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Fantastic Tips for Viewing Disneyland Fantasmic!

by Leap on November 1, 2023 101 Los Angeles   Video

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - PinterestWe are always leaping with excitement to watch Fantasmic! This Disneyland Park nighttime show takes our frog squad to a whole new world, so to speak. Just ask Aladdin and Jasmine, who fly through the fog amid spectacular lights and music! Mommy Frog loves the water projections, while Tad and Lily can't stop talking about the pirate ship. Me? I'm all about the live-action, pyrotechnics and strobe lighting effects! About those, on April 22, 2023, the fire-breathing dragon caught on fire. Nobody was hurt, but that means Fantasmic! is temporarily closed at Disneyland and reopens May 24, 2024. When it returns, the dragon will no longer be part of the show. Instead, guests can expect new special effects in the battle scene between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent.

If you are looking for nighttime entertainment, you still have amazing options! Disneyland has fireworks and projection shows (and sometimes parades at 6:30 p.m.) Disney California Adventure has World of Color. Until Fantasmic! returns, in the meantime you can enjoy Queenie and the Jambalaya Jazz Band on the Rivers of America in the evenings.

If you haven't seen the show in a really long time, it got an explosive reboot in 2017. Additions included Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, plus Captain Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean — it’s a skeleton crew. Fantasmic! features lighting, projection mapping, fountains and new mist screens. Enjoy this nighttime spectacular and its beautiful musical score with our most fantastic Disneyland Fantasmic! tips.

Our Most Fantastic Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips

1. Find the Best Place for Viewing Disneyland Fantasmic!

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Rapunzel and Flynn Rider

With three water screens displaying state-of-the-art projections (photos cannot do it justice), you can get a pretty good view of Disneyland Fantasmic! from most areas bordering the water on Rivers of America. Just avoid the far right and far left. If you can see the center stage on Tom Sawyer Island, even from an angle, you are good. All floats and boats pass by all viewing areas. The areas bordering the water offer the best views. The next best views can be found directly behind a low railing in the tiers that rise up behind the front sections in New Orleans Square and the Pirates of the Caribbean bridge.

Here is Tad's YouTube video, which he shot from the bridge in the standby viewing area.

Leading up to the show's return, Disneyland modified the walkways of New Orleans Square. That means the terrain of standby areas has changed and no longer has as many levels as before. If you're directly behind a planter box railing, your kids will have a great view without people standing directly in front of them. Watch out for obstacles (such as lights, poles and trees) that could block your view. There's a small viewing area in front of the Royal Street Veranda restaurant — it may fill in later than the other locations. Be aware that it's possible to get wet in any of the front sections! We did not get wet on opening night, but that may vary due to wind direction.

Most of the closest and lowest sections that are centered are all reserved for people with restaurant vouchers. There is no virtual queue for viewing. Besides the restaurant packages, all areas are standby viewing. You will need to be in taped or roped sections to view the show. Walkways behind viewing areas need to stay clear.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Sorcerer Mickey

2. Check the Calendar for Showtimes

On some nights, there are two shows; other nights may only have one. There are even many weeknights during the school year with no show at all, so always check the entertainment calendar and plan accordingly. If you have a choice of showtimes, it's best to decide in advance which show you want to see. The early show is much more crowded and requires planning. The advantage to seeing a 9 p.m. show is that the Disneyland fireworks go off at 9:30 p.m., just three minutes after Fantasmic! ends, so you can stay in place to view the fireworks. The later show is less crowded and easier to hop in place for a good standby viewing location, especially just after the fireworks end. If you must see the fireworks at the castle, then you can head straight to Fantasmic! after the fireworks end and claim your spot.

Keep in mind that for the first month or so, demand is high so it's even more challenging than usual to hop in place for the second show, but it will be easier as time goes on. Weeknights may be less crowded than Fridays and Saturdays.

3. Secure Your Spot in Advance

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Mirror projection

Because there is no virtual queue and all viewing is standby (outside of dining packages), we suggest that you scout out a good spot early. As time goes on, this may mean an hour or two in advance. But right now, since the show has just returned, it may mean getting in place even earlier. The other option is to plan 60 days out and reserve a dining package.

4. Know How to Use Standby Viewing Areas

Fantastic Tips for Viewing Disneyland Fantasmic!-Mickey and dragonThere are a number of standby viewing areas, and we think they offer a pretty decent view of the show for those who arrive early. The more people standing right in front of you, the harder it is to see.

There are multiple standing-only, standby areas for viewing, but the area has been slightly modified with the new dining area and reworking of New Orleans Square. Most of the viewing areas are a tier behind and above the Fantasmic! dining package viewing areas in front of New Orleans Square. They run from Pirates of the Caribbean to Harbour Galley. If you get there early enough, you can have a great, unobstructed view of the action. The bridge by Pirates of the Caribbean is also a standby viewing area that gets you a little higher up and is perfectly centered. It just will have some obstacles in the way.

