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Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks

Best Places to View Disneyland FireworksOne of the most magical parts of a visit to Disneyland is seeing the fireworks at the end of the night. During some periods, we are treated to nightly fireworks (such as summer, spring break and throughout the holiday season). During less busy times, the projection shows light up our nights during the week and are accompanied by fireworks on the weekends and holidays. We'll get into more details below on the best places to view Disneyland fireworks, but you'll want a view of the castle and Main Street, U.S.A. area or the "it's a small world" facade. Rivers of America offers a nice fireworks view with music and projection for guests who stay put after watching Fantasmic! and even on nights without Fantasmic! (Note that Fantasmic is under refurbishment, returning May 24, 2024.)

The fireworks and projection shows are going to change a few times through 2024. Here's the schedule (weather permitting, of course):

  • Mickey's Mix Magic: Jan. 8 – March 21 (with fireworks on weekends only)
  • Wondrous Journeys (special presentation with nightly fireworks): March 22 – April 14
  • Mickey's Mix Magic: April 15 – 25 (with fireworks on weekend only)
  • Season of the Force (Music accompanies fireworks in Galaxy's Edge): April 5 through June 2, 2024.
  • Together Forever: April 26 – Aug. 4 (with fireworks on weekends only until nightly in summer)
  • TBD: Aug. 5 – 22
  • Halloween Screams: Aug. 23 – Oct. 31 (likely with fireworks on weekends only)
  • TBD: Nov. 1 – 14 (likely Mickey's Mix Magic with fireworks on weekends only)
  • Believe ... in Holiday Magic (with nightly fireworks): starting Nov. 15

You may notice that from April 5 through June 2, 2024, there is a lot going on with date crossovers. That's because music is added to the fireworks in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge for the Season of the Force. But it's only in that land. The rest of the park will have one of the other three shows going on concurrently. So, you'll want to plan multiple nights in the park to see all the options.

Come spring and summer, the return of Pixar Fest brings back "Together Forever — A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular." This projection show with fireworks on weekends only until summer has some all-new scenes! Pixar Fest is from April 26 through Aug. 4, 2024.

Weekly News Roundup - Disneyland Events in 2024

Together Forever lifts off with Buzz Lightyear soaring over Sleeping Beauty’s castle. "To friendship ... and beyond!" Keep an eye out for the "Up" balloons and house to fly over the castle as well. The show is choreographed with music and projection on viewing areas. Enjoy scenes from timeless Pixar tales and hits such as "Coco" and the "Incredibles 2." Plus, some recent characters are represented in the added scenes. Experience new moments from Pixar’s “Onward,” “Soul,” “Luca,” “Turning Red” and “Elemental” as they are brought to life.

Here's a look at Together Forever from 2018. (You know we will be posting a new video in 2024 to include the added scenes.)

What to Expect When Viewing Disneyland Fireworks

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Quasimodo scene in Wondrous Journeys

The Frog family members are fireworks junkies, especially Disneyland fireworks. Over the years, we've viewed spectacular shows from different spots both inside and outside of the parks. We have varying favorite locations based on the show, our time limit, plans and location. This guide to the best places to view Disneyland fireworks includes locations that work for any fireworks show. Ideally, you'll want to view any show that is heavy on projections from one of the four main viewing areas inside the park to get the full experience.

Be sure to hop over to our guide to the best Disneyland shows to get caught up on all the nighttime entertainment and other shows hoppening at Disneyland.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Small World Peter Pan

When Disneyland Forever debuted as part of the Disneyland Diamond Celebration, it forever changed the way we viewed Disneyland fireworks and set the course for future shows. Disneyland Forever introduced projection technology that displayed the images not just on the castle, but also on the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A., the façade of "it’s a small world" and water screens at Rivers of America. The technology was then applied to the return of older existing shows (such as Remember … Dreams Come True, Halloween Screams and Believe … In Holiday Magic) that have run since Disneyland Forever's first run.

The projection technology made the classic shows even more magical and was used to create new shows, such as Wondrous Journeys, Together Forever and Mickey’s Mix Magic. The projection viewing locations around the park help to spread out the crowds and give viewers multiple ways to experience the fireworks besides just cramming in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Wondrous Journeys, the fireworks show for the Disney 100 Years of Wonder Celebration, ran from January through August 2023. It returns for spring break 2024! It showcased the next generation of projection mapping. Every night, Disneyland Park became a canvas for Disney projection art, and viewers sang along to an all-new song, " It's Wondrous." All 60 films are featured in this show. The most exciting part is the appearance of the Blue Fairy and then when Baymax flies across the castle with sparks coming from his feet on both projection and fireworks nights. Here's our YouTube video of Wondrous Journeys.

