fantasmic hollywood studios characters

Home » Walt Disney World » Theme Parks and Touring » Disney’s Hollywood Studios » Fantasmic!

Fantasmic! is a nighttime spectacular at Hollywood Studios . This show features many Disney movies and characters all themed around a dream in which Mickey Mouse uses the power of imagination to help good to conquer evil. Many characters and movies are referenced in the show, but a few major movies to look out for include: Pocahontas, Fantasia, Pinocchio, Aladdin, and Sleeping Beauty. This show is extra special because Mickey is seen in several different roles including the Brave Little Tailor, Steamboat Willie, and Sorcerer Mickey.

Fantasmic! is a 25-minute show that can be seen in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater. This spectacular features water effects, lasers, fire, and fireworks to create and amazing show. There are amazing water screens with projections along with huge fountains and dramatic fire effects. All of this comes together to create a memorable and dramatic show. This show has some scenes that may be scary for young children. These include a snake scene with Jafar and a fiery battle with the dragon Maleficent. These villain scenes may be frightening, but most of the show is light-hearted and fun, and as always there is a happy ending!

Ride Information   Restrictions   Location   Fun Facts   Top 5 Tips

Ride Information

Opening Day: October 15, 1998

Type of Ride: Elaborate theater presentation

Age Recommendation: All ages

Duration of Ride: 25 minutes

Typical Queue Time: None; shows are held at scheduled times throughout the day

Single Rider Line: No

Chicken Exit Available: No

Baby Swap Available: No

Type of Vehicle: Benches

Type of Restraint: None

Attraction Open During Early Theme Park Entry: No. See our Early Theme Park Entry page for more information.

Ride Photo Available For Purchase: No

Ride Restrictions

Height Requirements: None

Flash Photography or Video Allowed: No

Shopping:  Disney villain merchandise and candy are available for purchase nearby at “Beverly Sunset”; and plush dolls and assorted souvenirs are sold at “Legends of Hollywood.”

Dining/Refreshment: Whether you are craving burgers, pizza, or barbecue, you can satisfy your palate across Sunset Boulevard among Rosie’s All-American Café , Catalina Eddie’s , and Fairfax Fare .

Restroom: Facilities convenient to Fantasmic! are situated near the entrance to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror .

Smoking Location: Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only. Disney parks are smoke free.

Fantasmic! Fun Facts

Did you know.

• Fantasmic! originally debuted in Disneyland in 1992. The show debuted at Hollywood Studios in 1998.
• The Hollywood Hills Amphitheater has a max capacity of 9,900.
• A version of Fantasmic! can be seen in 3 different Disney parks internationally. These include: Disneyland, Hollywood Studios, and Tokyo Disney Sea.

 Top 5 Tips for Fantasmic!

• Come to Fantasmic! early in order to get one of the better seats in the amphitheater. The theater opens 90 minutes prior to showtime and there is some entertainment in the form of sing-a-longs and dancing to keep guests entertained before the show begins.
• Fantasmic! is not shown every night. Check the MyDisneyExperience app or the times guide for showtimes during your trip.
• There are snacks available for purchase inside the theater.
• To save some money , you could come prepared with glow sticks or a cheap light-up toy, to prevent the inevitable begging for an overpriced light-up toy from Disney.

Privacy Overview

16 Can’t-Miss Disneyland Shows & Other Live Entertainment

All the festive fun coming to disney this holiday season.

A Fantastic Guide to Fantasmic! at Disney World

With its flashy fountains and pyrotechnics, a star-studded cast of popular Disney characters, beloved music, and an action-packed story sure to have you on the edge of your seat, Fantasmic has long been a must for any Walt Disney World vacation. Sadly, due to the pandemic, the thrilling nighttime spectacular was forced out of commission for quite some time, taking a two-and-a-half-year pause. 

However, following its Covid-19 hiatus, Sorcerer Mickey is finally back on the stage of the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater once more. Fantasmic is back at Disney World in Hollywood Studios , a nd we couldn’t be more excited! 

