Vil (DHS 1998/2022 Version)
Jonathan Freeman – Jafar (DHS 1998/2022 Version)
Jim Cummings – Scar (DHS 1998/2022 Version)
Linda Hunt – Grandmother Willow (DHS 1998 Version)
David Ogden Stiers – Governor Ratcliffe (DHS 1998 Version)
James Woods – Hades (DHS 1998/2022 Version)
Robin Williams – Genie (DL 2017 Version/Archived Recordings)
Geoffrey Rush – Hector Barbossa (DL 2017 Version/Film Footage)
Jared Butler – Jack Sparrow (DL 2017 Version/Voice Only)
Heather Headley – Female Vocalist (Princess Medley) (DL 2017 Version)
Chris Mann – Male Vocalist (Princess Medley) (DL 2017 Version) [2]
Judy Kuhn - Pocahontas (DHS 2022 Version)
Brad Kane - Aladdin (DHS 2022 Version)
Idina Menzel - Elsa (DHS 2022 Version)
Auli'i Cravalho - Moana (DHS 2022 Version)
Takashi Aoyagi – Mickey Mouse (TDS 2011 Version)
Kyoko Satomi – The Evil Queen (TDS 2011 Version)
Tamio Ōki – Magic Mirror (TDS 2011 Version)
Toshiko Sawada – Maleficent (TDS 2011 Version)
Kujira – Ursula (TDS 2011 Version)
Kōichi Yamadera – Genie , Stitch (TDS 2011 Version)

Featured characters

Heroes and heroines.

Brave Little Tailor Mickey (1992 Disneyland version and Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Peter Pan (1992 Disneyland version only)
Wendy Darling (1992 Disneyland version only)
Jack Sparrow (2017 Disneyland version only)
Elizabeth Swann (2017 Disneyland version only)
Tinker Bell
Genie (2017 Disneyland and Tokyo versions)
Nala (Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Pocahontas (Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
John Smith (1998 Disney's Hollywood Studios version)
Nemo (2017 Disneyland and Tokyo versions)
Marlin (2017 Disneyland version only)
Dory (2017 Disneyland and Tokyo versions)
Mr. Ray (2017 Disneyland version only)
Prince Charming
Prince Eric
Rapunzel (2017 Disneyland version only)
Flynn Rider (2017 Disneyland version only)
Prince Phillip
Prince Naveen
Lilo (Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Stitch (Disney's Hollywood Studios and Tokyo versions only)
Moana (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Anna (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Elsa (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Olaf (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Tarzan (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios and Tokyo version only)
Mirabel Madrigal (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Quasimodo (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Hercules (Florida version only)
Fa Mulan (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Li Shang (2022 Disney's Hollywood Studios version only)
Angel (Tokyo Disneysea version only)
Woody (Disneyland version only)
Buzz Lightyear (Disneyland version only)
Jessie (Disneyland version only)
Pink Elephants *
Captain Hook * (1992 Disneyland version)
Mr. Smee * (1992 Disneyland version)
Hector Barbossa * (2017 Disneyland version)
Talking Skull * (2017 Disneyland version)
The Evil Queen
Magic Mirror
Facilier's Friends on the Other Side (2017 Disneyland version)
Flotsam and Jetsam
Governor Ratcliffe * (1998 Disney's Hollywood Studios version)
Cruella De Vil
Claude Frollo
Jafar (featured in the Night on Bald Mountain segment)
Hades (featured in the Night on Bald Mountain segment)

Villains with an * aren't involved in the takeover.

Characters appearing in the Finale

The characters riding Steamboat Willie at the end of the Disneyland version of the show.

Disneyland's version of the finale has included many different characters since its 1992 debut and has changed throughout the years, such as to replace older characters with newer ones.

The current finale character line-up includes Mickey, Minnie Mouse , Chip and Dale , Goofy , Pluto , Donald Duck , Cinderella, Prince Charming, Suzy and Perla , Snow White and her Prince, Aladdin, Jasmine, Aurora , Prince Phillip , Tiana , Ariel, Prince Eric, Belle, the Beast, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Mary Poppins , the Chimney Sweeps, Alice , the White Rabbit , the Mad Hatter , Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum , Woody , Buzz Lightyear , Jessie , and two Green Army Men .

However, the character line-up can sometimes vary between shows as other random characters are occasionally featured instead. These include Clarabelle Cow , Winnie the Pooh , Piglet , Eeyore , Tigger , Genie , Dopey , Pinocchio , Mirabel Madrigal , Pocahontas , Meeko , Esmeralda , Bo Peep , Jane Porter , Terk , Princess Elena , and Merida .

Also, during the special 20th-anniversary performances of the show in May 2012, Roger Rabbit , Br'er Rabbit , Br'er Fox , Br'er Bear , the Three Little Pigs , and the Big Bad Wolf (all of whom previously appeared in the finale during the earlier years of the show's existence) made appearances.

Other characters that have appeared in the finale over the years include Clara Cluck , Max Goof , Doc , Grumpy , Happy , Sleepy , Sneezy , Bashful , Geppetto , Gideon , Baloo , Friar Tuck , Prince John , Timon , Rafiki , John Smith , Quasimodo , Hercules , Phil , Fa Mulan , Mushu , Tarzan , Stitch , Launchpad McQuack , Monterey Jack , and Rebecca Cunningham .

Walt Disney World version

The characters riding the Steamboat Willie Riverboat at the end of the Florida version of the show.

Walt Disney World's version of the finale currently includes Mickey, Minnie, Chip, Dale, Goofy, Pluto, Donald, Pinocchio, Geppetto, Snow White, and her Prince, Doc, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Bashful, Dopey, Aladdin, Jasmine, Genie, Moana, Belle, Beast, Ariel, Prince Eric, Tiana, Rafiki, Stitch, Pocahontas, Meeko, Fa Mulan, Elsa , Baloo, and Mary Poppins.

However, the character line-up can sometimes vary between shows as other random characters are occasionally featured instead. These include Daisy Duck , Judy Hopps , Nick Wilde , Anna , Scrooge McDuck, Alice, Peter Pan, Jiminy Cricket , Aurora , Cinderella , Mei Lee and Mirabel Madrigal .

As in Disneyland, the character line-up has gone through changes since its debut. For example: Br'er Bear, John Smith, Hercules, Megara , Phil, Bert , and the Chimney Sweeps appeared on the boat regularly in the past.

Other characters who appeared in the finale over the years include Mr. Smee , Mushu, Tigger, Br'er Fox, Fairy Godmother , Quasimodo, Lilo , Timon, Max Goof, and Robin Hood .

Characters may vary in this version as well, though not quite as often.

Tokyo DisneySea's version of the finale included the following characters, besides the Fantasmic! dancers (in a clockwise direction):

Barge 1: Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Snow White, The Prince, Dopey
Barge 2: Chip, Dale, Clarice, Marie, Aurora, Prince Phillip
Barge 3: Pinocchio, Gepetto, Jiminy Cricket, Ariel, Prince Eric, Max the Sheepdog
Barge 4: Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu

For a while, however, only 3 barges were operational, holding the following characters:

Barge 2: Chip, Dale, Clarice, Ariel, Prince Eric, Max the Sheepdog
Barge 3: Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu

Differences between the versions

Although the shows in Disneyland, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Tokyo DisneySea are similar in many respects, there are some differences between the three versions.