There are special holiday shows for the Fourth of July, Halloween Time, the holiday season and New Year's Eve. During the holidays, generally early/mid-November to early January, you can catch nightly shows of Believe ... in Holiday Magic. Most viewing locations experience snowfall after the holiday fireworks. If you will be visiting on New Year's Eve, you will get two fireworks shows! There's the New Year's Eve fireworks countdown, along with another show, such as Mickey's Mix Magic or Fantasy in the Sky. You can even catch fireworks in Paradise Gardens Park at Disney California Adventure on New Year's Eve.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks-Holiday fireworks

Some Disneyland After Dark parties get unique fireworks shows. Mickey's Mix Magic returns in transitional times such as for magical entertainment in between Halloween Screams and Believe...  in Holiday Magic

Halloween Screams, which had been part of Mickey's Halloween Party for several years, is now available for all park guests throughout Halloween Time. In this show, the "Master of Scare-a-monies," Jack Skellington and his dog Zero (from "The Nightmare Before Christmas"), kick off our nocturnal delight. The show has projections, a thrilling soundtrack and special effects. Be aware that fireworks accompany the show only on select nights (mostly weekend nights with some exceptions), whereas the rest of the show goes on without the fireworks on all other nights. The viewing areas may vary slightly, depending on whether you are viewing the show on a fireworks night or a projection-only night.

Halloween Screams is one show that we say to wait in front of the castle if you can. The extra pyrotechnics, flying Zero and projections are worth seeing up close. We love all the fireworks shows, but Halloween Screams is a Frog Family favorite!

What if the fireworks are canceled?

Canceled? What? Does that really happen? If there are high winds at altitude, the fireworks may be canceled. In fact, we’ve seen shows that started normally with fireworks, but then, partway through, dangerous winds picked up and the fireworks stopped while the rest of the show went on with music and projection without missing a beat. It used to be a big letdown when the fireworks got canceled before or during the show, especially if you had staked out the perfect spot.

But we have exciting news! Depending on the show that is running, you may get treated to an alternate projection version of the current show or Mickey's Mix Magic instead. This popular show (with projections, music and special effects) was designed to go off with or without fireworks. It will have you dancing in the Disneyland streets and hoppy that DJ Mickey is there to spin some magic for you. So, "C'mon everybody, get your ears on. It's a good, good, good, good time!" Note that during Halloween Time, you would likely still get Halloween Screams, just without the fireworks if the fireworks portion gets canceled.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks Inside the Park

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Moana in Wondrous Journeys

Inside Disneyland Park, the fireworks are extraordinary. Any fireworks show creates a nostalgic, emotional journey through light and sound. Enhancements such as narration, flying characters and music make it worth the effort to see it in the park. These elements blend with fireworks and special effects (lighting, fire, lasers and projections) to provide a magical finale to your visit. Shows are generally at 9:30 p.m. each night. You can find the exact time in the Disneyland app. (It can be 9 p.m. in cooler months.)

Watching Disneyland fireworks from Main Street, U.S.A.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Main Street Baby

Main Street, U.S.A. is our number-one choice for watching Disneyland fireworks. Stand in the middle of Main Street, U.S.A. (from Central Plaza to the Train Station, between the buildings) for the show. You'll get the iconic castle view in the distance and are treated to projections all around you. In some shows, some elements pop out of the buildings' roofs and other special effects that you won't get anywhere else. This is also the best location for making a quick exit after the show.

Let’s talk strategy. During times when a nighttime parade is running, you can get in place a few hours early and watch the parade here and then hop in the street as soon as it passes. If you cannot secure parade viewing here, then be walking down the sidewalk of Main Street between 9:05 and 9:10 p.m. as the finale float passes, hop in the street. It will fill in quickly.

During times without a nighttime parade, such as now, you’ll see people sitting on curbs before the show, but the best view is from the middle of the street. You’ll have to judge the crowds to know when to hop in place. Eye up the area an hour before the show, but you may get lucky on less-crowded nights and hop in place maybe 30 to 60 minutes (or less) before the show on other nights.

If the street still looks empty, don’t disappear into a store for long, or you may come out a minute later and realize that everyone suddenly appeared in the street. The cast members will announce to the curb-sitters that the best view is in the middle, and everyone moves in at once. Standing in the area across from Gibson Girl should put you in a great spot to view the main projections, as well as fireworks and castle effects. Plus it snows there for some shows!

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Flagpole View

If you stand toward the back of Main Street, U.S.A. in the circle in front of the flag pole, you are slightly raised above the street crowds. You cannot see the projection as well as the people between the buildings, but you can get a pretty good overall view of the show with less obstruction from trees. Just position yourself so light poles are not blocking your view. (We, unfortunately, can't help you when it comes to other guests not following basic theme park etiquette, such as holding up cell phones or putting kids on their shoulders to block your view. They block us too.)