If you want to catch the first show, arrive a few hours early and claim a spot behind a planter railing or bridge railing for the best view. You can usually get a pretty decent view an hour before showtime, but line up earlier to get front row on a railing. You can always ask a cast member about viewing areas if you aren't sure. On very crowded days, when Pirates of the Caribbean has a long line, the cast members may not open up some viewing areas until later.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Mark Twain Riverboat with tons of Disney characters

Just a couple of minutes after the 9 p.m. Fantasmic! show ends, the Disneyland fireworks show begins. We found the areas across from the French Market entrance sign all the way to the Pirates bridge to have pretty good viewing for both fireworks and Fantasmic! We've hopped to those locations right after the first show ended and watched the 9:30 p.m. fireworks show from there. After the audience members from the first Fantasmic! show leave after fireworks, we get a jump on their railing location for the 10:30 p.m. show. Sometimes they leave before fireworks and we get a railing spot and unobstructed view for both the fireworks and the second Fantasmic! show. #Bonus

There is a waterfront standby area to the right and to the left. Standby viewing is a lot easier to find for the second show. The first areas to fill in are to the right of the dining areas when facing the water. But there is a lot more viewing to the left of the Hungry Bear section.

To reach this area, walk down the ramp from Harbour Galley. You can stand in the section between Pelican Landing and the Hungry Bear dining section. We recently hopped in place in front about 20 minutes before the second show. You can also sit on the steps behind that section. You'll get a side view of the show but can see projection well and other show elements really well.

There are wheelchair viewing areas, although people who use wheelchairs are free to watch from any standby area that works for them. One is all the way over to the right, near the petrified tree. When that is full, they move people in wheelchairs behind some dining package viewers if there is space. If you use a wheelchair, we recommend scouting out a location in front of a planter box early so you can see the show from a central area. If you purchase a dining package, you can sit in your wheelchair behind the people who are seated on the ground. That's the best view for people who use chairs. If you have a stroller with a wheelchair tag, you can bring it into the dining section. Regular strollers need to be parked outside of the viewing area.

5. Get Reserved Seating with a Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Package

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Dining Package Voucher

If you aren't one to scout out and camp out for the perfect spot, then another choice is to reserve a no-stress Disneyland Fantasmic! dining package that provides you with a voucher for a reserved viewing section. The Fantasmic! dining packages require guests to be seated on the ground. Online, it now says standing room only with accommodations for guests with disabilities, but it was still seated on the ground when we visited. Wheelchair and ECV users are seated at the back of the section, but they're above the people seated in front of them so they still have a great view.

You can make reservations in the Disneyland app or online. Choices include three-course meals at table-service restaurants such as Blue Bayou and River Belle Terrace or an on-the-go package at the Hungry Bear quick-service restaurant. We have a whole post on Disneyland dining packages, so you can read up and determine if they are worth it for you. Because Fantasmic! is more challenging to get free standby viewing, especially for kids, we love getting a dining package so they can sit on the ground and see well.

The three dining package viewing areas are in the middle and on the water. The Blue Bayou section is in the middle. The Hungry Bear is usually immediately to the left (facing the water); and River Belle Terrace is to the immediate right. However, those two can swap places depending on how many people buy each package each night. But all three are pretty central and are subject to possible water spray. The music and floats are timed to give this area the best show experience. In other words, the music matches the character you are seeing in front of you when you sit in the center sections.

As Tad learned, if you are filming the show, you have to have your camera or tripod below the railing. If you cannot film through the railing bars, plan to be toward the back of the section.

Bring a towel or blanket to sit on. The ground is hard. Plus, we recently learned during a winter show that the ground can be chilly at night. Leap to the rescue. He ran off to a gift shop and purchased a double-layered souvenir blanket. It make a huge difference in our warmth and comfort. From now on we will bring one from home and store it in a locker until showtime.

Hungry Bear On-the-Go

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Hungry Bear Food

Hungry Bear offers the least expensive on-the-go package. Entrees include salmon on a salad, barbecue half chicken, ribs, mac and cheese and a plant-based Impossible sloppy joe slider. Sides include vegetables and potato salad. It comes with dessert and a fountain beverage. Reserve to pick up between 3 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. for the first show and between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. for the second show. Pick-up times may vary based on the showtimes. It costs $35 ($25 for kids, ages 3 to 9) plus tax. Kid options include mac and cheese, ribs or plant-based sloppy joe with fruit and veggies with dessert.

We tried chicken, ribs and salmon. The chicken had a mustardy BBQ sauce and the ribs had a tangy BBQ sauce. We thought they were each really good and filling. The voucher for the first show said to arrive between 8 and 8:45 p.m. Arrive on the early side. This is highly recommended as the area fills in well before the suggested times. The front row looks through the railing. We prefer the back half of the section. The entire section has good viewing. You want to aim to be as close to center stage as possible, rather than off to the side or behind a light pole. If the wind is blowing toward you, you might get wet.