Ready to see Mickey battle it out with the forces of good and evil on your next trip to Disney World? Keep reading for everything you need to know about watching Disney’s Fantasmic!, from how to get the best seats to which characters you’ll see. 

Fantasmic, Hollywood Studios’ Epic Nightly Battle of Good vs. Evil

Premiering at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the Fall of 1998, more than six years after it first debuted at Disneyland , Fantasmic! has been a Walt Disney World favorite for over 24 years. More than just a fireworks show, this nighttime spectacular is a kaleidoscope of pyrotechnics, lasers, colorful water effects, well-known songs and much-loved Disney characters. A compelling combination, to be sure! 

Starring Mickey Mouse, the show’s story takes guests through the mouse hole and into Mickey’s vivid imagination. However, what starts as a fairy tale soon turns into a nightmare, with Mickey duking it out with some of the most diabolical Disney Villains, like Aladdin ’s Jafar in the form of a glowing-eyed snake or Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty towering menacingly as a 40-foot-tall dragon. Will good triumph over evil? You’ll just have to watch and find out. 

Where and when is Fantasmic at Disney World? 

Fantasmic takes place down Sunset Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, with at least one showing per night. Showtime is typically at either 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM on evenings with only one show, while twice-nightly performances are usually at 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM. Seating begins 90 minutes before showtime.

You’ll also want to keep in mind that due to the nature of Fantasmic’s open-air setting, showings may be cut short, postponed or canceled altogether in the event of inclement weather.  For the most up-to-date information, refer to the My Disney Experience app . 

With the addition of a heroic, all-new sequence following its November 2022 re-debut, the show runs for 29 minutes from beginning to end, a roughly two-to-three-minute increase over its previous, pre-COVID iteration. Whether it’s the only showing of the night or the last of the evening, the show often starts when Hollywood Studios closes for the night. So, plan your time accordingly. 

Are reservations required for Fantasmic in Disney World?

You don’t need a reservation to see Fantasmic! at Disney World. That said, reserved seating can come in handy if you don’t want to waste time waiting in line or absolutely must have a more centered view, and can be booked with the Fantasmic Dining Package or possibly Disney Genie+ . We’ll have to see once the show opens in a few days. 

What characters are in Disney World’s Fantasmic?

Longstanding favorites in Fantasmic at Walt Disney World include characters from such popular animated films as Pocahontas , Aladdin , Sleeping Beauty , Fantasia , Beauty and the Beast , Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and The Little Mermaid . 

Following the show’s post-pandemic makeover, Fantasmic fans are also sure to love a heroic sequence that lets guests “journey with our heroes,” with brand-new appearances by Disney characters from Moana , Mulan , Frozen 2 and more. All in all, it’s an excellent opportunity to cram a ton of character sightings into a very short period of time. 

Best Places to Watch Fantasmic!

Disney World offers a day filled with immersive rides, exciting shows, loveable characters and all sorts of family-friendly fun. While you certainly should cap off at least two of your nights with showings of the Epcot and Magic Kingdom fireworks, we can’t imagine a more perfect finale to such a magical day than Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios. 

Needless to say, you won’t want to miss it. But where are the best seats to watch Fantasmic? Well, you’re in luck. As the show is held in an outdoor amphitheater with bench seats curving around the lagoon towards the stage, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. 

Having said that, the closer you can get to the middle section (typically reserved for those with the Fantasmic dining package), the more centered your view will be. The far-outside sections, meanwhile, should be avoided at all costs, as you can miss the projections on the water screens, and the music can be out of sync during certain scenes. 

You’ll also want to consider how close to the front you want to be – or not. Although sitting near the water will get you closer to the action, making it easier to snap photos of the show, being immersed in the show isn’t always a good thing, as you could get wet from the water screens or feel hot due to the closeness of the pyrotechnics. Not only will sitting at least halfway back protect you from the show-made elements, but it will also help you to take in the entire display all at once. 