That spot puts you even closer to the park exit if you are leaving after the show. It's a great spot to watch if you are racing to Disney California Adventure after the fireworks to catch the second World of Color show. You have to enter Disney California Adventure before the park closes at 10 p.m. so there's no time to lose.

Getting the iconic castle view

Usually, the best fireworks view with the most effects and Disney magic is right in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s a great spot to see Disneyland projections and elements that may fly over the castle if you are OK with waiting at least two hours for a good viewing location in front of the castle. You can see projections on the Matterhorn (if there are any) from there. We like the street in front of the castle or the sidewalk on the curb just behind the front crowd for a little lift. We toadally feel it's worth camping out to get a castle view of the Halloween Screams fireworks, Together Forever (to see the "Up" house and Buzz Lightyear) and Wondrous Journeys (to see Baymax and Blue Fairy) and all the detailed scenes projected all over the castle.

Take a look at the full 2023 Halloween Screams show below:

Here's a hop tip. At some point before the show, cast members will ask all the people sitting on the ground to stand up and move forward. This is the time to move from the fringes, back and sides to the middle as space opens up. Be prepared to move in usually 30 to 45 minutes before show time to get this great spot.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - halloween screams projections

You can stand further back around the hub to get a pretty good view, but trees and distance can make it harder to see the projections. You’ll want to grab a location that is close to the castle and near the Tomorrowland side of the traffic circle with a view of the Matterhorn. There are a lot of trees, so choose a spot that does not have a tree (or umbrella) blocking your view of the castle. Some of the best, centered spots are reserved for people who booked V.I.P. tours or other packages. When in doubt, always ask a cast member for their advice on where to watch in that area. Some areas are designated walkways. You can also get an OK or slightly obstructed viewing spot here closer to showtime, but if you want a really close spot, you’ll have to put in some waiting time.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - finale of Wondrous JourneysIf you're deciding between the castle location and Main Street, U.S.A., we enjoy the Main Street, U.S.A. viewing for most shows with projections on the buildings, snowfall (with some shows or seasons), special effects and the castle ahead in the distance. Plus you can invest less time than in securing a castle view. However, we feel it's toadally worth trying to get a castle view for Halloween Screams and Wondrous Journeys. The best view is the section right in front of the castle. There is a curb at the back of that section, and if you can get on the curb, you can see over taller people in front.

If you do decide to camp out for the front-row view of the castle, there may be people walking in front of you because that becomes a walkway. It can be very distracting and take away from your experience. It's not perfect, but sometimes the best places to view Disneyland fireworks are those where you can find room to see them.

If a nighttime parade is running during your visit, you'll need to hop in place early for a parade location that is also close to the spot where you want to watch the fireworks. That means scouting out your spot about two and a half hours before the parade. You can also be walking by around the time the parade ends to get a great spot without a huge time commitment. But if you want the castle front, you'll need to invest the time.

Here's a look at the Disneyland Forever view from Sleeping Beauty Castle (and Main Street U.S.A.):

Watching Disneyland fireworks near "it's a small world"

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Fireworks Over it's a small world

One of the best places to view Disneyland fireworks is near "it's a small world." The projections are clearest on “it’s a small world” and the fireworks are close by. The fireworks get shot off behind Toontown. (Mickey never seems to complain about that, does he?) While the show is off to the left of "it's a small world," you can see and hear the fireworks well. The clear view of the projections makes this a special viewing area.

The viewing area can vary for this show. Sometimes cast members close the "it’s a small world" ride and move the viewing area back, closer to the raised areas across from "it’s a small world." They will put a rope up along the edge of the brick area. BONUS: You'll have a lot of choices in elevation with steps and raised areas that can get you above the crowd. Other times, you can get closer to the fence in front of the ride. It depends on the winds at elevation. For past fireworks shows, this area tended to be way less crowded, but we think the secret is out. You can still get great viewing at this location without the same time investment as a castle location.

When should you hop in place? Depending on other nighttime entertainment in the park, some nights are easier than others. If there is a nighttime parade, hop in place early for the parade and you will be in good shape to watch the fireworks that follow. On other nights, you can hop in place 20 to 60 minutes early, depending on park crowd levels. We suggest bringing a blanket and sending a runner for turkey legs and chimichangas at Edelweiss Snacks (Mobile Order available) to snack on while you wait. Many people remain sitting on steps, benches and the ground right in and near the raised areas, which might be good for tired families.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Projections on Small World

Here’s how to get the best view of Disneyland fireworks at "it’s a small world." You want a clean, clear view of the front panel under the clock face, so make sure that pesky attraction sign is out of your way. The sign has a hinge on the left. Cast members will open the sign and keep it that way through the show, so position yourself so that you aren't behind it and that it won't block your view of the show or the fireworks. In general, you'll want the least-obstructed view of the entire front of the "it's a small world" facade. We like standing more to the right for this show, especially on nights with fireworks. There is also a box that opens just to the lower left of the clock face.