River Belle Terrace 

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Pirate Ship with Captain Jack Sparrow

Fantastic Tips for Viewing Disneyland Fantasmic!-Dining package chicken sandwich at River BelleRiver Belle Terrace has two packages. For the standard package, you cannot reserve it in advance. Starting at 11 a.m. for lunch and 4 p.m. for dinner, you make a normal reservation to dine and request the package from your server (subject to availability). Both lunch and dinner are $50 per person ($30 for ages 3 to 9). You can choose items from the regular menu or from special items offered only to Fantasmic! dining package guests. (We loved the deviled meatballs starter, btw, and the pudding dessert!) You'll watch the show in a separate area. We really like the viewing area for this package.

The River Belle Terrace premium package allows you to view the show from your table on the outdoor patio. Keep in mind that people may be walking between you and the show (which can be distracting), but the advantage is having a chair to sit on if the ground is too hard or cold for you. Dining is at 7:15 p.m. and costs $75 ($45 for ages 3-9). You can choose items from the regular menu or from special items offered only to Fantasmic! dining package guests. Those include loaded potato bites, petite New York steak and scallops, chicken and dumplings skillet, pan-roasted shrimp, chocolate rocky road cake or white chocolate raspberry trifle.

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Steamboat Willie

Blue Bayou

The Fantasmic! dining package is back. You can reserve lunch or dinner (or upgrade at the restaurant with your server when available). It has the most centered and front viewing area. You are seated on the ground. (You no longer get a cushion.) Packages are limited.

Lunch and dinner packages are $89 for adults ($35 for ages 3 to 9) plus tax and gratuity. You can choose from the regular menu or from special items offered only to Fantasmic! Dining Package guests. The offerings include a starter, entrée, specialty nonalcoholic drink and a Fantasmic! specialty dessert. The menu does change seasonally.

6. Watch the Disneyland Fireworks at Rivers of America

It can be challenging to see all of the nighttime entertainment at Disneyland, but you can hit two birds with one stone by watching the Disneyland fireworks from your Fantasmic! viewing location. We believe Rivers of America is one of the best places to view Disneyland fireworks outside of those spots with a castle view. The music plays and you can see the projections on huge water screens. You can stay in place after the 9 p.m. show to see the fireworks about three minutes after it ends, or watch the show in the vicinity and then jump in place as the first-show viewers move out after the fireworks.

7. See the Second Disneyland Fantasmic! Show

Disneyland Fantasmic! Tips - Snake moves across stage

We always have the best luck viewing the second show of any nighttime spectacular that offers one. Seeing the later Disneyland Fantasmic! show can be easier to get a closer, standby viewing location, especially during the week. Guests may have gotten tired and gone home after the first showing. If there is space left closer to the water due to no-shows, a cast member might allow you to move in behind them just before the show. Seeing the late show is the easiest way to get a good view without investing as much wait time.

Fantastic Tips for Viewing Disneyland Fantasmic!-MagicBand+ interacting with show8. Make Sure Your MagicBand+ Is Charged

If you have a MagicBand+, it can enhance your show experience. Your MagicBand+ interacts with the show with colorful lights and vibrations. Toadally cool! But if the battery needs charging, you will not get those show experiences. It should be fine if you charged up for the day before coming to a park, but we carry a MagicBand+ charger cord and a portable phone charger every time we go to the park just in case.

We are sure you are hopping with excitement to see Fantasmic! Just plan ahead for when you want to see the show. Have a tip we didn't mention? Share it below! You can save money on your Disneyland tickets when you purchase multi-day tickets from Undercover Tourist. 

Related: Tips to Maximize Your Time at Disneyland

Related: Best Places to View Disneyland Fireworks

Keep hopping!

Keep hopping, Leap!
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Mar 16, 2023 at 12:48 p.m. Amy Says...

We have the on the go Hungry Bear lunch for the 1st show on 3/28. The fireworks are at 930. With the new show, can you still sit tight at this location and still see the fireworks? Also our lunch reservation is at 330, since this is quick service, is there any flexibility on food pickup time?

Reply
Mar 17, 2023 at 3:45 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amy!

You can stay in place to watch the fireworks – the projections are on the stage area and water fountains - but the cast members usually ask you to stand for fireworks. When Fantasmic ends, you can stand and move up to the fence or stay where you are. The food pickup time might have a 20- to 30-minute leeway for picking up. But since they have people coming all afternoon and evening, the line can get longer as time goes on. The dining area is separate from the viewing area. Have fun!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 15, 2023 at 7:33 p.m. Tammy Says...

we are going to disneyland in April. Have been trying to book on line and on the app for the blue beaue for the dinning and show. But we can never get one, and the site says its not available through the week, then it will say not available on weekends, then not available tell march 23. we are trying to book for April 15 or even around then. Never get a strait answer. find the site very confusing.

Reply
Feb 1, 2023 at 10:16 p.m. Andrea Roman Says...

I reserved the River Belle Fantasmic dinner for 7:15 this Friday. Is this the one where we can stay in our dining seats and watch? And will the fireworks be here after also? Thanks so much!

Reply
Feb 1, 2023 at 4:52 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Andrea!

It depends — if you reserved the standard package, then you would receive a voucher and need to move to a reserved viewing area. But if you have the premium package, then you can stay at your dining table. And yes! Wondrous Journeys with fireworks is scheduled for this Friday (though often dependent on weather).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 26, 2023 at 7:11 p.m. David Says...