The only way to get reserved seating for Disney World’s Fantasmic is with a Fantasmic Dining Package or, though it hasn’t been confirmed yet, Disney Genie+. Can’t get a reservation? No worries – there’s also plenty of standby seating. 

Fantasmic Standby Seating

You might think that standby seating at Fantasmic means settling for the worst views in the house. Luckily, that isn’t the case. In the past, standby seating was located in the four areas on the right-hand side of the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater. At close to half of the amphitheater’s six sections, there are abundant opportunities for a great view, even if you aren’t able to plan ahead. 

Just remember that seeing the show on standby can potentially mean a long wait in line, especially if you want to score the best seats the standby section has to offer. So, we recommend you consider the rest of your plans for the day to determine whether it might be worth it’s worth the wait or time for an upgrade.  

Fantasmic Disney Genie+ Seating 

Previously, FastPass+ (Disney Genie+’s pre-pandemic precursor) seating for Fantasmic was located in the four sections of the amphitheater’s left-most side. So, should Disney allow guests to reserve seating for the show using Disney Genie+ , this is where we anticipate it will be. Personally, we love this option as it saves us the hassle of waiting in line for an hour or more for a good spot, freeing up precious time to do other things on our list.

That being said, Genie+ service isn’t currently offered for any of Disney World’s nighttime spectaculars. However, given that the show is held in an amphitheater, along with the show’s incredible popularity, Genie+ would be both relatively easy to implement as well as helpful for crowd control. Not to mention, the possible boost in Disney Genie+ sales. 

On the bright side, should Disney use Genie+ for Fantasmic, we anticipate that there will likely be a fair amount of availability later on in the day since many people tend to save their early Genie+ reservations for the park’s most popular attractions. It may even be a freebie reservation in addition to your regular selections. Only time will tell. 

Fantasmic Dining Packages

Everyone’s gotta eat. So, why not follow up dinner with another equally sweet finale in addition to dessert? Along with Hollywood Studios food favorites like burgers from the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater and the 50’s Prime Time Café’s fried chicken, diners with Fantasmic Dining Packages are treated to the best seats the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater has to offer.  

Typically located in the middle two sections of the amphitheater, dining package reserved seating offers the most centered and, as a result, best views of Fantasmic. Although you can’t just stroll into the theater three minutes before showtime and expect a good spot (25 minutes prior is when you’re expected), this does cut down on your wait time considerably compared to sitting in standby. 

Advance reservations for Fantasmic Dining Packages opened on October 26, 2022, and are highly recommended due to the show’s popularity. 

Advance reservations are highly encouraged, although there may be some same-day reservations available on a limited basis. However, please be aware that even if Fantasmic is canceled, your dining reservation still stands, and no partial or full refunds will be offered.  

What is included with the Fantasmic Dining Package? 

Depending on which of the five restaurants you choose, in addition to a non-alcoholic beverage, each Fantasmic Dining Package includes either an entrée and appetizer or dessert or, where applicable, one full buffet. All five options also come with one guaranteed seating voucher per person, which grants the guest access to the Fantasmic Dining Package’s reserved viewing area in the center of the amphitheater. 

However, while the sections are reserved, seats are not assigned and are available exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis. The check-in area is located next to Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage, and you must arrive at least 25 minutes before the start time. 

50’s Prime Time Café 

Nothing says ‘family’ like sharing a meal together at the dinner table. Designed to look like a kitschy, ‘50s-era kitchen, 50’s Prime Time Café cooks up all-American comfort food and old-fashioned fun. Be sure to mind your manners (keep your elbows off the table!) as you tuck into cozy classics like fried chicken, pot roast and meatloaf. And you better finish your vegetables before having dessert – try the pineapple upside-down cake or warm apple crisp. 