In the old Disneyland version of the finale, as soon as Mickey says "Some imagination, huh? Haha!", the cone of lights immediately turns on and fireworks from the barges surrounding the stage ignite. This caused the audience to view how Mickey "vanishes". Now, like the Disney World version, there is a spark of bright pyrotechnics as soon as the line is said. In the Tokyo DisneySea version, this illusion is created by pyrotechnics at Mickey's platform, followed by a quick release trap set within the platform.
The choreography of the Opening Mickey and Sorcerer Mickey in both Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios are different in their own ways. At Tokyo DisneySea, this choreography is completely removed, as this show has a different opening.
Whereas the show is performed on the Rivers of America at Disneyland, Disney needed a new nighttime draw for Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Hollywood Hills Amphitheater built at Disney's Hollywood Studios was made specifically for Fantasmic!
At Disney's Hollywood Studios, the show runs for almost 27 minutes (due to the montage of Disney clips inside bubbles, the additional villains, and the wall of water at the climax), compared to Disneyland's which is only 22 minutes. The Tokyo DisneySea version runs at approximately 23 minutes.
The Jungle Scene with Kaa, King Louie, and the monkeys from The Jungle Book at Disneyland is replaced with a tribute to The Lion King at Disney's Hollywood Studios. However, King Louie and the monkeys do appear briefly in the bubble scene. Tokyo DisneySea uses characters from both films series, as well as video from Tarzan to accent the "Circle of Life" scene from the Lion King. The 2017 and 2022 incarnation from Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios also now uses both films.
In 2022, the Pocahontas segment was replaced with a Heroes segment for the Hollywood Studios version of Fantasmic which utilizes scenes of Mulan , Tarzan , Encanto , The Princess and the Frog , The Hunchback of Norte Dame , Hercules , Aladdin , Frozen II and Moana . However, Pocahontas was still utilized within the beginning of the segment with Pocahontas singing " Just Around the Riverbend ".
Since July 2015, clips of Tangled , The Princess and the Frog , and Frozen were included in the bubble montage scenes at the Hollywood Studios version.
In 2017, the Rock version of "Pink Elephants" is replaced with a Dubstep remix version at Disneyland.
Genie turning Mickey into Pinocchio complete with dancers that look like Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck served as a tribute to the original Pinocchio sequence. Pinocchio still appears in the undersea segment as well as Jiminy.
There was a little scene of Ariel, Cinderella, and Belle as belly dancers. Eventually, however, the segment was considered to be a little adult for young audiences, forcing the show to use different characters/effects from "Friend Like Me".
Ursula's reprisal of " Poor Unfortunate Souls " is taken out at Disney's Hollywood Studios to introduce the other Disney villains. She plays a smaller role in the Florida show than in the California one. In Tokyo DisneySea's version, her role is identical to California's version, with the exception that the song is in Japanese.
More villains are featured in the Florida version. Many of the additions are villains from Disney animated features released after the Disneyland version was first introduced.
In California, Mickey destroys the villains by pointing a sword at the Dragon and saying, "You may think you're so powerful, well, this is my dream!" before light shoots from his sword toward the villains. But as of 2017, he appears in his sorcerer form and instead makes fireworks to defeat them. In Florida, he still says this, but before he destroys the villains, he causes a wall of water to block out the island and douse the flames; he then marches over to the sword in the stone and pulls it out.
Instead of the Mark Twain riverboat, the characters in the Florida show dance on a smaller boat based on the Steamboat Willie boat . Tokyo DisneySea uses four barges refurbished from previous shows performed in the Mediterranean Harbor.
In the California version, the giant snake that comes out on the stage is Kaa from The Jungle Book ; in the Florida version, the snake is Jafar from Aladdin . Also, Jafar has a much bigger role in the show than any other villain except for Maleficent. Tokyo DisneySea uses a redesigned Kaa as a moving float during the "Circle of Life" segment.
Having been updated, the California version's Maleficent dragon is considerably more advanced than its Florida counterpart and has a wider range of movement. Tokyo's dragon consists only of the head and neck emerging from a mirror. It is unknown if it is a puppet or an animatronic.
The final battle scene in California and Tokyo DisneySea's shows differ from their Florida counterpart. While the Florida version put Brave Little Tailor Mickey against the dragon Maleficent , Sorcerer Mickey is the one who battles Maleficent at Disneyland where he uses his magic controls and Tokyo DisneySea where he, instead of using a sword, shoots fireworks from a magic wand topped with a Hidden Mickey emblem.
Unlike the US versions, Tokyo DisneySea's show does not open with the "Welcome to Fantasmic!..." phrase as part of the opening act; instead, it starts off with Dukas' Sorcerer's Apprentice . The narration is recited as part of the pre-show announcements in both Japanese and English, by two male voices, instead of a female voice.
The music of the Villain segment of the show is almost identical to Disneyland's version, with two notable exceptions: in the Chernabog scene, the music is instead a mixture of "Night on Bald Mountain" and "Hellfire"; and instead of the Evil Queen's transformation into the Old Hag, Mickey is the one who summons the Magic Mirror and the power of evil.
The dialog in Tokyo DisneySea's version is in Japanese. When translated from Japanese to English, Mickey's dialog in Tokyo DisneySea's version is literally the same as the US versions (except when Mickey calls the Magic Mirror and the magic of romance).
In the Florida and Tokyo versions, Bruce Healey's exit music can be heard after each performance. In 2017, Disneyland's version replaced Bruce Healey's exit music with the "Imagination" song from Tokyo's version, but the original exit music can still be heard in the entrance plaza in between the two theme parks.
Tokyo's version features Ariel (as both human and mermaid), Beauty and the Beast , The Princess and the Frog (as animation), and Snow White (Theme and Finale). Cinderella is the only featured Princess who does not appear in all three versions. Belle and the Beast are featured as animation only; they do not appear in the Finale.
During Walt Disney World's years Mickey has had a total of 3 three different swords. The first one that was used from (1999-2003) was thin and long, the second one that was used from (2003-2011) was remodeled and was a bit bigger and pointier, and the current one is a lot larger and has more effects that include a red light beam effect that shoots toward the dragon.
In early 2014, Disneyland got new World of Color fountains that move to Mickey's movements, but were shortly taken down due to problems. In 2017 the new fountains were replaced with improved versions which move more like their World of Color counterparts.
In late 2011, Walt Disney World was given new firework effects in the finale which includes Mickey's new fireworks that appear behind him and new finale fireworks. Likewise, Disneyland got new firework blasts at the end of the show. During the 2011 refurbishment, the show returned to 7 shows a week and was given new dragon lighting effects. During the 15th anniversary, Walt Disney World was given new lights on the princess barges, like Disneyland's, and new low smoke effects and new fire in the dragon's mouth where it hits the water, the lift at the top of the mountain was experiencing problems and now comes up slower than it normally does for the performers' safety.
In 2010, Disneyland was given new lasers for the finale that move.
In (1999-2002), Mickey disappeared with flash fireworks all around the stage and so from any angle, you could not see how he disappeared, but in 2002 Mickey was given a spark blast around his elevator to make it more magical for the audience.
In the intro of the WDW version, almost anyone can see Mickey coming up the lift; Disneyland's lift is so fast when the lights hit Mickey he just came up.
In 2017, the original female singer in Disneyland's Fantasmic! was replaced by Heather Headley who also provided vocals on other Disney nighttime shows like World of Color Winter Dreams, Season of Light and Disney Illuminations in Paris. The original female singer can still be heard in the Orlando version.

A Taste of Fantasmic!

Due to the typical rainy weather in Florida, Disney Hollywood Studios will present a Taste of Fantasmic! which contains just the fountains and launches off the preloaded pyro, as it is too dangerous to unload it. This show is about 5 minutes.

With the success of FastPass viewing for the World of Color show at Disney's California Adventure, Fantasmic! at Disneyland started to offer the service. On December 12 , 2013 , Outdoor Vending Carts converted to FastPass machines were placed along the Big Thunder Trail offering Blue, Yellow, and Green Section FastPass tickets. Only guests with FastPass tickets are allowed in the viewing areas. Limited stand by viewing is available in small sections around the viewing area. In addition to FastPasses guests may also purchase a Dining Package at Blue Bayou or Riverbelle Terrace for a reserved viewing section. Aladdin's Oasis also offers a To-Go dinner package but it only grants the purchaser access to the Blue Section. For a limited time, Hungry Bear restaurant also offered a reserved viewing section called the Dessert Party.

In 2017 , the FastPass for Fantasmic was redone with the distribution now occurring next to the Mark Twain/Columbia dock. The regular Fastpass tickets are now for just one section of the viewing area with the rest reserved for those with dining packages from Riverbelle Terrace, Blue Bayou or Hungry Bear Restaurant with Aladdin's Oasis no longer offering the Fantasmic On-the-Go package and the package itself moved to Hungry Bear.

From 1992 to 2016, cast members working traffic control at the Disneyland version wore shirts that were yellow with a black stripe. They quickly gained the affectionate nickname "Fantasmic Bumblebees". When the show returned in 2017, the shirts were replaced with a simpler blue design.
Before the nighttime Rivers of America show project settled on what we now know as Fantasmic! , a show themed around The Haunted Mansion 's 999 ghosts taking over the Rivers of America with the working title "The River Haunt" was proposed but ultimately deemed too expensive.
The barges in the Jungle segment is also used for the Princess segment.
Since January 27 , 2023 , the show area at Disneyland is also used for the nighttime firework show Wondrous Journeys .
On April 22, 2023, the Maleficent dragon at the Disneyland version of the show caught fire during the scene where Mickey vanquishes Maleficent in defeat, sending plumes of smoke and fire into the air. The Anaheim Fire Department was called to the scene and the audience viewing area was quickly evacuated. No injuries were reported.

Sorcerer Mickey vs Maleficent (Disney's Hollywood Studios)

Concept art

World of Color
↑ " OLC Announces Tokyo DisneySea to Reopen on April 28th - LaughingPlace.com: Disney World, Disneyland and More ". LaughingPlace.com. Retrieved on September 21, 2011.
↑ Wonderful Union. " Official Site ". Chris Mann .
1 Once Upon a Studio

Guide to Fantasmic at Disneyland: Best Viewing & Seating Spots

In this guide, we’ll offer tips & tricks watching Fantasmic at Disneyland, best & worst views, sitting & standing locations to see the nighttime spectacular, whether dining packages are worth the money, and suggestions for taking better photos of this impressive Disney nighttime spectacular. (Updated April 27, 2023. )

For those unfamiliar with it, Fantasmic is a nighttime spectacular performed most nights on the Rivers of America at Disneyland. A variation of the same show–albeit with different and some newer scenes–is also presented in Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. It was previously shown at Tokyo DisneySea, before being replaced by Believe! Sea of Dreams.

Fantasmic is an evening extravaganza combining various elements–fire, water projections, lasers, and fireworks–for a show that is loosely about the power of imagination. Disney Villains turn Mickey’s dream into a nightmare, and the little mouse uses the power of his imagination to overcome them! The elaborate production also features 50 live performers, massive sets, and rousing music to produce a larger-than-life show.

The premise of Fantasmic is that Mickey Mouse is fast asleep, dreaming of being the Sorcerer’s Apprentice. This sets the stage for a series of scenes from other films, some of which Mickey Mouse appears inside. He conducts montage moments from Fantasia, Aladdin, Lion King, Tangled, Beauty and the Beast, Little Mermaid, Jungle Book, Winnie the Pooh, and many other movies.

The most memorable moments occur with the arrival of pink elephants on parade, swashbuckling pirates doing battle, princesses and princes dancing, and monkeys doing monkey things. When suddenly, Mickey Mouse is pulled into the Magic Mirror, his dream takes a dark turn and becomes a “nightmare fantasmic.” The Evil Queen from Snow White conjures up some of Disney’s most dastardly villains—including Maleficent as a 45-foot, fire-breathing dragon! Mickey must use the power of his imagination to vanquish his foes—and save the day! Speaking of Maleficent, that brings us to our 2023 update…

April 27, 2023 Update: During the second performance of the nighttime spectacular last Saturday, the Maleficent dragon caught fire during the climactic scene of Fantasmic at Disneyland . The fire erupted as Mickey Mouse began to shoot sparks at the giant dragon’s head to defeat it in the storyline of the show. The Anaheim Fire Department responded to the scene, with all Cast Members and guests safely evacuated the area.