We can choose either 7:15pm or 7:50pm

River Belle Terrace Dinner standard package for 4. Which one do you recommend to have a better viewing experience for the show? Thank you. The premium package is not available :(.

Reply
Apr 5, 2023 at 9:14 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi David!

Either time works, as you will get a voucher for the seated area on the ground in front of the water. We actually prefer this view over sitting at the tables.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 27, 2023 at 4:48 a.m. Karen Says...

Hi!

We booked the blue bayou fantastic dining package for the 2nd show for our trip. Do you know whether they still offer cushions to sit on for that dining package? Plus, I am reading up different things that for the 2nd show, all the dining options (blue bayou, river belle, hungry bear) get all mixed in together so even though I paid for the higher tier restaurant, I'll probably end up not sitting in the centre roped off area for the 2nd show. Do you know if that is the case?

Thank you ahead of time!

Reply
Feb 9, 2023 at 2:40 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Karen!

The Blue Bayou is the only restaurant that offers cushions for guests who purchase the Fantasmic! dining package. Although the size of your party can shift your exact seating location, all the restaurants offering a dining package for the show share the center viewing area. This way, guests who paid for any of the dining packages can still enjoy the show from the roped-off zone.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Nov 6, 2022 at 2:29 p.m. Gianna Says...

Is the water projections for the Fireworks after Fantasmic a permanent addition? I heard they were just trialing it over Summer but hoping it is still in place for my upcoming visit.

Reply
Nov 10, 2022 at 10:54 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Gianna!

We haven't heard any word about the projections staying or leaving. The projections have been there in years past — they usually only work for fireworks on nights with Fantasmic! but subject to change.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 24, 2022 at 7:11 p.m. B.J. Peterson Says...

I really enjoy your Blog & have read many of the detailed articles you've published.We have reservations at DL/DCA the end of September & want to get the Riverbelle Premium package for Fantasmic since we are older. I have read different articles on how to get reservations at the restaurants, but the times to call or use the app vary widely. Do you have sound advice as to the Best times to get these coveted reservations? Thank you for your response.

Reply
Jul 25, 2022 at 2:32 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi B.J.!

It's not always consistent when reservations go live (I know — it's troublesome for us frogs, too!). At 60 days out, we'd suggest checking for River Belle premium package reservations at 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. Pacific time.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 21, 2022 at 12:34 p.m. Leslie Says...

Hello. I have Blue Bayou reservations and will upgrade to the Fantasmic package to get better views. We’re aiming to see the earlier show. That being said, I understand that people are seated in the reserved dinning area during Fantasmic; however, do people remain seated or do they stand for Disneyland Forever fireworks? I’m short (under 5 feet) so this will help m determine where I should plan on sitting for Fantasmic. I usually get blocked my taller people and that’s why we’re doing the dining package. Thanks

Reply
Jul 25, 2022 at 2:26 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Leslie!

People will stand for fireworks. After Fantasmic, move over to the railing and stand there, or stand near the back of the reserved area and you'll have space in front of you to see the fireworks because it's not crowded in there.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 6, 2022 at 4:11 a.m. Lisa Says...

I am elderly and unable to sit on the ground to view Fantasmic. I would not be able to get up again! Are there any accommodations for elderly visitors?

Reply
Jul 6, 2022 at 1:17 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lisa!

All viewing areas are standing only, with accommodations for guests with disabilities. We'd recommend standing at the back of the River Bell area. There's also the option of the premium River Belle dining package, which would allow you to sit at a table.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 14, 2022 at 9:18 a.m. Jen Says...

At River Belle Terrace, do I need to wait until my reservation time to request a voucher or can I go when they open and have them add a note to my reservation? I’m afraid they’ll run out of vouchers if we have a later reservation time.

Reply
Jun 17, 2022 at 10:43 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jen!

Yes, you will need to wait until you pay, but you could try going by and talking to the cast members beforehand. We're not toadally sure how quickly they run through vouchers, but it likely varies by day.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 13, 2022 at 10:57 p.m. Kelly Says...

Thanks for this great report! It will be my birthday when we are there the end of August and I’m hopping ???? to do all three night time entertainments in Disneyland that night. Blue Bayou would be perfect! When would be a good time to try and get walk up ressies to book the fantastic package? I would consider one of the river bell packages also. Is it better to go for lunch or if you go for dinner can you sit at the tables to watch? Is the viewing good there for the fireworks and then can we try and watch MSEP maybe from Main Street or Small World?

Thanks again!

Kelly

Reply
Jun 17, 2022 at 10:49 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kelly!

We do not know when Blue Bayou will switch over to reservations from walk-up availability. Until that change happens, you could try at 11 a.m. when the restaurant opens, but the availability opens up throughout the day. (Once Pirates of the Caribbean opens back up, we think reservations could come back, but that's just our best guess!)