• Lunch & Dinner: $51 (plus tax & gratuity) per adult, $22 per child (ages 3 to 9)

Hollywood & Vine

Can’t get enough Disney characters? Indulge in character dining at Hollywood & Vine. In the morning, your little one’s favorite animated stars take center stage for the Disney Junior Play n’ Dine Breakfast. At lunch and dinner, it’s Minnie’s Seasonal Dining , when the mouse-with-the-mostest throws seasonal soirees complete with themed décor, outfits, music, and menu.  

• Breakfast: $54 per adult, $36 per child 
• Lunch & Dinner: $71 per adult, $47 per child  

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano

Say ‘mangia’ (Italian for ‘eat up’) at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Located in the backlots of Grand Avenue, this eclectic Italian eatery dishes up authentically inspired dishes and welcoming vibes. Dig into carb-licious pasta or savory strip steak or chicken beneath a canopy of rustic wood beams and twinkle lights before finishing with some tiramisu. 

• Lunch & Dinner: $54 per adult, $22 per child (ages 3 to 9)

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Cruise into the Sci-Fin Dine-In Theater for a dinner and a show you won’t soon forget. Made to look like an old-school drive-in movie theater – complete with tables shaped like classic cars, car hop servers and pulpy sci-fi clips – this retro restaurant is as whimsical as it gets. While you watch the movie, fuel up on fully loaded burgers as you bathe in the glow of illuminated taillights and a blanket of glittering stars. 

• Lunch & Dinner: $49 per adult, $22 per child (ages 3 to 9)

The Hollywood Brown Derby

You won’t find a classier joint at Disney’s Hollywood Studios than The Hollywood Brown Derby. Based on an iconic eatery of Hollywood’s Golden Age, The Hollywood Brown Derby is the only signature restaurant with a Fantasmic Dining Package. The only thing more elegant than the dining room’s dark wood paneling and star-studded décor is the menu, which features filet mignon, coq au vin and duck à l’orange. Save some room for a slice of Grapefruit Cake, a mainstay of Tinseltown’s heyday. 

• Lunch & Dinner: $73 per adult, $29 per child (ages 3 to 9)

Is the Disney World Fantasmic Dining Package worth it?

Between the tasty meal and the convenience of enjoying reserved seats for the best view in the house, the Fantasmic Dining Package and Disney World can definitely be worth it. Is it a little expensive? Sure, especially if you opt to eat at The Hollywood Brown Derby or do a character meal at Hollywood & Vine. 

However, there are some more affordable options. 50’s Prime Time Café, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and Sci-Fine Dine-In Theater serve up respectable food and oodles of charm at a fraction of the price. Still, between the bottomless eats and character extravaganza that is Hollywood & Vine and the upscale food and setting of The Hollywood Brown Derby, depending on your group’s interests and budget, even the pricier options can be worthwhile, especially when you factor in the VIP seats.

Tips & Tricks for a Fantastic Fantasmic! Experience

Hoping to make your Fantasmic viewing experience as fantastic as possible? Here are some simple suggestions to make the show as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. 

• Waiting around for the second showing could snag you better seats. On nights with two showtimes, the first showing tends to be busier than the second. So, as long as you don’t mind staying out later, consider sticking it out for the last show of the night. Then, once the earlier audience exits, swoop in to claim your victory and more centered seats without as much of a wait.
• Get in line early for a more centered view. If you want the best views of Fantasmic on standby, you’ll need to show up early. The amphitheater opens 90 minutes prior to showtime. In the early days following the show’s return, plan to be there for the opening or risk being stuck on the edges. Otherwise, for a chance at being close to the middle, arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour before showtime.
• Avoid the closest rows if you want to stay dry. Think of the first chunk of rows at Fantasmic as the splash zone at SeaWorld , only with Disney characters and screens of misting water awash with colorful movie scenes instead of frolicking marine mammals. Pick a spot further back if you prefer to stay dry.
• Bring snacks with you to power you through the pre-show wait. An hourlong wait followed by the 30-minute show can be brutal, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve had dinner and you’re dealing with hangry kids (or adults , for that matter). In addition to all the other eateries around the park, you’ll find several restaurants located just outside the amphitheater. So, grab something to snack on to bring with you beforehand and avoid both the crush at the concession stand, as well as any crankiness.  
• Watch your little ones during scary moments. Believe it or not, Mickey’s imagination isn’t always cheese, rainbows and butterflies. Things can get pretty dark when the Disney Villains come to play, and younger children may find certain scenes frightening. Consider giving the show a watch beforehand on YouTube to gauge your child’s potential reaction or, at the very least, keep an eye on them during the show in case they become too concerned with Mickey’s safety. 