In the days since, Disneyland has been scrambling to fix damage, with scaffolding erected on the Tom Sawyer Island stage. Despite this, Disneyland has removed Fantasmic from the schedule until May 19, 2023 and released the following statement: “We know our guests love and miss Fantasmic, and Disneyland Resort teams are working hard to assess when we can bring back an adjusted show as quickly and safely as possible.”

It’s important to stress that Fantasmic returning on May 19, 2023 is entirely tentative at this point. Fantasmic could return earlier or later depending upon how the safety inspections goes and how quickly interim replacements for the damaged showpieces can be prepared. Judging by the nature and extent of the fire damage, it’s likely that the Murphy Audio Animatronics figure of Maleficent will be missing for far longer.

At the very least, the Maleficent dragon scene is likely going to be presented in b-mode for the next several months. Whether that ends up being a mist screen (likely at first) or a “dragon on a stick” (possible within a few weeks) remains to be seen. However, it could still take months–if not until 2024–before an advanced, fire-breathing Maleficent Audio Animatronics figure returns to Fantasmic at Disneyland.

In the meantime, we would highly recommend making a point of seeing the new Wondrous Journeys fireworks from the front of the park if at all possible. See our Disneyland Fireworks Viewing Guide for the best and worst locations–the recommendations here simply cover the easiest way for seeing both Fantasmic and the fireworks in the same night, but Wondrous Journeys is such an excellent nighttime spectacular that it deserves to be seen up close from its intended viewing angle. This new fireworks show is on par with Happily Ever After, arguably the best fireworks show ever to be done by Disney.

Upon returning, this viewing guide will still apply to Fantasmic. Although Mickey Mouse defeating Maleficent is the climactic scene and the highlight of the nighttime spectacular, Fantasmic as a whole is still amazing, and a 10/10 production even with that scene modified or presented in its b-mode.

We are big fans of Fantasmic, and have seen both the original and “Fantasmic 2.0” version dozens and dozens of times at Disneyland. (Far fewer at Walt Disney World.) While we love World of Color and enjoy Main Street Electrical Parade, the heart and soul of Disneyland’s nighttime entertainment is Fantasmic. If you’re a Disneyland first-timer or have only watched it at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Fantasmic at Disneyland is a true treat and an absolute must-see.

The seminal Disneyland version of Fantasmic is going to be very popular for the foreseeable future, and it’ll play to a packed house nightly–even with multiple nightly showings. You might want to get a dining package for Fantasmic if you plan on seeing the show anytime soon. With Disneyland’s decision to forgo the virtual queue for Fantasmic, and it not being available as a Genie+ Lightning Lane selection, the dining packages are the only way to guarantee a good view without camping out for hours. We’ll cover that and more in this post.

Since this is the first article dedicated to Fantasmic on this blog, even though it has nothing to do with viewing or photographing the show, I’d be remiss if I didn’t share a fun tidbit that I assume other Disney fans will find interesting. Up until its late stages of development, Fantasmic was known as Imagination!

The name was ultimately changed because of concerns with being able to trademark the generic Imagination name, whereas Fantasmic (a made up word), could be easily trademarked. The Imagination! name got so far along in the process that Disneyland even made up marketing posters with Imagination! as its name. I like the name Fantasmic, but I’ll admit that I get chills when I pop in the Fantasmic CD and the opening line “imag-in-ation…imag-in-ation…” plays.

Okay, on with the more relevant information for successfully viewing and photographing Fantasmic! We’ll start with simply seeing the nighttime spectacular along the Rivers of America at Disneyland…

Best Viewing Spots

Disneyland’s seating can be tricky. Unlike its counterpart at Walt Disney World, Fantasmic does not have a purpose-built outdoor amphitheater. When we say that it’s performed “along the Rivers of America,” we mean it. Its seating area is literally just a multi-level walkway and a promenade along the waterfront during the day.

That Fantasmic comes alive essentially out of nowhere is part of its charm. It also makes figuring out where to watch–or even where to wait to watch– a challenge for Disneyland first-timers.

During most busier dates, Fantasmic is performed twice nightly, at 9 pm and 10:30 pm. Typically, the first showing of Fantasmic will wrap up, and then the Disneyland fireworks will be presented almost immediately thereafter. The second performance of Fantasmic will occur about 30 minutes after that. If you’re planning on watching the first Fantasmic, stay in your spot after it ends to see the fireworks–there are mist screens with projections on the water and most of the pyro is visible. (You won’t have time to get a spot on Main Street after seeing Fantasmic.)

Note that these times are subject to change. You should check the entertainment schedule in the Disneyland app for the specific show times on the days that you’re in the park.

Currently, viewing protocol for Fantasmic is not similar to World of Color. When the latter returned to Disney California Adventure, it began using a virtual queue as a replacement for free FastPass or paid MaxPass that used to be offered. Our assumption was that Fantasmic would follow suit and offer Genie+ Lightning Lanes, but that has not happened as of 2023.

Instead, Fantasmic’s main seating area–on the ground in the lowest tier along the Rivers of America–is reserved for dining packages, and what’s left over is filled in by standby guests. However, there are no guarantees for standby and the number of dining packages sold can fluctuate each day.

In addition to that, there are standing areas behind and around the seating areas. These are scattered all over the place, with locations including the bridge over Pirates of the Caribbean and sections of walkway near River Belle Terrace and Haunted Mansion. These are not in the main seating area, and aside from the Pirates of the Caribbean viewpoint, are typically off-center views.

It’s very difficult to offer tips & tricks right now for any of these locations, as our recent experiences with Fantasmic has been nothing short of chaotic. I cannot stress this enough, and it’s not hyperbole. Multiple fights have broken out, and it’s easy to see why–even trying to navigate through Frontierland and New Orleans Square is a challenge.

On top of that, the viewing areas are all packed, and there’s not much consistency as to how or when they fill up. There are ropes that form cattle corrals for guests to watch Fantasmic, but if you’re a first-timer, it’s difficult to make sense of what’s going on. In addition to this, protocol and procedures are still “evolving” as Disneyland Cast Members try their best to manage crowds. With that in mind, I’ll offer a few pointers and circle back to this section in a few weeks with clearer viewing strategy…

My first piece of advice would be to see the second showing of Fantasmic, as it’s significantly less crowded and no one is camping out for it hours in advance since the first performance ends roughly an hour before the second starts. The second point is really the key, as some locals stake out Fantasmic spots in the late afternoon for the first performance of Fantasmic.

For the second performance you’ll want to watch the Disneyland fireworks from the border between Frontierland and New Orleans Square, in the area between River Belle Terrace and Pirates of the Caribbean. It’s pretty easy to sneak in and grab a waterfront spot during the mass exodus after the first Fantasmic–and you should be able to stay there for the show. (Just be careful not to inadvertently enter the dining package area to the left of the general public area!)

At this point, that’s the best recommendation we have for watching Fantasmic. If you’re willing to gamble, another option is waiting over by Harbour Galley (in front of Haunted Mansion) for last-minute seating in the reserved seating area for dining packages. If this section isn’t full, standby guests are allowed to fill-in a few minutes before Fantasmic starts. (No guarantees on this, though.)

Worst views are anything with an obstructed view. This might seem obvious, but it’s worth reiterating that Fantasmic does not have a purpose-built venue along the Rivers of America. This is just the normal waterfront, and there’s a lot of stuff in the way. The easiest way to determine whether a view is going to be good or bad, is to stand there and see how clearly you can see the main stage on Tom Sawyer Island.

While the main building there is key, there are multiple levels and props on the stage, some of which block Mickey Mouse and other characters if you’re standing at a harsh angle on the far sides along the Rivers of America. In front of Haunted Mansion or Golden Horseshoe qualify as locations that are less than ideal, and the same goes for the Harbour Galley and River Belle Terrace seating areas. The latter is now sold as a premium dining package that costs more than the normal–and superior–dining packages. Unless you absolutely need a chair, you should opt for something else.

Alternatively, you can do a Fantasmic Dinner Package. With this, you’re paying a premium to dine at Hungry Bear Restaurant, River Belle Terrace, or Blue Bayou in a bundle that includes a ticket for reserved seating. The best seating location is for Blue Bayou, with Hungry Bear and River Belle Terrace flanking the dead-center seating of Blue Bayou.

Even though it’s the priciest option, Blue Bayou is the dining package we recommend for tourists. If you’re going to do the Fantasmic Dining Package, you might as well splurge for a meal and dining experience that are actually good. Blue Bayou and Fantasmic are both quintessential Disneyland experiences, and this is a great way to do both.

See our River Belle Terrace Fantasmic Dining Package Review for our past experience with that option. We just did the Hungry Bear On-the-Go Fantasmic Dining Package and will be reviewing that very soon. Both are great options at different price points–the viewing location for River Belle Terrace is definitely the better of the two.

If you do these dining packages, you’ll either want to get a front row spot and look through the rail or sit a bit back from the front. Second “row” (air quotes because it’s all very informal) in this seating area isn’t great because the hand rail along the waterfront will effectively block part of your view. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being in the third or fourth rows of the seating area, as it slopes upwards away from the water. (As far as the seating area goes, I think front or back is best.)

My favorite spot for viewing Fantasmic at Disneyland is directly in front of the show control area at the back of the seated area. To give some reference, this is directly in front of Cafe Orleans. The Pirates of the Caribbean bridge is another good standing spot, too.

Disneyland claims that any view of Fantasmic is a good one, but that’s not entirely true. While the show has multiple mist screens to provide 180º of “good” views, there’s only one main stage. This means that views of Mickey Mouse, the dragon, and anything else that takes place are best from the center of the seating area.

In reality, you’re going to have little choice over your viewing location unless you’re visiting during the off-season, once crowds die down. The good news is that most spots in the seating area offer a great view. It’s a dynamic show and the seating area is intimate, so don’t fret over where you’re sitting.

