The Magic Kingdom fireworks show is one of the most popular and exciting entertainment experiences at Walt Disney World in Florida.
If you’re spending time in Magic Kingdom, you must check out the fireworks show that happens every night at 9 PM in the summer and 8 PM in the winter. It’s a spectacular display of lights and colors that takes place over Cinderella Castle and down Main Street, USA.
It’s not just the kids who love it! Watching the fireworks is a great way to end your day at Disney, no matter who you are. Keep reading to discover all the best places to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks
The Magic Kingdom fireworks have drawn crowds to the spectacular show at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom park since it started running on October 1, 1971. The fireworks get projected on Cinderella’s Castle and courtyard, with a musical soundtrack and projections of Disney characters.
The show debuted as part of The World’s Most Magical Celebration: the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary and continues until March 2023. The fireworks extravaganza features remixed Disney songs, including an original song by Grammy-winning composer Philip Lawrence.
The Best Place To Watch Fireworks in Magic Kingdom
If you’re looking to catch a great view of the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show, here are our top tips for finding the best place to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks inside the park. If you plan to watch them from one of these spots, be sure to arrive 45 minutes to an hour early to find the best spot before it gets too packed!
The Hub or Areas Near and Around the Partners Statue
The hub is the center of the park, and there are few better places to watch fireworks than from within it. The Partners Statue is a great place to view Magic Kingdom fireworks, as well as the castle projection show “Wishes.” This spot is even one of Disney’s top recommendations.
This area is located at the end of Main Street, USA, just before you reach Cinderella Castle. A line of benches circles around a giant statue depicting Walt Disney holding hands with Mickey Mouse (hence why it’s called “The Partners Statue”). The views from here are excellent, and all you have to do is look straight ahead at one of Magic Kingdom’s tallest points: Cinderella Castle!
The Partners Statue makes an excellent place for photos, too—and there are plenty of photo opportunities around this area that make it easier than ever to capture your favorite moments during these two shows!
The Train Station on Main Street
The Train Station on Main Street is one of the most iconic spots in Magic Kingdom. People keep flocking to this area every day because it’s a fantastic place to watch the fireworks! This spot offers a perfect view of Cinderella Castle. It also allows guests to mingle with other visitors and enjoy various entertainment options throughout the day.
Side Streets of Main Street
If you want to watch the fireworks but don’t want to join the masses inside the park, multiple streets surrounding Magic Kingdom will give you a great view. The only downside is that you won’t be able to see Cinderella Castle or any of its iconic landmarks.
On Main Street itself (and side streets), there are plenty of places to watch the show from. You can see it from all sides—unless you’re near one of those pesky trees! If this is an issue for you, hit up any other street around Magic Kingdom and enjoy your unobstructed view!
Tomorrowland
The best spot to watch the fireworks at Tomorrowland is at the entrance to Tomorrowland itself, where you’ll be able to watch them on a raised platform above the crowds and get an up-close look at how they get set off. You can also find prime viewing on the Tomorrowland People Mover, which will take you right under where they get launched from.
Cast members open a big gate between the Plaza Inn and Tomorrowland Terrace. Once you decide to wrap up your night, head toward the gate to exit the park quickly.
Pinocchio’s Village Haus
You’ll find Pinocchio’s Village Haus at the end of the Fantasyland walkway, just past Mickey’s PhilharMagic and Peter Pan. The view from here is excellent. You can see Cinderella Castle without having to crane your neck, and you won’t have any trouble spotting Tinkerbell flying around during showtime either.
If you want to be sure not to miss anything in this area, head up towards Storybook Circus first. There are plenty of spots along Main Street, USA, near Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station.
You can also go to the edge of Tomorrowland, where you can get a good view without being too close to one another or near too much crowd traffic (just watch out for people heading into Tomorrowland Speedway).
Gaston’s Tavern in Fantasyland
One of the best places to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks is Gaston’s Tavern in Fantasyland. You can sit on the patio outside or even inside if you want to stay out of the heat and humidity. But if you’re looking for a unique experience, go all-in with a spot on that bridge that leads passersby into Fantasyland. It’s magical!
Frontierland Bridge by Splash Mountain
There are tons of places to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks, but one of our favorites is on the Frontierland bridge. Not only will you be able to see all of the fireworks from this spot, but you’ll also get a great view of Splash Mountain and Tom Sawyer Island. The best part? You can see it all from one spot!
Head over to Main Street, USA, if you want an even better view than we’ve described above. You’ll find reserved seating available for viewing these fantastic displays of lights and color in celebration of Happily Ever After!
Behind Cinderella Castle at Fantasyland
Another excellent place to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks is behind Cinderella Castle at Fantasyland. This spot provides a great view of both the castle and your entertainment options.