For River Belle, for most dining, you book a regular reservation and upgrade to the package with your server. Then you get a voucher for the viewing area seated on the ground right on the water. It's a great spot to watch the show — we just did it and loved it! Or you can book the 7:15 p.m. premium package to stay in your restaurant seat and watch the show. It's more costly and you get a seat, but you do have people walking in front of the restaurant and cast members directing traffic, which could be a little distracting, depending on your seat's location.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 18, 2022 at 9:11 p.m. Terri Says...

For River Belle Premium Fantasmic dining package you need to book online only? We’re 60 days out today and nothing available. Advice?

Reply
Jun 23, 2022 at 9:07 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Terri!

Yes, for the premium package, you do need to book online for 7:15 p.m. We'd keep checking in case there are any cancellations! For the standard package, you get a regular reservation for lunch or dinner and upgrade at the restaurant.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 21, 2022 at 2:05 a.m. Leeann Jacket Says...

Can you sit on the benches along Rivers of America? I don't know how far back the VIP section goes, but I would like to be elevated enough, so the littles can see over the big people.

Reply
May 23, 2022 at 4:37 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Leeann!

There are not really any benches that we are picturing during showtime. Perhaps the cast members move them. Usually your best bet is to be behind a planter box, which gives you space in front of you. The bridge over Pirates’ entrance also gets you above the crowds. Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 10, 2020 at 11:21 p.m. Jen Says...

Do any of the reserved seating packages for Fantasmic allow you to bring strollers in? We will probably have a sleeping child and wondering if it’s okay to bring the stroller in??

Reply
Mar 13, 2020 at 4:44 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jen,

The Fantasmic! seating packages are seated on the ground. You can bring a stroller, but it may need to be parked to the side or back of the viewing area so it does not block the view of others seated on the ground behind it. If your child is sleeping in the stroller, you can sit near the back with the stroller wherever a cast member directs you to park.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 19, 2020 at 6:17 a.m. Amanda Gomez Says...

What is the benefit of the Hungry Bear package if you still have to sit or stand?!

Reply
Jan 21, 2020 at 4:24 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amanda!

We hear ya! While you'll have to stand, the Hungry Bear package does give you an unobstructed viewing area down in front, and you do not have to claim a spot as early as other locations and you can sit on the ground.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 17, 2019 at 4:28 p.m. Haz Says...

Thanks for a great article! I just made a early reservations at BB for the Fantasmic dinner package a 430pm. I’m a little unsure of the process and if we are allowed to sit there for 5 hrs till the show starts. Can my husband stake and book the viewing spot by 7pm behind the rail/planter box whilst we have dinner. Or best to change the reservation to later ( 7pm)

Reply
Nov 18, 2019 at 1:43 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Haz!

You are so welcome - thank YOU for hopping by! You will eat at BB and have a voucher for a return time to the front and center viewing section. You will get a cushion to sit on with that package and you will not be able to take your place earlier than the time on your voucher. Go enjoy your meal and arrive just a little before your return time. The front rows are behind the railing, and there is a rise so the back of the section is a little higher than the front. They are all great spots in the reserved dining viewing, so do not feel that you need to sit in place. Have a great time!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 15, 2019 at 10:14 a.m. Catherine Stamper Says...

My family will be in the Parks for D23 Expo next week; specifically Thurs. 8/22. We’re wanting to maximize our wait time for Fantasmic, without having a Dinner Package... I’m disabled and have always been happy with the seating area; can you give us other, more specific suggestions for a better viewing spot that will accommodate my ECV scooter? We’re hoping for the 9pm show so we can stay & have great view of the Fireworks, too! Lastly, we’ll be getting MaxPasses, so how would this work for securing a spot... Would we be limited to a certain section(s) for viewing, or could we find our own spot; knowing that we’d be able to sit where we want to help with the ECV accommodation? Thanks in advance for any guidance or tips.

Reply
Aug 19, 2019 at 10:27 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Catherine!

The disabled viewing area is not great. With MaxPass, you can get a FASTPASS as soon as you enter the park from your phone. Arrive about 7-7:30 p.m. to get the best viewing spot within that area. You can also get any standby viewing you like. Arrive about 7 p.m. and park on the New Orleans Square side behind any railing that doesn’t block your view of the stage on the Island.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 11, 2019 at 5:02 a.m. RONALDO JOSE PASSARELA Says...

Can I see Fantasmic first Friday in november ? Or only Sat and sund

Reply
Jul 15, 2019 at 4:17 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ronaldo!

The entertainment calendar comes out 6 weeks in advance. If it is showing on weekends, it should be Friday, Saturday and Sunday, but definitely check the calendar a little closer to your trip.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 22, 2019 at 7:52 p.m. Dima Says...

I love your blog! It was super useful when we did WDW last summer. We are going to DL/DCA during the Holidays when it will be super crowded. I will be getting MaxPasses and DAS for my 2 boys with SPD and CP. One of them is in a wheelchair. Do you know if there's a disabled viewing area for Fantasmic? We don't want to do the dining package since we are doing for WOC on New Year's Eve.

Thanks!