Fantasmic Photography Tips

Fantasmic can be a challenge to photograph due to the low light and moving elements, coupled with flashes of bright effects. For point and shoot users or DSLR owners without much technical knowledge, my best recommendation is to put your camera in “sports” mode. There is a lot of fast action in Fantasmic, and this will keep your shutter speed high and prevent you from having blurry photos.

However, it will also result in a lot of noise and dark photos for much of the show. I would probably only focus on brightly lit scenes (such as when the dragon appears), as you are going to end up with a lot of garbage shots. Remember, this is an imperfect solution to a complex show to photograph.

If you are comfortable with your cameras settings (or willing to learn), you have better options. If you don’t have basic technical understanding of the elements of exposure (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO), I highly recommend reading Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson before reading any further trying to take better photos. If the paragraphs that follow don’t make sense to you, start with that ( and other photography books ) and then come back.

In terms of gear, you’ll want to use the longest zoom you have. For me, this is a Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II . The significance of good gear for photographing Fantasmic (or a really close viewing spot) cannot be understated. You’ll want a zoom lens that is also fast.

You do not need a tripod for Fantasmic. You don’t even need a monopod. Your shutter speed will need to be relatively fast to freeze the action in the show. Remember, a tripod only eliminates camera shake induced by the photographer…it doesn’t freeze the things you’re photographing!

Additionally, use the metering mode on your camera that takes the center-average of the frame, rather the whole scene. Since you’re photographing characters and they’ll have spotlights on them, you want to meter off of these characters. Do not average that metering with the dark areas behind them.

If you stay in the default metering mode, prepare for blown out characters. I usually take this a step further by also dialing in -1 as my exposure compensation. It’s easy to brighten dark spots than to recover blown highlights. You’ll also want to adjust your focusing mode to ensure that you’re continuously focusing. Again, moving characters, so you want to be tracking focus on those movements.

As for exposure settings, I like to go with aperture priority with a wide open aperture (f/2.8 on my lens), with auto ISO, setting a base, and a minimum shutter speed. Reasonable minds may vary on the use of aperture priority mode, and not every camera has as solid of auto ISO options as Nikon DSLRs, but I think it’s the best option.

For minimum and maximum ISOs, go with the minimums and maximums your camera allows. I’ll explain why later. A lot of the activity in Fantasmic happens fast, so I recommend setting a minimum shutter speed of 1/200th of a second (sometimes I go slightly faster, sometimes slower). You still might get some blur with this, but you will get a lot of sharp shots, and this will prevent you from constantly maxing out your ISO and ending up with too much noise in your photos.

The reason for these settings instead of, say, full manual mode or shutter priority, which might seem like the intuitive options is simple: the Maleficent Dragon Scene. I find this to be far and away the best scene in Fantasmic for photos. This is especially true in Disneyland, where Murphy the Dragon is truly a sight to behold.

This scene in all versions is also much brighter than most of the rest of the show (thanks to fire) and its intensity changes during the course of the scene. If you use manual mode, you’ll blow shots in this scene unless you’re really quick with settings.

Shutter priority is better than manual mode, but it doesn’t allow for the dynamic auto ISO settings, meaning you have to preset your ISO, which I prefer not to do. For the dragon scene in particular, you’ll either have to change your ISO setting you there’s a chance you’ll inadvertently have your ISO too high, and have noise when no noise was “necessary.”

This scene can be difficult to photograph not just because of the settings required to tackle it, but because smoke and heat can obscure the scene. The heat can make Mickey blurry (sometimes this looks cool and adds to the scene), and smoke can drift in front of the scene and cause problems, too. Challenging photography, indeed!

For example, with the photo above, I was in aperture priority with my aperture at f/2.8, my minimum shutter speed at 1/125th of a second, my minimum ISO at 100, and my maximum ISO at 6400. For most of the show, my shots were at ISO 5000 or above. However, for this shot, the ISO plummeted to ISO 360! That meant a photo with far less noise, but otherwise “ideal” settings. Unless I was ridiculously quick to change my settings, if I shot this in shutter priority, I would’ve ended up with a higher aperture (which wouldn’t have been a real benefit) and a higher ISO.

This is the main reason why I recommend aperture priority and auto ISO for Fantasmic! Hopefully with this information, you’ll be able to take great shots of Fantasmic, too. Just remember, you’re bound to get some (many) bad shots, so don’t get discouraged…just be ready for the dragon scene.

Overall, Fantasmic is an excellent show at every park at which it’s shown. While my personal favorite is Disneyland’s Fantasmic, they are all a ton of fun, and feature some gorgeous imagery and special effects. Seeing Fantasmic at Disneyland is difficult, as the show is incredibly popular and the seating area is very small. It’s less of a challenge at the other two parks. At all of them, it’s worth the time and effort. It’s also worth the effort to try photographing the show, as it looks gorgeous in photos!

Planning a Southern California vacation? For park admission deals, read Tips for Saving Money on Disneyland Tickets . Learn about on-site and off-site hotels in our Anaheim Hotel Reviews & Rankings . For where to eat, check out our Disneyland Restaurant Reviews . For unique ideas of things that’ll improve your trip, check out What to Pack for Disney . For comprehensive advice, consult our Disneyland Vacation Planning Guide . Finally, for guides beyond Disney , check out our Southern California Itineraries for day trips to Los Angeles, Laguna Beach, and tons of other places!

Your Thoughts

What’s your favorite viewing location for Fantasmic? Do you typically do the dining package, standby, or have a different strategy for seeing the show? Bummed that there’s no virtual queue for Fantasmic? Have you tried photographing Fantasmic? Any other tips you can offer? Hearing from you is half the fun of these articles, so share your thoughts and any other tips you might have in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

PLEASE come back May 19th! Even in modified form, I would be fine with that. I will be at Disneyland for my first visit ever that week. I am a long-time goer to Walt Disney World and Fantasmic is my favorite show! The 19th is literally the last evening I will be there! I so hoped I would get to see it at Disneyland, as I heard it is better (I have yet to see the new WDW version).

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Disneyland Fantasmic: 2023 In-Depth Guide

Los Angeles Events

Disneyland Fantasmic! is on hiatus. Wondering when is Fantasmic coming back to Disneyland ? Our sources say to look for the beloved show to return around Labor Day.

Get lost in stunning colors, lights, and attractions as darkness falls at Fantasmic Disneyland! Bring the entire gang for a nighttime show like no other at the Happiest Place on Earth.

From cool projections to superb pyrotechnics, there’s a solid selection of impressive special effects to be experienced at Fantasmic . J oin Mickey Mouse and your other favorite Disney friends as they battle it out and win against epic villains.

Take the chance to meet and greet other characters like Anna, Elsa, Nemo, and more, too!

Related Post: Ultimate Guide to Disneyland: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals

This event will be full of surprises for all ages, from a fantastic lineup of live performances to incredible laser lights and perfectly timed fountains.

Follow along to uncover all the magical moments at Fantasmic Disneyland!

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tickets

Fantasmic! is included with your Disneyland ticket . However, at this time, Fantasmic cancelled its shows indefinitely. Theme park parking and reservation are required.

Nearby Hotels and Lodging

There’s no greater feeling than returning to a relaxing room after a long day of standing and walking at Disneyland. The good thing is, there are nearby hotels to rest your tired bones.

Book the best accommodations with Tripster:

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Anaheim at Disneyland Park
Hotel 414 Anaheim
Anaheim Discovery Inn & Suites
Alamo Inn and Suites
Desert Palms Hotel and Suites

Disneyland Discount Tickets

If you want to experience the pleasure of Disneyland without spending up your travel budget, you’re in luck. These discount tickets from Tripster can make that possible:

2 Day - One Park Per Day Ticket – SAVE up to $7
3 Day - One Park Per Day Ticket – SAVE up to $21
4 Day - One Park Per Day Ticket – SAVE up to $23
5 Day - One Park Per Day Ticket – SAVE up to $23
2 Day - Park Hopper Ticket – SAVE up to $9
3 Day - Park Hopper Ticket – SAVE up to $24
4 Day - Park Hopper Ticket – SAVE up to $26
5 Day - Park Hopper Ticket – SAVE up to $27
2 Day - 1 Park per Day with Genie+ - SAVE up to $9
2 Day - Park Hopper with Genie+ - SAVE up to $10
3 Day - 1 Park per Day with Genie+ - SAVE up to $25
3 Day - Park Hopper with Genie+ - SAVE up to $29
4 Day - 1 Park per Day with Genie+ - SAVE up to $29
4 Day - Park Hopper with Genie+ - SAVE up to $32
5 Day - 1 Park per Day with Genie+ - SAVE up to $31
5 Day - Park Hopper with Genie+ - SAVE up to $34

Disneyland Vacation Packages

Delve into the culture and sights of California by bundling your Disneyland tickets with these other fun area attractions:

Disneyland Hotel and Ticket Packages
Disneyland and Universal Packages
Disneyland & LEGOLAND® California Combo Tickets
LEGOLAND and Disneyland Package
Disneyland and LEGOLAND Combo Tickets
Disneyland and San Diego Zoo Tickets
Disneyland and SeaWorld Packages

Disneyland Fantasmic! Event Highlights

Disneyland fantasmic dining package.

Savor a superb three-course meal at River Belle Terrace or Blue Bayou while seated on an outdoor patio or indoor space, then have the best time at Fantasmic! from your reserved viewing area.

The Fantasmic! dining package is the most comfortable way to experience the magical, pyrotechnic splendor of the show.

Blue Bayou Restaurant Menu

Choose from an array of delicious offerings, including the following:

Hearts of Palm Escabèche
Roasted Mushroom Ragu Pasta
Monte Cristo Sandwich & Seasonal Salad
Specialty non-alcoholic drink
Fantasmic! specialty dessert.

To see seating areas or to book this package, you can check out the Check Availability feature.

Package Pricing

Lunch: $89 (Guest ages 10+) $35 (Guest ages 3 through 9)
Dinner: $89 (Guest ages 10+) $35 (Guest ages 3 through 9)

Lunch starts at 11:00 AM and dinner starts a 4:00 PM.