The fireworks are very visible, and the castle grounds offer plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the show together. This area also provides access to several restaurants if you want something delicious before or after your viewing experience!
On Rides
If you’re looking for the best place to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks but don’t want to miss out on other entertainment, look no further than your favorite rides!
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is one of our favorite spots to catch a view of the fireworks. You can get a great view from the outside of the ride or from inside the mine car!
Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain is another great place to catch a glimpse of these spectacular fireworks. You might get a bit wet, but after a long, hot day, it might be the best way to cool off while enjoying an incredible show.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is also a top choice if you want to watch the fireworks while riding a roller coaster! This ride has excellent views of Cinderella Castle and Liberty Square, making it easy to see the fireworks as they go off.
Tomorrowland People Mover
Though it might sound counterintuitive, the Tomorrowland PeopleMover is the perfect place to watch fireworks. The ride is a slow-moving automated tour through Tomorrowland, and you can stop at any point along the way to enjoy the show.
It’s a great way for everyone in your family to catch their breath after an exhausting day in the park, allowing you to watch all the action.
Dumbo
When you’re on the Dumbo ride, it feels like you’re floating in the sky. And that’s precisely where you’ll be when you look up and see fireworks exploding. It’s a truly magical experience!
Best Places To Watch Fireworks at a Disney Dessert Party
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to treat yourself, the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Party is the perfect way to spend an evening in the park.
The Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Dessert Party at Magic Kingdom Park gives you a guaranteed spot at the hub, so you can enjoy the view from a prime location without worrying about getting there first.
Themed desserts prepared by a pastry chef from Disney include butterscotch pudding, strawberries dipped in chocolate, cheese, and an assortment of wine and beer.
Choose among three Dessert Party options for priority viewing of the fireworks show.
The 50th Anniversary Disney Enchantment Treats & Seats
The Tomorrowland Terrace is the perfect spot to watch the Disney Enchantment nighttime spectacular from a seated view. This extraordinary dessert event includes reserved seating and your choice of delicious desserts.
Reservations are encouraged, and check-in begins 60 minutes before the fireworks launch. You can expect to pay more than $100 per adult and for children over 10, and in the region of $70 per child. The price of Treats & Seats is not included with Magic Kingdom ticket admission.
The Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks – The PRE Party
After enjoying your sweets and before fireworks dazzle, cast members escort you to a prime standing area in the Plaza Garden for priority viewing of the show.
Make reservations two weeks in advance. Arrive at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant 90 minutes before Disney Enchantment nighttime spectacular. The cost is about $99 per adult (ages ten and up) and around $59 per child (ages 3 to 9). The Pre Party price is not included with ticket admission.
The Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks – The POST Party
Arrive at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant 60 minutes before the fireworks begin. Before the show, cast members escort Post Party viewers to a prime standing area in the Plaza Garden for priority viewing of fireworks. After the show, cast members accompany you back to the restaurant to enjoy dessert and drinks.
You may make reservations on the same day, but you’re encouraged to make them well in advance. The cost is similar to the costs of the Pre Party. The Post Party price is not included with ticket admission.
Best Places To Watch Fireworks Outside of the Magic Kingdom Park
When you’re at Disney World, fireworks are a must. But what if you want to enjoy them in a way that’s a little more special than watching them from the park?
Outside of the park, you can view the fireworks from many of the surrounding Disney resorts, walkways, and restaurants. Here are our favorite spots to view the fireworks outside the Magic Kingdom.
Contemporary Resort Fireworks Dessert Party at the California Grill
Celebrate the magic of Disney with your family and friends at “Celebration at the Top,” a unique cocktail party on the 15th floor of Contemporary Resort that includes food, drinks, dessert, and music for around $130 per person.
Enjoy small bites, favorite dishes from the California Grill menu, beer, wine, and cordials while you watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a private observation deck reserved just for you.
The lights will dim on the deck when fireworks start, so you can watch in full glory as they light up the sky around Cinderella Castle. After the fireworks show ends, enjoy petit four desserts and coffee or cordials in their lounge area.
Contemporary Resort Bay Lake Tower’s Skyway Bridge
If you’re looking for a great spot to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks, look no further than the walkway between the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower.
There’s limited seating on the balcony beneath the monorail, but it’s well worth it since you’ll get a fabulous view of Cinderella Castle and all of the action happening around it.
Disney’s Polynesian Resort Beach
The Polynesian Resort has so many great places to view these fireworks that it’s hard to pick just one. If you want to sit on the beach, head to the Seven Seas Lagoon and grab a seat.
There are benches throughout the resort and near water if you want to get up close and personal with nature. Or book a stay at a waterfront bungalow so you can be right next to all of that beautiful water.