Viewing from Rivers of America

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Rivers Of America viewing with music before Fantasmic returnsRivers of America is one of our favorite, peaceful in-park locations for viewing the fireworks because you can usually time it before or after a showing of Fantasmic! (when it runs — Fantasmic! is temporarily closed through summer 2023). It has fountains and water screens. Images are projected onto the stage area as well.

You can still see the bursts, but you won't get the full show. But since Fantasmic! is more reliable than fireworks, if you time your viewing to watch Fantasmic! and fireworks, but the fireworks end up getting canceled, at least you get to see Fantasmic! If both shows go off seamlessly, then you can enjoy two shows from one location. If the fireworks get canceled, you can make your way to Main Street U.S.A. to catch the projection show.

For an uncrowded spot to watch the fireworks, Rivers of America is a peaceful spot, especially on nights without Fantasmic! (Another good spot to see the bursts without music is Tomorrowland in front of Star Wars Launch Bay.) Music plays at Rivers of America even on nights without Fantasmic! (Snow falls there, after Believe ... in Holiday Magic at Holiday Time).

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Disneyland Forever at Rivers of America

If you are watching the 9 p.m. Fantasmic! show, just stay in place after the show ends and watch the 9:30 p.m. fireworks show from there.

New Orleans Square offers a less-obstructed fireworks view than Frontierland. After the fireworks, many people who watched the first Fantasmic! show will exit. This massive movement allows folks who want to get a good jump on a standby spot for the 10:30 p.m. Fantasmic! time to hop into place.

You'll have about three minutes between the end of Fantasmic! and the beginning of the fireworks — that’s two shows from one location! The less traveling you do in the park around fireworks time, the easier it is. Stay put, and you will not be disappointed. You'll hear the music and narration, and the projections will be shown on three water screens. We have watched from in front of the entrance to French Market, and the fireworks were perfectly centered above the Fantasmic! stage between two water screens.

In terms of Halloween Screams, cast members say that Rivers of America is a viewing area for Halloween Screams only on nights when Fantasmic! is playing (mostly weekends) and not during the week.

Viewing Disneyland fireworks from Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge 

Best Viewing Disneyland Fireworks - Star Wars

Some of the Disneyland fireworks are shot off just behind Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. That makes that land a great place to view the Disneyland fireworks. It's a new favorite spot to watch the fireworks (once you've experienced the full show in all its glory, of course). But please note that this is normally not an official viewing area. There are no projections, music or other effects that you would otherwise experience in the official viewing areas ...That is until Season of the Force 2024!

That out-of-this-world celebration takes place April 5 through June 2, 2024. During the Season of the Force celebration, you can enjoy "Star Wars" music accompanying the fireworks in Star Wars Galaxy's Edge only. This soundtrack is different from the other music and shows that enhance the same fireworks in other locations. We love the options!

We find great views just outside Docking Bay 7, on the raised area overlooking the spires and the Millennium Falcon. The fireworks are very big there because you are so close. And the view of the beautiful spires certainly adds to the show.

Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge Experience Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - View from Tomorrowland SkylineThe Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge Experience has returned. For $60 (plus gratuity) you have a place to hang for the evening on the balcony over Star Wars Launch Bay. You can watch fireworks from here. Be sure to reserve for a night with scheduled fireworks! No refunds are given if the fireworks are canceled. You can stay for the evening (until 10 p.m.) or come and go as you like.

Your package comes with:

  • Entree (can vary but when we visited the choices were a meatloaf sandwich, a chicken parmesan sandwich or a plant-based pasta dish)
  • Side (fries or pasta salad)
  • Delectable dessert selection (it was cheesecake or chocolate cake when we visited)
  • Unlimited soft drinks, bottled water or hot beverages (such as tea, coffee and hot chocolate)
  • A place to use throughout the evening
  • Phone charging
  • Games
  • Credential

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - The sandwich, side and dessertsYou can play games at your table, or go play larger games on the side by Space Mountain. You have phone chargers at the table. Be sure to ask your server for a cord or a blanket if you need one.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - People play games at Tomorrowland Skyline LoungeCheck-in is at Galactic Grill. You'll pick up your food and hot beverages and carry them to the ramp to the viewing area. Seating is assigned. Smaller parties of two will be seated with other parties of two. The row along the railing is made of regular tables and chairs. The second row has high-top tables.

The night we visited, the fireworks were canceled. But we were told that you can see them to the right of the Matterhorn. You cannot see projections, but you can hear the music and see the larger blasts. This is an option that gets you away from the crowds, but keep in mind that you don't get the entire show in all its glory.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks Outside of the Park

The Disneyland projections take place only inside Disneyland Park, but you can catch some of the fireworks from other locations. Even though we prefer watching the fireworks from inside the park, several great viewing locations outside of the park allow you to see the larger and higher explosions. It's not ideal, but sometimes your Disneyland day doesn't allow for proper fireworks time. Your tadpoles may be too tired, you don't have a park ticket/valid pass or you might just need a more relaxing, crowd-free location.