River Belle Terrace Menu

Choose from the regular menu or special items. Munch on plenty of treats, such as the following:

Loaded potato bites
Petite New York steak and scallops
Pan-roasted shrimp
White chocolate raspberry trifle or chocolate rocky road cake

Reserve this dining package a month ahead.

Lunch: $50 per adult
Dinner: $75 per adult; $45 per child (ages 3 to 9); $30 per child ages 3 to 9

Tax and gratuity are not included.

Time: Lunch starts at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM for dinner.

Fantasmic! On-the-Go Package at Hungry Bear Restaurant

Fill your stomach with Southern favorites when you dine at Hungry Bear restaurant.

Don’t miss this down-home menu served just for this show:

Barbecued pork ribs
Grilled salmon salad or a half-chicken barbecued with seasonal vegetables, bacon potato salad, dessert, and a beverage
Plant-based sloppy joe sandwich with fresh fruit, dessert, and beverage.
Barbecued ribs
Mac and cheese
Plant-based sloppy joe slider

About Disneyland Fantasmic!

When the sun goes down, stunning projections and colorful lights transform the Rivers of America into a perfect venue for Fantasmic!

Catch Sorcerer Mickey Mouse in this incredible live show where he will conduct movie clips from Fantasia on gigantic screens of water. Elegant princesses, swashbuckling pirates, pink elephants, and others - plus iconic scenes from Disney favorites, including The Lion King, Aladdin, Tangled and more - will play on the Rivers of America.

Related Post: Insider's Guide to Disneyland

While Fantasmic Mickey Mouse is abruptly absorbed into the Magic Mirror, his lovely dream turns into a frightening one. The Evil Queen from Snow White summons up many of Disney's meanest villains, such as Maleficent and a 45-foot Fantasmic dragon. Mickey must do all he can to beat the foes!

Showing extremely talented live performers, favorite Disney characters, advanced projections, and breathtaking pyrotechnics, this attraction is sure to impress. If you're wondering, "How long is Fantasmic Disneyland?", it lasts about 15 minutes.

Note: Due to some scary parts of the show, children under 14 years old must be accompanied by a guest 18 years old or older.

Best Viewing Locations

The Fantasmic! show is located along the Rivers of America and New Orleans Square. The viewing location won't have proper seating for the show.

The best place to watch Fantasmic Disneyland 2023 is right in front of the stage along the Rivers of America, so come early to save a place. The designated standby viewing is first come first served, which is why we recommend arriving hours before the actual showing of Fantasmic.

Related Post: Los Angeles on a Budget: How to Save BIG With a Go City Pass

Some of the best places to stake out include the following:

Walkways along Rivers of America
Around New Orleans
The bridge over Pirates of the Caribbean
Sections of the Walkway near River Belle Terrace
Nearby Haunted Mansion or Tom Sawyer's Island

Other Attractions and Events in Disneyland

Mickey's mix magic.

Sing your lungs out at Mickey's Mix Magic, a spectacle filled with classic song tracks, colorful projections, and stirring laser lights. On selected nights, marvelous fireworks will make the occasion more magical.

Get ready to be fascinated by the astonishing displays of sights and sounds that are sure to excite!

DJ Mickey plays a variety of remixed Disney songs, including the following:

It’s a Good Time
I Wanna Be Like You
Ev’rybody Wants To Be A Cat
Friend Like Me
Grim Grinning Ghosts
Un Poco Loco
It’s a Good Time (Finale)

Wondrous Journeys

Bask in awe as Sleeping Beauty Castle turns into an enchanting setting for the awaited Wondrous Journeys. World-class artists and Disney characters will wow the audience with their live performances featuring incredible music, stunning technology, and sensational fireworks displays on select nights!

World of Color

Gaze in astonishment as jets of colored water shoot into the air and timed fireworks burst in a blaze of shining colors. The magic of light, fire, and water plus music come together to honor storytelling.

Take a trip down memory lane as clips and soundtracks from beloved Disney and Pixar films are shown on a grand fountain. The show also features special lasers. So, you’re in for a treat.

Two restaurants offer dining packages for this event. Both cost the same and have the same options for great views. The viewing areas are well-centered, but people in the front row will have a better view than others. So, save a spot in the front if you want to take in all the sights.

Fireworks at Disneyland Park

Thousands of people have gathered around to watch the incredible display of color and light at this fireworks attraction. Behold spectacular views, iconic music, and even character appearances at this awaited event.

Plus, take the chance to watch fireworks with your favorite characters, like Mickey Mouse Fantasmic version and his gang.

Disneyland After Dark: Throwback Nite

Travel back in time to the '60s and see how Disneyland Park operates with Disneyland After Dark: Throwback Nite! Make sure to swing by in your most sophisticated attire to immerse yourself in the experience.

Between live music and shows joined by Disney cast members, there will be specialty photo sessions to capture the event. Of course, you'll have to snap a selfie with some of the classic Disney Characters.

Related Post: The Ultimate Guide to LA Theme Parks

This is a separately ticketed event with limited availability, so book your tickets as early as now. It will be held on April 18, 2023, and April 20, 2023.

Disney Junior Dance Party!

Shake your body to live music during the event. Alongside dancing with your pals, you'll get to party with your beloved Disney Junior show characters, plus Mickey and Minnie Mouse. The entertainment lasts about 15 minutes and happens on March 28, 2023. It can be experienced at Walt Disney World.

Know Before You Go Disneyland Fantasmic!

"What time is Fantasmic at Disneyland?" you may wonder. It may not happen daily and show times are subject to change. Always check Disneyland’s entertainment schedule or the Disneyland app for any updates.

When it comes to the Fantasmic Dining Package Disneyland, reservations are highly recommended. Use the Disneyland app to book the package 60 days before the event. Always check your reservation schedule and arrive 30 minutes before your visit.

Fantasmic Disneyland Venue

The show is located at 1313 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92803.

Fantasmic! Date and Time

"What time is the Fantasmic show at Disneyland?" Fantasmic! happens on March 28, 2023, at 9:30 PM and 10:30 PM.

Experience Fantasmic Disneyland!

Hang out with your favorite characters and witness enthralling laser lights and jets shooting into the air at Fantasmic Disneyland 2023. Plus, re-live the scenes and music from your beloved Pixar and Disney films as they soar to life onto a grand fountain. Finally, watch the fireworks as they brighten the sky with the whole family.

Feel the magic and dazzle your senses with the outdoor nighttime spectacular performances and attractions. Your little ones will surely enjoy joining Mickey and his friends for a mystical after-hours affair.

Related Post: Disneyland on a Budget: The Step-by-Step Planning Guide

Don't forget to take pictures as a souvenir of this special day! There are never-ending ways to enjoy the most-awaited Fantasmic at Disneyland Celebration.

What are you waiting for? Celebrate the magic and grab your Disneyland tickets today!

Written By Anne Joyce

Anne is a Filipino writer who formerly managed and created marketing strategies and materials for numerous websites and eCommerce platforms. Now, her voice s ...

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The Disneyland ‘Fantasmic!’ show that went up in flames is shelved until at least Labor Day

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The vanquishing of a dragon is often a harbinger of good times in various folklore. For Disneyland fans, however, the fiery loss of a fire-spewing creature is ushering in an era of darkness.

Disneyland is extending its pause of the twice-nightly “Fantasmic!” fireworks, light and music show until at least Labor Day, which falls on Sept. 4, the resort announced recently.

“Our goal is to always deliver the best possible show for our guests,” according to a Disney statement. “With that in mind, we’ve made the difficult decision to put ‘Fantasmic!’ on hiatus.”

The last performance took place on the evening of April 22, when the 45-foot-tall animatronic dragon, nicknamed “Murphy” by fans , burst into flames toward the show’s climactic final fight with Mickey Mouse. The Disneyland show was initially suspended until May 28 . Now it will be dark throughout the busy summer tourist season.

Tourists and fans were evacuated, though no injuries were reported that evening.

Mickey Mouse tangles with a fire-breathing dragon in the Disneyland show "Fantasmic!"

Watch as fire-breathing dragon bursts into flames during Disneyland’s Fantasmic show

A fire erupted Saturday night during Disneyland’s Fantasmic fireworks and light show, forcing throngs of stunned fans to evacuate the area.

April 23, 2023

Immediately after the mishap, Disney suspended similar fire shows , including a dragon float at Walt Disney World in Florida.

The misadventure came a week after Disneyland and California Adventure Park turnstiles were temporarily disabled because of a computer glitch, causing hundreds to wait outside the park.

The “Fantasmic!” closure has left some fans disappointed.

“It’s very sad to lose the show as part of our routine,” said Disneyland Instagram influencer Cassie Estifan , 34, who drives to Anaheim from Escondido with her husband and two children four to five times a month. “My kids love the show because of all the characters and my husband and I love it because we grew up on it.”

Estifan said she’s cherished “Fantasmic!” from childhood and visited the park every weekend, trekking then from her family home in Santa Clarita.

“It was a big deal for my family then, as a child, and now,” Estifan said. “To watch the show with my kids is special and will definitely be missed.”

Encino resident Sara Guggenheim adored the show when she first witnessed a performance on her fifth birthday.

“What I loved about the show is that it had all the characters — from every princess to Maleficent to classic characters,” Guggenheim said. “I just remember at the end that Mickey defeated evil and as a 5-year-old, it was amazing.”

Despite visiting Disneyland about four to six times a year, Guggenheim said she hadn’t watched “Fantasmic!” in its entirety for years.

“I had wanted to see the show this summer and it’s something that I look forward to and was planning for,” Guggenheim said. “To know I won’t be able to see it this summer and maybe even this year is disappointing.”

Dragon on fire at #fantasmic at Disneyland. Insane pic.twitter.com/B68UWr79pE — Ryan Laux (@ryanlauxcreates) April 23, 2023

In its statement, Disney said its “teams are actively exploring alternative entertainment offerings for guests this summer” and said more updates would follow.