Grand Floridian Resort
Sure, it’s easy to see them from within the Magic Kingdom park—and there are plenty of good spots for that. But if you want to get in the spirit of things, you need to head out on the beach and watch them explode in color as they reflect off the surface of Seven Seas Lagoon.
The Grand Floridian Resort offers an incredible view of Magic Kingdom firework displays while you dine on some of the best food in all of Disney World. The Narcoossee restaurant has a verandah overlooking white sand beaches. Watch the fireworks from your seat or walk along the beach and watch them from there.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground
You can view the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a distance at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground. It’s not as loud, so it’s great for families with young children.
You won’t see the projection display, but you’ll still get to hear the music from the castle as it plays during the show! To make your viewing experience even better, watch the Electrical Water Pageant floating nighttime parade across Seven Seas Lagoon after the fireworks end.
Disney Transportation Vehicle
The Transportation and Ticket Center is a great place to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks because it’s near the ferry boat dock, which means you can get there quickly, enjoy the show, and make a quick exit. Plus, music plays all day long—which makes for a fun atmosphere!
Fairytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise
The Seven Seas Lagoon is the place to be on Wednesday and Saturday nights. You’ll see the fireworks over Cinderella Castle, with a special treat from KABOOM! Rocket Burst Popcorn Push-Ups, Cupcakes, Grand Finale Key Lime Tarts, and Red Velvet Wow! Pie.
You can also make your Mousse while you watch the fireworks. They also have specialty drinks with fun names like the Firecracker Fizz. And the crew will tell you all about your boat’s backstory and how Walt Disney came up with the idea for Disneyland and Epcot Center.
You’ll also get Ultraviolet glasses to wear during the fireworks show to experience it in a whole new way. Make reservations before 5 PM. Tickets for adults and children over 10 are around $99, and $69 for children between the ages of 3 and 9.
Private Fireworks Cruise
There’s no better way to watch fireworks than from the water! Watch fireworks from the comfort of a 25-foot boat on a private fireworks cruise. You and up to nine friends will get a captain, snacks, soft drinks, and banners/balloons included in your voyage.
You can enjoy this fantastic experience at International Gateway near World Showcase Lagoon during Epcot’s fireworks show or on Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake near Magic Kingdom park. They offer charters from several marinas:
- Contemporary Marina
- Polynesian Marina
- Grand Floridian Marina
- Fort Wilderness Marina
- Wilderness Lodge Marina.
Magic Kingdom Fireworks FAQ
Do you still have questions about the Magic Kingdom’s fabulous fireworks display? Here are some common questions others are asking.
Are there fireworks every night in the Magic Kingdom in 2022?
Yes, the fireworks show is on every night. They typically begin between 8:00 PM and 9:20 PM, depending on the time of year. You can see them from anywhere in the park with a clear view of Cinderella Castle (including Main Street USA and Tomorrowland).
Are there Magic Kingdom fireworks during rainy days?
While the fireworks schedule confirms that they run every night, they are subject to cancellation or delay due to weather conditions. The fireworks show does not proceed during storms or lightning, so if you’re visiting during inclement weather, you’ll want to check our website for updates on whether or not the show will be running that night.
Can you leave Magic Kingdom and come back for fireworks?
Yes, you can leave Magic Kingdom and return on the same day. A few days of the year, the park reaches capacity and limits entry to the park, but those are few and far between. You are not charged any additional fee for returning on the same day.
Can you ride rides after fireworks at Magic Kingdom?
The Magic Kingdom is open from 9 AM to 11 PM, but the park could close earlier than that on event nights. The fireworks show typically begins between 8 PM to 9:20 PM and lasts for 18 minutes.
On most nights, you should be able to ride rides after fireworks if you’re already in the park. Alternatively, you’ll enjoy a great view of the fireworks on rides while the show is playing. While others gather to view the show on Main Street, you can enjoy rides with short lines.
How long is the Magic Kingdom fireworks show?
The Magic Kingdom fireworks show lasts 18 minutes, and it’s a great way to end your day at the park. The show features lasers and lights all over Cinderella Castle, and it incorporates updated versions of classic Disney songs. The show times change every few months, so make sure you check the park schedule before you go!
So, Where’s the Best Place To Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks?
We hope we were able to take the guesswork out of viewing the fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Sitting on Main Street offers one of the best viewing options if you’re looking for an exciting way to enjoy the evening at this park.
For those who don’t want to stay inside the park, watching from outdoor viewing areas at a Disney resort is still a good choice. If you prefer adventure, taking a boat tour with your friends or family is a great way to settle in for an evening of fireworks and fun. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, book seats at one of Walt Disney World’s dessert parties.
More about our TFVG Author
A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.
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- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
- James Brockbankhttps://www.thefamilyvacationguide.com/author/james/