Reply
May 24, 2019 at 8:47 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Thanks so much, Dima! We're so hoppy you stopped by!The disabled viewing is a bit off to the side for Fantasmic! It’s not our favorite spot to see, to be honest, but the upside is that the wait to view is not as long as your other options. If you get a regular FASTPASS and arrive much earlier than the opening return time, you can get in front of the crowd by the water. You can also get standby viewing if you want to arrive about 2 hours early and get a spot on the railing on the tier just above and behind the restaurant crowd so you can see (though we realize this isn't ideal for tadpoles!) Cast Members are super hopful in our experience if you run into any questions on the day of your visit! Have a frogtastic trip!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 30, 2022 at 3:58 p.m. cristina Says...

If My child has DAS pass will there be a selection to get reserved seating for Fantasmic or will I also have to purchse genie + in order to do this? We are traveling first week of july.

Reply
Jul 5, 2022 at 8:17 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Christina!

There is only one special reserved area for guests with wheelchairs and ECVs, but it's available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There isn't an area specifically for DAS or Genie+ users.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 1, 2019 at 7:30 a.m. Devi Says...

I will be going to Disneyland in mid May and I don’t see Fantasmic on the Disneyland calendar... does that mean there won’t be any shows or they just haven’t added them to the calendar yet?

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May 1, 2019 at 12:09 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Devi!

Disneyland only populates its schedule two months out, so it's likely that Fantasmic! just isn't on the calendar for October yet :) As far as we know, it should be running in October, so we suggest checking back over the next few months.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Feb 12, 2019 at 11:38 p.m. Barbara Francis Says...

Is there a Fantasmic! show 4/30, 5/1, 2, or 3

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Feb 13, 2019 at 9:32 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Barbara!

Those dates for Fantasmic! have not been released just yet (only show dates through the end of March are available at this time), but keep an eye out on the Schedule of Events for more information.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Oct 26, 2018 at 5:06 a.m. Michelle Says...

Thanks for the great info! Question about the dining package at River Belle and the $25 upgrade to be seated with your dinner for the first show. Is that a good spot to watch from. For some reason I'm picturing obstructed views by passerbys. Do people walking by obstruct the views of those seated with that $25 upgrade?

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Oct 26, 2018 at 9:01 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Michelle!

You are raised a little above the people walking by but it’s possible you could see them. They won’t obstruct the view but they may be a slight distraction depending on where your table is.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Aug 27, 2018 at 11:48 p.m. Disneymomma3 Says...

When does Disneyland start showing Fantasmic for the Spring and when does Disneyland shop showing Fantasmic?

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Aug 31, 2018 at 3:42 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi there!

Fantasmic! runs year-round, but only on the weekends during the off-season.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Aug 31, 2018 at 3:42 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi there!

Fantasmic! runs year-round, but only on the weekends during the off-season.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Aug 26, 2018 at 5:27 p.m. julie Says...

I'm confused, is there one ticket for California Adventure (Pixar fest/Pixar pier) or do you need a park hopper to be able to see all? Also, is there any nighttime parade/fireworks at California adventure, the light show is off?

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Aug 28, 2018 at 7:25 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Julie!

Disneyland has two separate parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. To experience both, you either need to visit one park per day for multiple days, OR purchase a park hopper ticket.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jul 15, 2018 at 1:31 p.m. Holly Says...

If we do the 2nd Hungry Bear show in August, how early do we need to arrive for the 2nd show to get good spots? Would we have time to watch the fireworks at 9:30 and head over for the 10:30 Fantasmic and still get front row spots? If not, can we move into the Hungry Bear spots as soon as the first Fantasmic show ends? Thank you!

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Jul 18, 2018 at 11:02 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Holly!

We recommend moving into place for Fanstasmic! as soon as the fireworks end. If you watch the fireworks nearby, you have a good chance of getting front row spots.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jul 6, 2018 at 3:39 a.m. Cheryl Hodge Says...

Hello

I was wondering if I go with the dinning package to and I am using an ECV will the area accommodate me?

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Jul 6, 2018 at 12:28 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Cheryl!

Yes, no worries! Simply chat with the cast member at the reserved seating entrance to help with your accommodations.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jun 21, 2018 at 5:58 p.m. Andrea Says...

So this is our first trip to DW. We have fast passes that say arrive between 8:20 and 8:35. I guess this is the first showing??? So I guess we have the front area and can sit on the ground. And guess this is first come first served. Also what should we do afterwards? Where should we be for fireworks? I have a 14 and 6 year old. So I want them to be able to see. Thank you in advance.

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Jun 21, 2018 at 4:26 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Andrea,

Yes, that is the first showing! Spots are first come, first served so get there early if you want to secure a spot at the front of the FASTPASS viewing section. We recommend staying put after the show to see the fireworks!

Keep hopping!

Leap

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May 31, 2018 at 1:16 a.m. Mike Says...

Would you happen to know of any place you can watch it from a balcony so you are above the crowd? Maybe via dinner reservations or by paying some sort of add on fee for the day?

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Jun 1, 2018 at 6:04 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Mike!