View from your hotel room or balcony

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Fireworks from Hotel off Harbor

Some on-site and off-site hotel rooms, or even hotel pool decks, have great fireworks views. You can dress your tadpoles in their jammies, watch the show and then hop into bed. It’s HEAVEN not being miles and miles from your nice warm bed! We have watched them from the Marriott Courtyard on Harbor Boulevard near the park entrance. Any of the hotels in that area may offer a great view of the action, but you'll have to request a room with a fireworks view or find out if they have a pool deck or lounge with a view.

If you're staying at the Disneyland Hotel or Disney's Grand Californian, the concierge lounges provide views of the fireworks. Many concierge rooms at the resort hotels offer fireworks views with the soundtrack piped in for full effect. (By the way, we offer discounts on Los Angeles hotel rooms near Disneyland!)

Hop to the pool deck at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel (temporarily closed)

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Fireworks from Paradise Pier

You can view the fireworks from the third-floor pool deck at Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, complete with music and narration. You do not need a room key to get in. The button on the elevator even has a fireworks viewing choice! When you exit the doors toward the pool area, make an immediate right. You will pass a bar and see people lining up at the railing looking toward Downtown Disney. You can arrive at this spot shortly before fireworks time. If you're not staying near the resort, you can park in Downtown Disney (check prices and validation requirements). You can also park in the adjacent hotel parking garage (but check for applicable fees in advance, as parking at hotels has gotten more expensive).

This is a free, non-stressful way to view fireworks and get to hear the music and dialogue from the show. We like getting the music played for free. Free stuff is our jam! If you're into freebies, here's a blog post with lots of tips on finding free (or almost free) things to do at Disneyland.

Watch from the Esplanade or Downtown Disney

You can walk to the Esplanade between the park entrances to get a view of the fireworks. It's free and within walking distance (and shuttle distance) from many hotels. You can't see the castle from there, but you can see the higher fireworks. Sit on the Disney California Adventure side of the Esplanade.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Fireworks from Disneyland Esplanade

At the other end of Downtown Disney, you can see the fireworks from the railing across from the LEGO Store, between the Monorail and Tortilla Jo's (although some palm trees may enhance or obstruct your view; it’s all a matter of how you look at it). You can find a great and less-obstructed Downtown Disney fireworks view between Splitsville and Tortilla Jo’s. Also, just outside of the security checkpoint at the cast member parking lot near the former ESPN Zone, people will gather to watch the show. When facing the Downtown Disney entrance, stay to the far right. There is a large open space for viewing.

The Fifth and Westin Anaheim Rooftop Bars

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Fireworks from The Fifth DCA

If you want to see fireworks from outside the park, there are some new spots to consider. The Fifth is a neat and stylish setting. The Fifth is located on the fifth-floor roof of the Grand Legacy at the Park. The West Anaheim also has a rooftop bar and fireworks views from a premium room. We have not seen them from this location yet.

We checked out The Fifth (because you know, "research") and The Fifth has some pluses and minuses. Pluses include a kid-friendly environment (up until 10 p.m., when it becomes 21 and over). It has a relaxed vibe and great views of the parks. You can also catch a distant view of the top of World of Color. The Fifth offers different themed entertainment each night. We enjoyed dancing to the live band. Leap danced like it was our honeymoon all over again!

The negatives include limited parking. Expect to get diverted to the nearby Anaheim Garden Walk parking structure. That's a 10- to 15-minute walk back to The Fifth. Plan on paying for parking. It's best to walk from your hotel or grab a Lyft or Uber. Tell your waiter you used Uber to get a discount on your bill. You can make reservations only up until 7:30 p.m., which can add up to a hefty bill of eating and cocktails while waiting for that 9:30 p.m. fireworks show. They are closed on Mondays and have a cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays. Don't froget to bring a sweatshirt!

The biggest issue of all is that if the fireworks get canceled (as they quite often do for wind and weather), you are out all that money and time. Obviously, the disappointment is the same whether you waited three hours in the park for that perfect view or were planning to view outside the park. (At least if you are in the park you may get an alternate show.) Can you justify dropping around $100 on food and drink at a location because you wanted to watch the fireworks, and then they do not happen? If you plan to eat out and think fireworks would simply be a bonus, you may justify the gamble.

Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks - Band at The Fifth

Guess what? The night we visited The Fifth, there was no fireworks show because it was too windy! We took the news in stride (because — drinks), and we used the experience as a warning to our readers. We recommend the rooftop bars, as long as your expectation of the fireworks is just a bonus. Don't go there only for the fireworks.