Well, Fantasmic fans, that’s a wrap on our guide to this perennial favorite. Where do you like to sit when watching Fantasmic? Which Fantasmic Dining Package restaurant is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Wish you could make the dining packages a little more affordable? Check out our discount Disney World tickets .

The Ultimate Universal Studios Florida Rides Guide

The essential guide to disney’s blizzard beach water park.

Don't Miss A Thing!

• Disneyland attractions
• Disney's Hollywood Studios entertainment
• Disney's Hollywood Studios attractions
• Tokyo DisneySea entertainment
• Former Tokyo DisneySea attractions
• Frontierland attractions
• Sunset Boulevard attractions
• Mediterranean Harbor attractions
• Kingdom Keepers locations
• Disney's Fastpass equipped attractions
• Disney Renaissance
• The Jungle Book
• Beauty and the Beast
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
• The Little Mermaid
• Sleeping Beauty
• The Lion King
• Finding Nemo
• Lilo & Stitch
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Disney Villains
• 101 Dalmatians
• The Hunchback Of Notre Dame
• Alice in Wonderland
• Lady and the Tramp
• The Princess and the Frog
• Song of the South
• Who Framed Roger Rabbit
• Mary Poppins
• Silly Symphonies
• Disney Magic Kingdoms
• Winnie the Pooh
• Firework shows
• Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers
• The Three Little Pigs
• Disney Princesses
• The Disney Afternoon
• Donald Duck
• Mickey Mouse
• Minnie Mouse
• Chip 'n Dale
• New Orleans Square attractions
• New Orleans Square
• Frontierland
• Darkwing Duck
• Jiminy Cricket
• Turning Red
• Português do Brasil
• View history
• Disney's Hollywood Studios
• Tokyo DisneySea

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

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

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

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

Disneyland version

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dragon Maleficent.

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

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

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

Disney's Hollywood Studios version

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

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, recent disney and florida attractions news blog.

• 5 NEW Reasons to Visit Disney Springs This October
• That's It. This Is the Coolest NEW Thing You'll See in EPCOT.
• Why Traveling to Disney World Is About to Get Even EASIER for Some Visitors
• NEWS: There’s A NEW Universal Visa Credit Card COMING SOON
• The Fan-Favorite 'Behind the Attraction' Show Is Returning With a NEW Season to Disney+!
• ( view all posts )

The Only RIGHT Way To See Fantasmic! in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

We get it! You’re tired, you’re hungry after a long day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and you’re anxious to get in that long line for Fantasmic! at the end of the day. What if we told you we had the RIGHT way to see Fantasmic! and make sure you’re not seeing the show on an empty stomach?

You’ve already had quite the day by trying your best to hit all the rides, see all the shows, and do all the meet and greets . How are you going to have the energy to stand in one more long line? We know a tip that can help!

Sometimes half your battle is finding the right place to eat inside the Disney World parks, while the other half is fighting yourself to make it through the rest of the night and hang on long enough to see the nighttime show, even after you’re way past exhausted.

The entire amphitheater is set up to hold a massive amount of people, and the very last thing you want to do at the end of a long and tiresome park day is fish your way through the crowds or stand around for a while prior to being let into the walkway to pick your spot. So if you had a chance to do this ANOTHER way, would you?

Luckily, we’ve got just the solution for you. You see, Fantasmic! performances are set up with a dining package at several of the restaurants at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you opt-in for these packages you’ll have options (subject to availability) for Hollywood & Vine, 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Mama Melrose’s Restaurante Italiano, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, and The Hollywood Brown Derby.