There is no balcony viewing area above the crowd (unless you happen to have friends who can get you into Club 33, which has a small balcony off the dining room.) You can watch from the stand-by area on the bridge by Pirates of the Caribbean. You can dine and watch at River Belle Terrace, but it is not much of a rise. You can dine by the Stage Door Cafe, but it is off to the side and may have obstructions. You are better off getting a dining package that gets you down in front or arrive early for a good stand-by spot. We like the areas to the left of the dining viewing areas or standing behind a planter box on a tier behind the crowd.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Feb 27, 2018 at 6:44 a.m. Bernadette Says...

You Frogs are the best! I always check with you before a trip and always get great advice! Just to confirm, you said the RB Terrace view (from the terrace) is probably not as good as the RBT reserved area? I don't have kids, don't mind the extra cost, and would love to avoid the early arrival for the front row, but also want the very best view or close to it. Also, can I stay at my reserved seating down by the water for the fireworks?

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Mar 7, 2018 at 12:31 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Bernadette,

The RBT is fine, but a little farther from the action! You can see most of the show, but may have some trouble viewing some floats on the water. It is elevated above the crowd, but is still behind the crowd. It is pretty central to the show. The reserved viewing area will be closer to the water. You should still arrive early to that area, even with a voucher because the first voucher holders to arrive get the best spots. After the first show ends, people can stay in place to watch the fireworks, which begin about 3 minutes after Fantasmic! ends.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Feb 22, 2018 at 6:28 a.m. Erin H Says...

Hi,

I'm wondering if there is a updated version or maybe more detailed( unless I missed it, in which case in sorry) : We got the 'Mark Twain viewing area'. It was really tuff with the kids because that area is standing room only. If I had known that, I might have just tried for a better area the next night.

Thank you ????

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Feb 22, 2018 at 1 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Erin,

We try to keep our information as updated as possible! Thank you for the tip!

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Feb 20, 2018 at 8:37 a.m. Elly Says...

Hi Could you tell me the best viewing area for Rapunzel and Flynn?

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Feb 22, 2018 at 12:56 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Elly,

All floats and boats pass by all of the viewing areas! So if you're able to grab a spot where you can see the center stage on Tom Sawyer Island, then you'll be good. The areas bordering the water on Rivers of America offer the best viewing spots for everything in the show.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Feb 6, 2018 at 1:15 p.m. Laurie Says...

We reserved the 8pm ungraded seating at river belle to watch the 9pm show. Can we see fireworks from our seats? What would offer the best experience? Will be a group of 4 from age 9 to 68!

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Feb 6, 2018 at 3:31 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Laurie,

Yes, you'll be able to see the fireworks from your seats. In fact, it's wise to stay where you are after the 9:00 p.m. show of Fantasmic! because it'll be hectic trying to get to the Castle. Stay where you are and enjoy the fireworks from there!

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Jan 3, 2018 at 7:39 p.m. Maria Whelan Says...

Are there any reservations that give you a chair to sit in up front close to the water or are all reserved spots on the ground

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Jan 10, 2018 at 11:29 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Maria,

Chairs are only available for special circumstances. If this is the case for you, feel free to chat with a Cast Member before the show! Fast Passes and dining packages offer standing room or ground seating.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Oct 7, 2017 at 6:22 a.m. Marcella Senteno Says...

Where exactly in frontier land do you find the kiosk for the Fantasmic fast passes?

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Oct 9, 2017 at 9:38 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi,

The Kiosks are located near Frontier Landing (where you board the Mark Twain and Columbia ships).

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Oct 5, 2017 at 8:09 p.m. Matt Brown Says...

Attending Fantasmic this Saturday (Second show) with Hungry Bear dining packages at 8pm. Was curious our game plan should be to eat, enjoy the fireworks and the then Fantasmic. Thank you

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Oct 6, 2017 at 2:04 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Matt,

That will work. It's best if you watch the Fireworks near the Rivers of America so you can avoid the crush of people heading for the exits.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Oct 1, 2017 at 4:58 a.m. Val F Says...

Hi

Do you know if Fantasmic! Is on weekdays in early May?

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Oct 1, 2017 at 8:26 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Val,

If there are May performances, we'd expect them to be Friday-Sunday.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Sep 5, 2017 at 12:48 a.m. Cristabel Says...

Do you know if Fantasmic will be playing during the month of December and is there going to be a Chtistmas theme?

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Sep 5, 2017 at 10:19 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Cristabel,

The Fantasmic schedule for December is not available yet. We would expect it to be playing on weekends. We have not heard if it will have a Christmas theme.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 22, 2017 at 2:57 p.m. Riana Says...

Hi! Thanks for the info!

Do you know if my family enters California adventure, but then sends someone over with all of our tickets to get fantasmic fastpasses at Disneyland if it will work? (Park hoppers, of course)

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Aug 22, 2017 at 11:57 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Riana,

Yes, you can send your runner with all the tickets to get FASTPASS for Fantasmic!

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Aug 18, 2017 at 5:37 p.m. Leon Says...

Going next week. Have Hungry Bear to go with Fastpass for 1st show. Will we be able to see the fireworks from that location or should we try to move quickly to somewhere else?