Other fireworks viewing spots around Anaheim

There are many other places to catch a view of the Disneyland fireworks around Anaheim. We have even caught the show from Interstate 5 when driving by at fireworks time. (We did not stop on the freeway. The 5 is bad enough.) We have heard of street locations and even gas stations with views, but with little tadpoles to keep safe, we recommend watching from a location away from traffic.

Calculating a fireworks cancellation

Why does the show get canceled? If there are winds at altitude, they will not shoot fireworks off. It may seem pretty calm where you're standing, but they send up a weather balloon to check on things up above. If the winds are too strong or blowing in the wrong direction, they will cancel the show. Usually, Disneyland does not officially cancel the show until right at the scheduled showtime. Sometimes, Disney makes cancelation announcements, but only the people in the park get that memo. Sometimes, they delay the show's start for up to 15 minutes. We've even been there when they started the show, but then shut it down right in the middle.

We watch the way the wind is blowing the flag on the pole at the Main Street, U.S.A. Train Station. If it is blowing toward Frontierland, it seems that fireworks might not happen. If it is blowing gently toward Tomorrowland, we may be in the clear. Ideally, we like to see that it is not blowing at all. A noticeable breeze is bad news for the show.

Before you go through the task of narrowing down our list of the best places to view Disneyland fireworks, we recommend not investing a lot of time, energy and money in doing it. Yes, if you are in the park, it can be worth it to take the time to get to the right location. Do not invest too much in an outside location or a paid package. Why? Because the scheduled fireworks may not go off as planned, and the show is simply much better in the park. If you choose to watch from outside, use free locations with easy access.

Best Viewing Locations Disneyland Fireworks - Together Forever on Main Street USA

If you're in the park when the show gets canceled, make the best of it. Enjoy Mickey's Mix Magic or the alternate projection show. Watch the projections up close — chances are, if you've already seen the show before, you'll catch all of the projection details you might have missed while you were too busy gazing at fireworks.

You might catch the next Fantasmic! show, which never disappoints. Plus the pyrotechnics can usually go off in Fantasmic! even on nights when fireworks are canceled. Go knock some rides off your list. If you're in the park, it makes sense to stay in the park until closing to continue the fun. Enjoy it, since much of the crowd leaves at this point, and wait times dive. Have a backup plan in place. Get ice cream or hit the Fantasyland rides, such as Peter Pan's Flight, with shorter lines once they reopen. Better luck next time!

Where are your favorite places to view the Disneyland fireworks? Do you have any Disneyland fireworks secret spots that you're willing to share? Let us know in the comments below!

Related: 40 Tips to Maximize Your Time at Disneyland

Related: The Ins and Outs of Disneyland Dining Reservations

Hoppy planning!

Keep hopping, Mommy Frog!
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Jun 29, 2023 at 7:11 p.m. Jessica Says...

Will there be fireworks on Nov 2, 2023?

Reply
Jun 30, 2023 at 10:57 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jessica!

We don't know the entertainment schedule for that timeframe yet (usually, it's posted about six weeks in advance). However, typically around this time, fireworks only happen on the weekends, but the projection show happens nightly.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 27, 2023 at 6:58 p.m. Rosemary Says...

Is there a VIP section to watch the fireworks and is there an additional cost or reservation that Hass to be made?

Reply
Feb 1, 2023 at 4:32 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rosemary!

There isn't a reserved fireworks viewing area unless you purchase a fireworks dessert party package. You can find more info here.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Sep 20, 2022 at 6:26 p.m. Ann Marie Says...

Great advice for a first timer to the park. Lots of ideas and hints I wouldn't have even thought to ask about too.

Reply
Aug 16, 2022 at 7:27 p.m. Kelsey Says...

Any tips for where a good viewing spot would be for someone in a wheelchair? Every time we have gone they just get swallowed in the sea of people and don't see anything but people's backsides haha.

Reply
Aug 17, 2022 at 2:03 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kelsey!

It's a bit tricky! We have a couple of tips for different options - you can camp out several hours early to get the front of the castle with nobody in front. Another decent option is to watch from the back of Main Street, U.S.A. where crowds are usually thinner. Depending on the season, there is a curb area in the center of Town Square and that puts you a little higher than the rest of the crowd, looking toward the castle (but it would be harder to watch when there is a pumpkin or tree in that space). If you don’t mind watching at Rivers of America, you can purchase a Fantasmic Dining Package and watch from the viewing area (we recommend Blue Bayou). Also check at “it’s a small world” for viewing areas behind ropes or just behind a fence on the upper levels. Get in place early, so you can get a spot where people cannot stand in front.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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May 21, 2022 at 2:02 a.m. Leeann Jacket Says...

Can you sit by the Partners Statue? We would like to see Nemo & Tinkerbell flying over the castle. How far back is the VIP section?