Employees who worked on the show will probably be redeployed throughout the park or offered cross-training opportunities, according to Disney.

“I would hope that Disney could put on some sort of show with the characters, the boat and the music in the meanwhile,” Estifan said. “That allows show workers to continue to be employed and fans to enjoy other parts of the show.”

Disney did not respond to requests for comment on the cause of the animatronic fire.

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Andrew J. Campa is a member of the Fast Break team at the Los Angeles Times, having previously covered the Eastside and San Gabriel Valley. Before, he worked at several medium and small daily newspapers and has covered education, sports and general news. He’s a proud University of Alabama (#RollTide), Cal State Fullerton and Pasadena City College alumnus.

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An Attraction in Disneyland

Last updated: May 3, 2023

At a Glance

Note: In late April, 2023 the dragon from Fantasmic! suffered from a fire which caused significant damage to the show’s infrastructure. We expect Fantasmic! to be closed for the foreseeable future.

Fantasmic! is a mixed-media show presented one or more times each evening that the park is open late (10 p.m. or later). Staged at the end of Tom Sawyer Island opposite the Frontierland and New Orleans Square waterfronts, Fantasmic! was at its debut the most extraordinary and ambitious outdoor spectacle ever attempted in any theme park. Starring Mickey Mouse in his role as the sorcerer's apprentice from Fantasia , the production uses lasers, images projected on a shroud of mist, fireworks, lighting effects, and music in combinations so stunning that you can scarcely believe what you have seen.

The plot is simple: good versus evil. The story gets lost in all the special effects at times, but no matter -- it is the spectacle, not the story line, that is so overpowering. While beautiful, stunning, and powerful are words that immediately come to mind, they fail to convey the uniqueness of this presentation. In recent years, the production has been upgraded with brighter high-definition projectors and a 45-foot-tall full-bodied fire-breathing dragon (nicknamed Murphy) for the finale. It could be argued, with some validity, that Fantasmic! alone is worth the price of Disneyland Park admission. Needless to say, we rate Fantasmic! as not to be missed.

Audio Description
May Remain in Wheelchair/ECV

Touring Tips

Fantasmic Dining Packages

Fantasmic! dining packages are available at River Belle Terrace . The Premium Package ($75 for adults, $45 for children) includes either an entree from the regular menu, or items exclusive to Fantasmic! dining package guests, as well as ticket for a special preferred viewing area. The Standard Package ($50 for adults, $30 for children). The Premium Package can be reserved up to 60 days in advance, while the Standard Package can only be purchased day of.

Dining packages include a selection from the restaurant's menu and a ticket for a special preferred viewing area. The Premium Package dinner takes place at 7:15 PM. The Standard Package begins at 11 AM for lunch and 4 PM for dinner. While the meals themselves are certainly overpriced, the ease of entry and expansive elbowroom afforded by preferred passes are almost worth the expense.

Although access to some sections may be restricted to those purchasing various dining packages, within a section Fantasmic! viewing spots are first-come, first-serve for all guests. The viewing area is located in along the water front from center stage to the Tom Sawyer Island. You can enter the dining section near the Harbour Galley restaurant beginning 30 minutes before each show time, and the earlier you get in line, the better spot you will obtain.

Reservations for all Fantasmic! dining packages can be made online at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland/fantasmic-dinner-packages/ or by calling the Disneyland Dining line at 714-781-3463.

Fantasmic Stand-By Viewing

Disney also offers limited stand-by viewing for all showings. Be warned that the standby viewing area is not the best spot to see the show due to being located at the far left and far end of the viewing area. You're going to be looking at the side of the show rather than the front of it. The stand-by line begins one hour before show time and is located between the Harbour Galley restaurant and the Tom Sawyer Island raft dock. The stand-by viewing section is small and may fill up quickly. Plan to get in line as soon as it opens one hour before show time. And note that everyone will be asked to stand-up (no ground-sitting) 10-30 minutes prior to showtime.

You'll probably spend some time sitting around waiting for Fantasmic! to start. A mom from Lummi Island, Washington, dismantled her Disney stroller to make a nest:

We used the snap-off cover on the rental stroller to sit on during Fantasmic! since the ground was really cold.

Along similar lines, a middle-aged New York man wrote, saying:

Your excellent guidebook also served as a seat cushion while seated on the ground waiting for the show to begin. Make future editions thicker for greater comfort.

Rain and wind conditions sometimes cause Fantasmic! to be canceled. Unfortunately, Disney officials usually do not make a final decision about whether to proceed or cancel until just before showtime. Note that if you purchased a Fantasmic! dining package earlier in the day you will not not be refunded if a show is canceled.

If you see the first Fantasmic! showing, stick in place afterwards for the nightly fireworks, which should start a few minutes later. If attending the second performance, you’ll be prevented from entering the New Orleans waterfront until all the earlier guests have exited the viewing areas.

Finally, make sure to hang on to children during Fantasmic! and to give them explicit instructions for regrouping in the event you are separated. Be especially vigilant when the crowd disperses after the show.

Other attractions you might like Users who like Fantasmic!, generally also like:

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Best Fantasmic Viewing & Seating Spots at Disneyland

With thrilling action sequences, impressive special effects, familiar music, well-loved characters and an epic battle between good and evil starring Sorcerer Mickey, if there’s one Disney show that’s a must-see, it’s Fantasmic!, Disneyland’s long-running show.

Unfortunately, since this fan-favorite Disney Parks show is as challenging to get a good view as it is iconic, Disney’s Fantasmic! can require a lot of planning. So, if you’re hoping to catch the show on your upcoming vacation, keep reading for our guide on everything from where to watch Fantasmic! to what characters you can see.

What is Disney’s Fantasmic?

Making its debut in 1992, Fantasmic! is a popular nighttime entertainment offering combining pyrotechnics, lasers, unique water and plenty of Disney characters, both actual and through projection. At its core, the storyline pits good (Mickey Mouse, taking up the sorcerer’s apprentice mantle once more, and his pals) against evil (Disney villains like Maleficent in her fire-breathing-dragon form, the Evil Queen and Pirates of the Caribbean. Best of all, this nighttime spectacular is included with the park admission provided with your Disneyland tickets (i.e., completely free !).

Does Fantasmic! show every night?

Disneyland’s Fantasmic! typically runs at least once per night during the off-season or slower nights of the week or twice on busier nights, with showtimes usually at 9 PM and 10:30 PM. Each show lasts 25 minutes. Since the schedule is subject to change and there can be nights with no showings at all, we suggest you refer to the Disneyland app for the daily entertainment schedule. The early show is always the busiest.

Do you need reservations for Fantasmic?

Normally, seating can be reserved with a Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Package. Reservations are recommended for those booking Fantasmic! dining packages.

What characters are in Fantasmic! Disneyland?

With characters from such beloved films as Tangled , Pirates of the Caribbean , The Little Mermaid , Beauty and the Beast , The Lion King , Aladdin, The Jungle Book and more, Fantasmic! is perfect for Disney character spotting. See everyone from common characters like Cinderella, Snow White and Aurora to Pinocchio, Flynn Rider, Rafiki and Moana. For fans of Disney Villains, the fire-breathing Maleficent dragon is always a crowd-pleaser. And, of course, don’t forget the Big Cheese himself: Mickey Mouse!

Is there seating for Fantasmic Disneyland?

During the original run of Fantasmic at Disneyland, there were no official seating areas for the show. Guests were required to stand if they wanted to view the show around Rivers of America, which is where the Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia set sail earlier in the day. However, guests can now reserve seating with the Fantasmic Dining Package, with viewing areas located in New Orleans Square.

Best Viewing Spots for Disneyland Fantasmic!

Closing out your day at Disneyland with a showing of Fantasmic! is a must for anyone visiting The Happiest Place on Earth. So, you’re probably wondering, “Where should I sit for Fantasmic! at Disneyland?”

In general, the show’s central stage area on Tom Sawyer’s Island and three water projection screens make it so you can easily see the show from many areas overlooking Rivers of America, as do the numerous character-laden watercraft that float past. So, as long you arrive early, steer clear of the far-right and far-left sides and have a good view of the stage on Tom Sawyer Island ( New Orleans Square is a great spot), you won’t feel like you’re missing out on any of the action. In other words, if you find yourself in front of the Haunted Mansion, you’ve gone too far.

Dark sky, Large White Building Surrounded by Greenery Outside Disney's Haunted Mansion Attraction

However, that doesn’t mean all seats are created equal. (After all, you don’t want mediocre seats to see Mickey Mouse take on the likes of the Maleficent dragon.) When it comes to the best places to watch Fantasmic! at Disneyland, it depends on which viewing option you choose.

Since everything happens on the water and island, spots closest to the riverside provide the best views (along with the possibility of getting wet). Central viewing locations in front of the stage are the cream of the crop and are reserved for Fantasmic! Dining Package viewers.

While in the past, outer sections of the viewing area along the waterfront have been dedicated to FastPass Fantasmic! viewing. For everyone else that doesn’t secure seating with one of the dining package viewing areas, you’ll have to try your luck finding a spot in the standby area.

Map of Disneyland Fantasmic Viewing and Seating Area

Below you’ll find a map of New Orleans Square with the viewing location for Fantasmic! It has been marked with several different colors to show the best viewing areas for the show.

Blue = Best viewing area
Green = Moderate viewing area
Red = Poor/obstructed viewing area
Purple = Stage area

Standby Viewing for Fantasmic! at Disneyland

As you can imagine, with all the good seats reserved by FastPass/Disney Genie+ and the Fantasmic Dining Package, standby viewing areas offer some of the most lackluster views. Unless you get lucky, they tend to be far away from the water with sideways, occasionally obstructed views of the stage.

They’re also first come, first served. So, unless you want to wait in line for hours to secure a decent view, it’s better to show up early and keep your expectations low. And notice that we called it “standby viewing,” not “standby seating.” That’s right – the Fantasmic standby areas are standing room only.