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Aug 18, 2017 at 1:34 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Leon,

You should be able to see most of the high fireworks from Hungry Bear but miss the projections. We would move quickly to get a better spot.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Aug 18, 2017 at 3:05 a.m. Debi H Says...

Can you tell me where each of the dining option seating is? I assume BB is the best but where are the others placed?

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Aug 18, 2017 at 8:15 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Debi,

The dining locations are the Blue Bayou and River Belle Terrace. Cafe Orleans will offer the package from September 5 - November 16 while River Belle goes under refurbishment.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Aug 18, 2017 at 12:07 a.m. Nicole Says...

Do they have the dessert package any more? I also remember them having a section with actual seats, do they still do this?

Thanks

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Aug 18, 2017 at 8:16 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

There is no dessert package currently available. Yes, there was a small location set up with chairs that purchased that package.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 12, 2017 at 7:38 a.m. Nicole Says...

Hi,

We will be there in October, will this show be on during the weekdays? And if we tried to get a dinner fantasmic package at blue bayou what time dinning would give us tixkets to the last show? Thanks

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Aug 14, 2017 at 1:13 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

Fantasmic is usually weekends-only during the fall. For the later show (10-10:30 p.m.), dine between 7:35 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. Again, dine early so you have time to get in place for the show.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Aug 11, 2017 at 9:50 p.m. Shannon Says...

On the Disneyland website it says that Fastpasses for the first show are issued first and the second show is issued after the Fastpasses for the 1st show run out. Any tricks to getting Fastpasses for the 2nd show, other than a dining reservation?

Thank You!

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Aug 14, 2017 at 1:14 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Shannon,

Check with the Cast Members at the FASTPASS machines. They will have the best indication on when the machines will switch over to the later show.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Aug 11, 2017 at 8:17 p.m. Nicole Van Gaalen Says...

Hi there!

With the Fantasmic! Dining Packages (say Blue Bayou), how early should you arrive before the show?

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Sep 4, 2017 at 3:38 a.m. Darrell Garner Says...

Nicole,

I am sitting at the rail for Fantasmic this evening - 9:00 show and got the FP at the Blue Bayou - little expensive, but works well for a good dinner and good seats. To sit at the rail, arrive at the viewing entrance by 7:45 you will start to be let in the actual viewing area at approximately 8:05. It is sitting on the ground (Blue Bayou provided sitting pads) and you'll need to claim your space in a open seating fashion - if you arrive by 7:45, you should get seating in the first or second row from the rail. Bring a beach towel or something to cover your party as you will get wet from the water screens used in the show - have fun!

Reply
Mar 3, 2019 at 11:35 p.m. Preston Says...

Darrell, do you know if they allow standing at the very back of that section? Will be going with my father in a few months but he isn't able to sit on the ground and it sounds like they want everyone sitting. Would he be able to stand back by the folks in the wheelchairs, or would he still be blocking someone's view and asked to sit?

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Aug 14, 2017 at 1:20 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

While your spots are saved, we would arrive 45 before the show to make sure you have a great view.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Aug 14, 2017 at 1:16 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

While you spots are saved, we would arrive 45 before the show to make sure you have a great view.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 4, 2017 at 11:51 a.m. Tyler Says...

When do you recommend seeing Fantasmic in your 2-Day touring plan? This would also mean planning in some time to run to Frontierland for a FP.

Thanks!

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Aug 7, 2017 at 7:38 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tyler,

It depends on when you're going. If it's after August 20, then see it in place of Main Street Electrical Parade. If it's before, we recommend the later show, usually at 10:30 p.m. Snag that Fastpass first, then start on the park plan.

Keep Hopping!

Leap

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Jul 30, 2017 at 10 p.m. Mary Says...

Does Fantasmic (and World of Color) typically run during the off-season? We will be going to Disneyland for three days last week of January / first week of February.

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Aug 1, 2017 at 3:47 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Mary,

Yes, you should still be able to experience these shows.

Keep hopping!

Leap

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Jul 26, 2017 at 11:43 p.m. Nicole Says...

Wondering how the view is for River Belle Terrace premium seating at 8pm...I already have a reservation. Would you recommend that one or sitting on the ground closer to the front? We will be traveling with three kids under age 11...not sure how they will do sitting on the ground for an hour and a half waiting for the show to start. But, I'm also worried they won't have a very good view of the River from that far back. It's been 5 years since we have been there and probably 20 years since I have seen any evening shows! What do you think? Thanks!

Reply
Jul 27, 2017 at 4:25 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

It seems the premium seating for River Belle Terrace is far away from the show. If you're concerned about your kids having a great view of the show and being close to the action, we recommend the regular reserved seating near the front by the river.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 24, 2017 at 4:01 p.m. Estela Says...

Hi!

Do you know where the seating area is for the Hungry Bear dining package? And does this section also require you to sit on the ground? Thanks!!

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Jul 25, 2017 at 12:03 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Estela,

The seating area is similar to those with FASTPASSes for the show (closest and lowest sections). You will have to either stand or sit on the ground.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
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