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May 23, 2022 at 4:38 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Leeann!

No, that is not a viewing area since it is a walking area. The VIP section is between the planter boxes that surround the statue and the street. It will be roped off. But you can stand on the street in front of the castle and on the sidewalk or curb just behind the people in the street in some areas. Be sure to get in place early in front of the castle to see Tinker Bell fly! She will fly from the castle towards the Matterhorn so just make sure you can see that area. Have fun!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Feb 19, 2022 at 5:32 p.m. Carmen Says...

So much has changed. We are going mid week during April. I really hope we get to see fireworks! Thanks for the great info

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Feb 22, 2022 at 10:35 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Carmen!

We just found out this morning that the Disneyland Forever nighttime spectacular will return April 22! Hope that's in time for your trip :) If you just miss it though, Mickey's Mix Magic is currently hoppening with fireworks on select nights (typically Friday, Saturday and Sunday). You can check the Entertainment Schedule as it gets closer to your trip!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Nov 24, 2019 at 3:23 p.m. Jim Whelan Says...

Thanks for this. I've watched from most of these locations but not so precise as you about where in the general location to watch. I'm afraid my all time favorite view is impossible to plan.

My family decided to bypass fireworks viewing in favor of rides (lines are shorter during parades and fireworks) We happened to get on the Matterhorn as fireworks were going off. Seeing the fireworks appear and disappear as the car zips around the mountain is quite an experience. We were lucky that the "grand finale" was going off as we splashed down.

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Nov 25, 2019 at 7:55 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

What an awesome experience, Jim! Thanks for taking the time to share with us!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Mar 13, 2019 at 5:54 a.m. Siscoziger Says...

So much great information! Not everyone gets 5 day passes and it is so valuable to be able to plan out your day(s) to get the best bang for your buck! I learn something new every time, but to find a blog like yours that helps me plan before a trip helps this trip be so much better (not full of “next time we’ll try...”) We discovered dinner/lunch with show packages in the last several years and have been loving combining those! Scheduling our WOC dinner package at la travitorra during the Pixar play parade so we could watch eat and get our fast pass seats all at once was fabulous as was having dinner there right before the light parade when all the floats go by right at eye level (and - drinks!) I will forever “celebrate” my birthday at least one day of our visit because the “Happy Birthday” experience is so special. I had tears in my eyes as cast members IN the parade wished me happy when I turned 40 the first time ;) I’m keeping that button forever...i wish it said 29 lol. Important to note that security made me take my birthday button off and I’ve seen people covered in buttons so if you are wearing your buttons multiple days put them in/on your bag till you’re in the park. Thank you so very much for this informative post! We were going to try the Fantasmic terrace upgrade this year but it was booked so are going to the WOC dessert party instead. We try and do one big ticket thing and now that we can kind of combine them it helps so much. Thanks also for the helpful list of free finds- we’ll be checking on some new things this year too to add to our half way inexpensive pressed penny hunt. ????

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Mar 13, 2019 at 7:50 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Siscoziger!

We are so hoppy to hear that you've found the site useful! Such high praise. Thanks for sharing your advice with the Frog Pond. Have a frogtastic trip this year (and don't froget to report back)!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Feb 27, 2019 at 12:11 p.m. Software Mark Says...

I like staying at Holiday Inn Express on Walnut when in the area. Fireworks are very good from the parking lot. In fact, I have to turn off or lower the sensitivity of my car alarm.

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Jan 30, 2019 at 10:11 a.m. Frances Says...

Are there fireworks during the week? Or is it just Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

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Jan 30, 2019 at 12:05 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Frances!

At this time, Mickey's Mix Magic with fireworks is only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Entertainment Schedule will list whether the show does or does not include fireworks, as well.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Aug 25, 2018 at 3:18 p.m. Jan J Says...

Thank you SO much for the information about viewing Together Forever and the Paint The Night Parade! It was incredibly helpful and we had great views of both!!

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Jun 27, 2018 at 11:27 a.m. Emily Farrell Says...

Hi there, do you know if the fireworks will be held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays all through September?

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Jul 6, 2018 at 1:16 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Emily!

Right now, Disneyland's schedule is displaying nightly showtimes through August 17 (as the schedule only goes six weeks out.) We imagine this fireworks show will continue showing at least through the end of Pixar Fest on Sept. 3, but we'll keep an eye out to see if it gets extended!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jun 10, 2018 at 10:09 p.m. Nikki Says...

Thank you so much for this post!

Several years ago we used to camp out in front of the castle when they had NO walkway! So there was literally only a rope between us and the castle. It was amazing. The last two years, things have changed, and it's nice to know (before waiting 3 hours) that they are still having people walk in front of the castle. Not sure why they did that. Seems unfair... anyways, I think we will watch it from Rivers of America one night, and try Main Street the next.

