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The "Star Wars" presence is in full Force (get it?) at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge transports guests to the far away planet of Batuu, where travelers can build their own droids and lightsabers, socialize at Oga's Cantina, take flight on the Millennium Falcon or escape from a First Order Star Destroyer. The real showstopper, however, is the nighttime show, Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular! (Currently, the show is temporarily unavailable during Disney World's phased reopening.) You might need a little more than Jedi mind tricks to navigate the park as cast members prepare for this nightly "Star Wars"-themed fireworks show, but hoppily, we're here to help!
The original "Star Wars" fireworks show, Symphony in the Stars, has transformed into a bigger, bolder show full of projections, pyrotechnics and of course, the unmistakable "Star Wars" themes. It has essentially become THE Hollywood Studios fireworks. This galaxy-sized extravaganza journeys through the entire "Star Wars" saga as favorite characters and moments surround the audience, along with a 180-degree fireworks display. From the twin suns of Tattooine to the swamps of Dagobah, the Death Star to Starkiller Base, this is certainly one show "Star Wars" fans will not want to miss! Here are our tips for getting around Disney's Hollywood Studios for fireworks viewing.
Tips for Viewing Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Mind the closures and changes in traffic flow. Unlike its predecessor, the new fireworks show does not require any attractions to close. The park has an all-new fireworks launch area that removes the fallout zone that previously had to close for fireworks displays. However, the new show does affect some areas, including the Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway courtyard. This traffic flow on Commissary Lane may also be slightly altered prior to and during the show. Cast members usually direct guests away from the exit and courtyard of the Chinese Theater. Because of the projections, the Hollywood Boulevard and Center Stage areas become congested very quickly. To get a viewing spot in these areas, plan to arrive early!
Look out for tape lines and roped off areas. Although attractions no longer close, there are still a few roped off areas and taped walkways to allow guests to safely navigate through the park and viewing areas during Disney's Hollywood Studios fireworks. Take note of taped lines that designate walkways from viewing areas. Guests are not permitted to watch the show from the walkways.
Scope out your viewing spot early. This is even more important than it was previously due to the addition of the projections. It is a smart idea to know where you intend to watch the show. That way, you don’t waste time fighting through the crowd for the perfect viewing spot. Keep in mind that the Wonderful World of Animation projection show is now showing shortly before Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular nightly, so a crowd will already be in the courtyard area. Some people may leave, but others could stick around. Consider catching both shows if you really want to grab your preferred spot.
If you’re coming from Fantasmic!, we recommend following Sunset Boulevard up to the main street, then follow the pathway over to Echo Lake to the viewing area near Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner.
Note the time(s) for Fantasmic! Speaking of Fantasmic!, it’s hopful to know the showtimes for the park’s nighttime show, whether you plan to attend or not. Fantasmic! is the nightly stage performance held in the amphitheater near Tower of Terror. The times for these two shows can vary. Sometimes during the slow season, the two shows start at the same time.
However, during busier peak times, Fantasmic! tends to let out shortly before Disney's Hollywood Studios fireworks begin. This means those waiting to view the fireworks on Hollywood Boulevard will likely experience a massive influx of people around the time the show lets out. For those coming from Fantasmic!, note that the viewing areas on Hollywood Boulevard and up to Center Stage do fill very quickly. Your best bet for good viewing is to follow the path in front of the Brown Derby toward the Animation Courtyard. You could also follow the walkway around toward Echo Lake up to the Hyperion Theater (home of the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration).
Try a Dessert Party Package for reserved viewing. This show has proven to be extremely popular, making it somewhat difficult to secure a great view without waiting for quite some time. To avoid the hassle of claiming a spot early, try the Dessert Party Package. As part of this package, guests can enjoy different "Star Wars"-inspired sweets indoors at Star Wars Launch Bay. Following the treats, partygoers head over to their reserved viewing area near Center Stage. For details and reservations, call 407-WDW-DINE, check availability online or visit your resort concierge or Guest Relations.
We hope these tips for Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios help you make the most of your visit. As always, may the Force be with you! Hop over to our Plan Your Days in Orlando page for more tips, part of our Orlando Planning Timeline!
Related: Disney's Hollywood Studios FastPass+ Attractions and Entertainment Options
Related: Our Galactic Guide to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney World
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