Yellow and Green French Market Entrance Sign Above Black Entrance Gate

Overall, this option is suited best for people looking to save money, for those who consider watching Fantasmic! a bonus, or as a backup plan. However, if you do take your chances with this Fantasmic! viewing strategy, we recommend you show up at least an hour before the show starts to plan your attack, two hours before if you’re trying to watch the first showing on standby.

Disneyland cast members can be a great resource on where you might be able to find the best standby views for the night. The front of the standing section directly behind anywhere folks are seated can offer some great views. Otherwise, you can also look around the Pirates of the Caribbean bridge, between the French Market and Cafe Orleans patios and in front of Royal Street Veranda quick-service restaurant.

Disney Genie+ Seating for Fantasmic! at Disneyland

As we mentioned previously, one way to get reserved seating for Disneyland Fantasmic in the past was the now-defunct FastPass. While we thought that they might resume this with its replacement, Disney Genie+ , as of right now, this is sadly not the case. There is also no way to score a seat with a virtual queue. However, as all of this is subject to change, stay tuned for any updates that may come in the future.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Packages

Want some of the best seats at Fantasmic without having to wait it out in a long line or pay the extra money for a good view if it gets added to Disney Genie+? Then consider booking a Fantasmic! Dining Package. Disneyland meal packages are the best way to reserve VIP seats for Fantasmic.

Each package gives guests access to some of the best seats in the house, without having to wait in line, while also including meals from some of the park’s most popular restaurants – namely Blue Bayou, River Belle Terrace and Hungry Bear Restaurant.

Advance reservations are highly encouraged, although there may be some same-day reservations available on a limited basis. However, keep in mind that should the show be canceled for whatever reason, no refunds or exchanges will be given.

What does the Fantasmic! Dinner Package include?

When it comes to the Fantasmic! Dining Package, Disneyland guests have a few options: a three-course meal or a convenient, to-go spread. Keep in mind that the prices below reflect the cost of the dining packages prior to the pandemic. So, don’t be surprised if prices increase with the Fantasmic! Disneyland reopening in 2022.

Three-course Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Packages include an appetizer, entrée and dessert at one of the park’s two most quintessential, table-service eateries, Blue Bayou or River Belle Terrace. The Fantasmic! On-the-Go Package comes with an entrée of your choice, along with a few cozy sides.

All three options also include one reserved viewing area voucher per person, which gives you access to your chosen restaurant’s seats. Although each restaurant typically has its own designated seating area for the first show time, that isn’t always the case if there’s a second showing. So, keep this in mind when you book.

As guests are allowed into the viewing area starting 30 minutes before the show, we suggest you show up 45 minutes prior if you want a seat right in front. Additionally, ground seating is required in the dining package reserved viewing area with the exception of wheelchair and ECV users, who will be located along the rear of each section near the strollers .

Blue Bayou Restaurant

Savor a three-course meal inspired by the flavors of Cajun and Creole cooking at this iconic Disneyland restaurant. The Blue Bayou section is right in the middle of Rivers of America down near the water, which is arguably the best view of any Disneyland Fantasmic Dining Package. Plus, this meal is also the only option to have included seat cushions in the past. Talk about luxury !

Lunch: Seating starts at 11:30 AM; $62 (plus tax & gratuity) per adult, $29 per child (ages 3 to 9)
Dinner: Seating starts at 4 PM; $75 per adult, $30 per child

River Belle Terrace

Tuck into three courses of homey, comfort food classics before enjoying your Fantasmic! Disneyland reserved seats. Seating for the regular package is located to the central right of the stage overlooking the water. Or, upgrade to the premium seating package to get truly VIP seats for Fantasmic! – on the restaurant’s outdoor patio at your dining table on actual chairs – and turn your meal into a makeshift Disney dinner show . (Premium package reservations must be made at the restaurant)

Regular Package

Lunch: Seating starts at 1 PM; $45 per adult, $25 per child
Dinner: Seating starts at 4 PM; $45 per adult, $25 per child

Premium Package

Dinner: Seating starts at 4 PM; $70 per adult, $40 per child

Hungry Bear Restaurant

For reserved seats at a budget-friendly price, the Fantasmic! On-the-Go Package is for you. Choose from a selection of Southern-inspired entrées prior to your arrival day, then pick your feast, along with some yummy sides, between 3 PM and 8 PM. From there, simply eat at one of the restaurant’s tables or anywhere else you’d like around the park before you head to your reserved Fantasmic! seats facing the left side of the stage.

$30 (plus tax) per adult, $20 per child

Is the Fantasmic! Dining Package worth it at Disneyland?

For the reserved seats without a wait and a great meal, we think the Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Package is definitely worth it. After all, you have to eat anyway! So, you might as well save yourself some sweet seats in the process.

Sure, the prices can get expensive, especially if you eat at Blue Bayou or the premium package at River Belle Terrace. Although taking into account the included seat cushion from Blue Bayou, that steep price tag seems much more worthwhile.

Or, for those on a budget, the On-the-Go Package at Hungry Bear Restaurant and the regular River Belle Terrace option are much more reasonable, especially for a sit-down, three-course meal or a filling, to-go comfort food spread with all the fixins. Add in the convenience of not having to wait it out for a good view, and we think it’s well worth the cost.

Tips & Tricks for Watching Disney’s Fantasmic!

Want to make the most of this quintessential Disneyland experience? Just follow these simple suggestions to make this magical show even more enjoyable.

It’s easier to get a closer view on standby at the second showing of Fantasmic. If you don’t have reserved viewing, you’re better off sticking around to watch Fantasmic’s second showing since there tends to be a post-show exodus, especially on nights with fireworks.
Watch both Fantasmic! and the Disneyland fireworks from Rivers of America. On evenings with fireworks , catch both the pyrotechnic extravaganza and Fantasmic! from Rivers of America. The display’s accompanying music is played, its projections splayed across the mist screens, and it’s truly a delight. For those going to the first show of the night, the fireworks typically start just a few minutes after Fantasmic! ends. Then, once they leave, everyone waiting in the wings can take their place.
Don’t sit near the water if you don’t want to get wet. People sitting closest to the water are apt to get splashed. So, plan to watch from a little (or a lot) further back if you’d rather stay dry.
Keep an eye on your kiddos – the show can be scary for some children. With flashing lights, loud noises and frightening villains, Fantasmic! can be scary for some little ones . So, be prepared to step in with hugs and reassurances if necessary and consider watching the show ahead of time on YouTube to note potentially problematic moments.

Well, Fantasmic! fans, that’s our guide to experiencing this iconic Disneyland attraction. What is your favorite Fantasmic! viewing location? Let us know in the comments!

Then, learn how to get the most out of your day with our 1-Day Disneyland Park Plan . Trying to save some cash instead? Don’t miss our discount Disneyland tickets .

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A Legendary Tale

A night when dreams come true.

The fantastic fantasy includes Disney Characters from some of your favorite animated films:

Beauty and the Beast
The Little Mermaid
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Know Before You Go

For showtimes, please check our Entertainment Schedule or the My Disney Experience app .

The amphitheater curves around the lagoon, so wherever you’re seated, you’re perfectly situated to experience the action. Guests sitting in the first couple of rows may get wet during the performance.

Please have your entire party together before entering the amphitheater. You may arrive as early as 90 minutes prior to each show. Be sure to arrive early to get a seat!

Since this is an outdoor show, it is also subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Showtimes are subject to change.

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NEWS: PRICE INCREASES Announced for Fantasmic Dining Packages in Disney World

By Sara McOmber Leave a Comment

We recently saw TONS of price increases affect restaurant menus throughout the Disney World theme parks and hotels, but one more major change just hit an exclusive experience in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Hollywood Studios

Fantasmic! is a popular nighttime show in Hollywood Studios , featuring Sorcerer Mickey as he takes on some of Disney’s most infamous villains with the help of all kinds of heroes. You can attend the show for free (with a valid Hollywood Studios park ticket), but you can also choose to purchase a Fantasmic! Dining Package. A word of warning about those dining packages: They just got more expensive!

When you purchase a Fantasmic! Dining Package , you get the following:

An entrée and appetizer or dessert at select table-service restaurants or one full buffet (where applicable
One non-alcoholic beverage
One voucher for guaranteed seating at Fantasmic! in a reserved area

50’s Prime Time Cafe

Many guests choose to purchase these dining packages since it means they don’t have to wait in line for the show and are guaranteed good seats. However, you might want to think twice before buying one for your next trip, since prices on these packages just increased.

Hollywood Brown Derby

Here’s a look at the new prices:

50’s Prime Time Café : Adults — $54 (previously $51); Kids — $23 (previously $22)
Hollywood & Vine : Breakfast: Adults — $59 (previously $54); Kids — $39 (previously $36); Lunch/Dinner: Adults — $75 (previously $71); Kids — $49 (previously $47)
Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano : Adults — $56 (previously $54); Kids — $23 (previously $22)
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant : Adults — $51 (previously $49); Kids — $23 (previously $22)
The Hollywood Brown Derby : Adults — $77 (previously $73); Kids — $31 (previously $29)

There were price increases of at least a few dollars on every package.

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

We’ll continue to watch for more updates on all the latest Disney news, so stay tuned to DFB!

Click here to learn more about Fantasmic! Dining Packages.

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Disney Delays ‘Snow White’ Reboot, Debuts Suspiciously Classic-Looking ‘Dwarves’

Posted: October 28, 2023 | Last updated: October 28, 2023

After Mickey Mouse, the next most iconic character in Disney's extensive lore might actually be Snow White.

The Grimm fairy-tale-character-turned-Disney Princess was the first feature-length animated film put out by the studio and thus holds a special place in the annals of Disney history.

So imagine the consternation from Disney executives, fans and shareholders alike when the new reboot of its beloved "Snow White" was largely met with derision and outright disdain -- largely due to the raw unlikability of its lead actress, Rachel Zegler.