Do you know if they project the 4th of July firework animations on Rivers of America?

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Jun 14, 2018 at noon FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nikki,

That sounds like a good plan because you can view Fanstasmic! before or after the fireworks at Rivers of America, and Main Street USA and the area leading up to the circle all have great views.

We are not sure, but this year’s entertainment schedule shows Together Forever on the 4th of July (instead of the regular 4th of July fireworks), and that show does have projection at Rivers of America!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Sep 5, 2017 at 12:30 p.m. Marie Says...

Hi there. On an evening when Mickey's Halloween Party is on.....is it possible to watch the 8.15pm World of Colour at DCA and then make it over to Disneyland Park to watch the Halloween Screams Fireworks for 9.30pm?? With crowd numbers would you be able to make it? Or are we better to stay in Disneyland Park and watch the first Headless Horseman parade and then fireworks? Thanks so much.

Marie

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Sep 5, 2017 at 10:10 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Marie,

We think it makes sense to say inside Disneyland and see all of the special festivities that are exclusive to the party.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Sep 5, 2017 at 1:39 a.m. Brandon Says...

I have a couple of secret spots that I recommend, If you go to the Majestic garden hotel behind Disneyland where the cast member parking lot is right across the street its on the intersection of ball road and ox road and the fireworks are launched directly behind one of the buildings which is not that far away and the gates of toontown is a pretty cool spot

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Sep 5, 2017 at 10:12 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Brandon,

Great tips. Thanks for sharing.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jun 4, 2017 at 4:02 p.m. Tiffany Says...

Can you recommend hotels in the area where you can get a fireworks view?

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Jun 5, 2017 at 12:28 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tiffany,

Any of the hotels along Harbor Blvd. offer views of the Disneyland fireworks.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Oct 4, 2016 at 2:58 a.m. Jason Says...

Hi, I am just wondering, it seems as if the Disneyland closes at 6pm but the fireworks take place at 9:30PM. How does this work? Is it that rides shut down at 6pm but the park remains open so you can view the fireworks?

Thanks

Jason

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Oct 12, 2016 at 10:21 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jason,

You are probably looking at a Halloween Party date. The park closes to the public at 6 p.m., but party guests can stay in the park, and the park remains open to them with parades and fireworks. The party requires a separate ticket.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Aug 16, 2016 at 7:51 p.m. Jan Wagner - AutoMatters & More Says...

I write a weekly newspaper and online column. For a long time I have been struggling to find good places to photograph the Main Street parades at night and also the Disneyland fireworks shows. On Sunday, before I went to Disneyland, I found your website (https://www.undercovertourist.com/blog/best-places-view-disneyland-forever-fireworks/) with suggestions of where to watch the Disneyland "Forever" 60th. anniversary fireworks show and the "Paint the Night" parade. Then, on Sunday evening, I took photos as follows:

1. - Of the first parade while sitting on the curb across the street from the Penny Arcade building (in front of the "Chester Drawers" storefront).

2. - Of the fireworks and the projections on the buildings from the middle of the street, in front of where I'd watched the parade.

3. - Of the second parade from the raised area across from "It's a Small World." Not only did I take stills of the parade, but I leaned my iPhone (with an accessory Olloclip wide angle lens) against the railing above the wall that I was standing behind and recorded a video of the entire parade.

Thank you for the great advice!!! I was able to take some amazing photos.

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Oct 4, 2015 at 8:13 p.m. Christine Says...

Thank you for the viewing tips! I went last Tuesday after seeing the Wheel of Color and couldn't get near Main Street. Was squished in by the train depot. I'm going on 11/2 and will definitely take your advice! Cheers!

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Sep 3, 2015 at 11:53 a.m. Veronica Says...

Thanks for a great review and tips of all the spots for fireworks display. I had shivers up my spine and tears just watching your video!

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Sep 3, 2015 at 11:07 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Veronica,

Glad you liked it. We love it that you were so moved!

Leap

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Sep 2, 2015 at 6:51 a.m. Monn Says...

before I was an annual pass holder, my family made it a habit to go for some Starbucks and snacks and picnicned by the Arco on Ball Rd. which is the back of the castle outside of Disneyland... Or cross the street to the castle look alike Hotel and sit by the little bus stop benches... Disneyland staff won't allow you to cross the street closer due to the debri of the fireworks falling from the sky, and I do want to add, the fireworks sound much louder from there.

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Aug 31, 2015 at 5:57 p.m. Carolina Says...

Hi, thank you for the info above.

I will be in LA for less than 2 days, and will be arriving in the middle of the afternoon, so I won't really have to go for the park activities. Do you know if there is a special fee just to go watch the fireworks?

Thank you

Carolina

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Sep 1, 2015 at 8:47 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Carolina,

You would still need regular admission to see the fireworks inside the park.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
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