You see, Zegler apparently felt that the best way to show gratitude for this iconic role she just secured was to ... vomit all over the character for not being feminist enough, or some similar-minded nonsense.

Further causing headaches for the House of Mouse, a leaked photo from the movie's early filming showed that the live-action movie was also re-casting the iconic roles of Snow White's seven dwarfs in the name of some misguided sense of "inclusivity."

Hilariously, Disney denied that those set photos were real, only to backtrack and later admit that those photos were, in fact , real.

So yes, Disney has had a rough time purely in optics (never mind the bulging budgets and the various strikes that have delayed the movie) when it comes to its live reboot of this iconic movie.

When it rains, it pours, so of course The Daily Wire came around with its own version of the iconic movie (Snow White, despite her long association with Disney, is technically in the public domain. Disney owns the rights to their specific aesthetic look of Snow White, as well as the names of the seven dwarfs) in October.

Disney, in the face of all this wrath and sudden competition, has apparently tucked its tail between its legs and decided discretion is the better part of valor -- or, at the very least, it sure seems that way.

The House of Mouse dropped two new pieces of information about this beleaguered Snow White reboot, one of which was a bit more stealthily dropped than the other.

First, the obvious and stealthy update: The movie has been delayed for almost a year.

Disney announced that the movie would be released on March 21, 2025, despite an earlier advertised release date of March 22, 2024. Disney curiously failed to mention the original release date.

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And the people assuming that the movie was being re-written/re-shot were given fodder when, alongside the new release date, they were given a new glimpse of the iconic seven dwarfs, who suddenly looked much more in line with their dwarfish origins.

One intrepid social media user posted a side-by-side comparison of the then-and-now dwarfs:

BREAKING: Disney is delaying Snow White until 2025 following backlash against the woke remake

It also appears that Disney has scrapped their “diversity creatures” in favor of CGI dwarves that look similar to the original pic.twitter.com/czTsNllpJF

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) October 27, 2023

Look, maybe Disney really was rocked by the strikes and needed a year to readjust. The company has a laundry list of issues it's currently dealing with, and a firestorm of speculation surrounding one of its most iconic characters isn't what the studio probably wants.

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Whatever the truth of the situation may be, Disney certainly won't divulge it -- they have to keep up appearances, after all -- but it's pretty clear all is not well in the House of Mouse.

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Fantasmic! Finally saw this show for the first time our last trip. :) Disney Life, Disney Dream

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Fantasmic!
Daring heroes and epic villains do battle on a grand scale during Fantasmic!, an incredible nighttime show at Disneyland Park in Southern California.
Disneyland Fantasmic! 2023 Guide
Disneyland Fantasmic! 2023 guide on returning date, Fantasmic times, viewing area map, Fantasmic! dining packages, tips on viewing. ... The length of the show is 27 minutes and during peak times of year there are two show times at 9PM and 10:30PM. If you're visiting during a peak time of year (summer, holidays, spring break) you can expect ...
Fantasmic!
(January 2021) Fantasmic! is a nighttime show at Disneyland and Disney's Hollywood Studios. The show formerly operated at Tokyo DisneySea. It features fireworks, characters, live actors, water effects, pyrotechnics, lasers, music, audio-animatronics, searchlights, decorated boat floats, and mist screen projections.
How Long is Fantasmic!?
Fantasmic! is considered a must-do for many Disney World visitors — and that means you need to plan ahead to fit it into your day. So, you may be wondering how long this nightly show is. While Fantasmic! used to have a run time of about 25 minutes, the new scenes have added to it, and now Fantasmic! is 29 minutes long.
OPENING TIMELINE Revealed for Updated Fantasmic! in Disneyland
By Samantha Kendall Posted on July 26, 2023 Disney entertainment is second to none — on the big screen and in the parks. ©️Disney But lately, an iconic show has been missing from Disneyland. Fantasmic! suffered a fire-related incident back in April, and the show has been suspended since.
Fantasmic! at Disneyland
Fantasmic! is a very popular show that debuted in 1992 as an attempt to pull crowds over into the space that borders the Rivers of America. The show includes both water and pyrotechnics and can be scary for little ones. There are plenty of children at the show.
Disneyland Fantasmic! Guide 2023: Dining Packages, Seating Tips, Times
Show Overview, Scary For Kids? Advice for Non-Fantasmic! Viewers - RIDE ON! Did we miss something amazing? Share your tips & tricks below and on our Facebook page. Fantasmic! at Disneyland 2023 Show Times Currently the Disneyland entertainment schedule indicates that Fantasmic! will perform twice nightly at 9 pm and 10:30 pm.
Fantasmic at Disneyland: The Complete Guide
Fantasmic! originated at Disneyland in 1992 to reinvigorate the space in front of Rivers of America. Walt Disney Creative Entertainment created the nighttime spectacular involving water and fireworks. Fantasmic! opened in 1992, just a few days before the riots that erupted after the acquittal of the Los Angeles police officers involved in the ...
'Fantasmic!' Celebrates 30 Years Today and Gears ...
Some updates have been made to "Fantasmic!" at Disneyland park through the years. An enhanced version of the original "Fantasmic!" presentation premiered in 2009, featuring digital projections and the spectacular 45-foot-tall fire-breathing Maleficent dragon. The show then added even more new magic in 2017, including new scenes and ...
Fantasmic!
Fantasmic! by Mary Jo Willey Disneyland Travel Specialist [email protected] (Show began in 1992) Fantasmic is shown nightly during peak season, and on weekends during non-peak season When scheduled, the show times are typically 9:00pm and 10:30pm (2nd show during peak season). The show lasts approximately 20 minutes. (Check the Disneyland daily guide for current show times) Fantasmic is a must ...
Fantasmic!
Ha-ha!Mickey at the end of the show Fantasmic! is a long-running nighttime show at both Disneyland in California and Disney's Hollywood Studios in Florida, and formerly at Tokyo DisneySea. It is about the power of the imagination, showcased by Mickey experiencing a dream... Some imagination, huh?
Guide to Fantasmic at Disneyland: Best Viewing & Seating Spots
In this guide, we'll offer tips & tricks watching Fantasmic at Disneyland, best & worst views, sitting & standing locations to see the nighttime spectacular, whether dining packages are worth the money, and suggestions for taking better photos of this impressive Disney nighttime spectacular. (Updated April 27, 2023.)
Fantasmic! Dining Package in Disneyland
Package Pricing. Lunch: $50 per adult; $30 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax and gratuity not included. Dinner: $50 per adult; $30 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax and gratuity not included. Book dining packages through the Disneyland app or by calling (714) 781-DINE (3463).
Fantasmic Disneyland: 2023 In-Depth Guide
Fantasmic Disneyland Venue. The show is located at 1313 S. Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA 92803. Fantasmic! Date and Time "What time is the Fantasmic show at Disneyland?" Fantasmic! happens on March 28, 2023, at 9:30 PM and 10:30 PM. Experience Fantasmic Disneyland!
The Disneyland 'Fantasmic!' show that went up in flames is shelved
April 23, 2023 Immediately after the mishap, Disney suspended similar fire shows, including a dragon float at Walt Disney World in Florida. The misadventure came a week after Disneyland and...
Fantasmic!
Fantasmic! is a mixed-media show presented one or more times each evening that the park is open late (10 p.m. or later). Staged at the end of Tom Sawyer Island opposite the Frontierland and New Orleans Square waterfronts, Fantasmic! was at its debut the most extraordinary and ambitious outdoor spectacle ever attempted in any theme park.
Best Fantasmic Viewing & Seating Spots at Disneyland
Map of Disneyland Fantasmic Viewing and Seating Area. Below you'll find a map of New Orleans Square with the viewing location for Fantasmic! It has been marked with several different colors to show the best viewing areas for the show. Blue = Best viewing area. Green = Moderate viewing area. Red = Poor/obstructed viewing area.
Fantasmic! Reportedly Returning to Disneyland This Weekend With B-Mode
Returning. According to the Disneyland website, "Fantasmic!" is scheduled for both 9:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. performances on Friday, April 28. The website has occasionally listed an erroneous schedule in the past, but several Cast Members have also reported being scheduled to return to work that day.
Fantasmic (Full Show) Disneyland
Subscribe 308K views 10 years ago #SharpProductions #ThemePark Full Fantasmic show at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, USA. Fantasmic at DisneyWorld: http://video.sharpproductions.tv/DWfa...
Fantasmic! Disneyland 2023 Full Show 4K
Full performance of Fantasmic! at Disneyland in California, from the Hungry Bear dining package viewing area. Recorded by Seth Kubersky in February 2023.----...
Fantasmic Show and Fireworks
7:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. The power of dreams blazes before you in this nighttime musical spectacular with stunning pyrotechnics and water projections at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida.
Prices Increase for Fantasmic! Dining Packages at Disney's Hollywood
Fantasmic! Dining Packages. Here is a list of the previous dining package prices: 50s Prime Time Cafe - $51 for adults, $22 for kids. Hollywood & Vine Breakfast - $54 for adults, $36 for kids. Hollywood & Vine Lunch & Dinner - $71 for adults, $47 for kids. Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano - $54 for adults, $22 for kids.
NEWS: PRICE INCREASES Announced for Fantasmic Dining Packages in Disney
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: Adults — $51 (previously $49); Kids — $23 (previously $22) The Hollywood Brown Derby: Adults — $77 (previously $73); Kids — $31 (previously $29) There were price increases of at least a few dollars on every package. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant. We'll continue to watch for more updates on all ...
Disney Delays 'Snow White' Reboot, Debuts Suspiciously Classic-Looking
The Grimm fairy-tale-character-turned-Disney Princess was the first feature-length animated film put out by the studio and thus holds a special place in the annals of Disney history. So imagine ...

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History of Fantasmic! at Disneyland

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Plan Your Disneyland Vacation!

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