You can grab a package for either lunch or dinner, and it will guarantee you seating for the Fantasmic! show that night. You’ll check in for your reservation, enjoy your food, and when your server comes around to give you the ticket and close out your meal, they’ll give you instructions for the Fantasmic! dining package along with the vouchers.

That sounds like a pretty good deal, right? This one can be a bit tricky though, so you’ll want to pay close attention when you’re making your dining reservations. When you go to book reservations for these restaurants, you’ll need to make certain the reservation states that it’s part of the Fantasmic! dining package and not just a regular reservation for the restaurant. For dining packages, an entree, appetizer or dessert, and a non-alcoholic beverage are all included for one price rather than what you choose to order, while the buffet at Hollywood & Vine with characters and a non-alcoholic beverage is included with the package offering.

So now you’ve been able to solve two problems fairly easily! You’ve had a great meal, much appreciated time off your feet, and when it’s time for the show you’ll walk your dining package vouchers to the front entrance of the Fantasmic! line, and show them to a cast member. They’ll then direct you to the dedicated line, and you’ll make your way up to your designated sections for dining package folks.

After you’ve enjoyed the show be sure to check back in with us at AllEars.net for the latest tips and tricks to help you get the most value out of your Disney vacation.

We’ve Got to Talk About This CONSTANT Ride Problem in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Join the allears.net newsletter  to stay on top of all the breaking disney news you'll also get access to allears tips, reviews, trivia, and more click here to subscribe.

Which is your favorite restaurant to pair with the Fantasmic! dining package? Tell us why in the comments!

Trending Now

HURRY! There's a new Starbucks tumbler online that you need to see right now!

Here are 5 Disney Loungefly bags that you can get online!

EPCOT just added a new detail and you're not going to want to miss it!

Come along with us to try some dishes at the all-new lounge at the Disneyland...

Disney's newest deal for 2024 might be too good for families to pass up!

Disney's latest crossbody bag will have you swooning!

'Behind the Attraction' is a beloved show on Disney+ and a new season is coming...

We asked YOU to pick the most underrated restaurant in Hollywood Studios and one was...

Flight of Passage continues to have the longest wait times in Disney World. Here's when...

NEW McDonald's Happy Meal Toys have arrived and we're think you're gonna wanna catch 'em...

Traveling to Disney World is about to get even EASIER for a lucky few of...

No joke -- these shirts will make your next Disney World trip 100x happier. Shop...

We're sharing the smartest ways to help you through your day at Disney World

A new tavern is coming to Magic Kingdom.

There's a NEW ticket discount coming soon to Disneyland Resort!

Think you're ready for a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal...

Things are CHANGING in EPCOT -- and we've got the details on how your festival...

We found some adorable Disney ornaments online!

Remember the viral Mickey pumpkin? Well, it's back online RIGHT NOW.

The one ride our readers wish would disappear from Disney World.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

One Reply to “The Only RIGHT Way To See Fantasmic! in Disney’s Hollywood Studios”

The fantasmic package is also available for breakfast at Hollywood and vine. Might Work out for those who like to do early entry, head back to hotel midday, and return in evening. I agree this is a relaxing option.

Follow us on Social!

Shop the Disney Store | AllEars® Merchandise | Shop Amazon | Press Room | Contact Us

Read more About us or Advertise with us . We respect your right to privacy. Please take a moment to review our privacy policy and terms of use .

Copyright ©1996-2023 AllEarsNet, LLC, All Rights Reserved. AllEars.Net, AllEars® Newsletter and any other properties owned by AllEarsNet, LLC are not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with, The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. All Disney artwork, copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and trade names are proprietary to Disney Enterprises, Inc. or, its subsidiary, affiliated and related companies. For official Disney information, visit http://www.disneyworld.com

First look: ‘Fantasmic’ is back at Disney’s…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Daily e-Edition

Evening e-Edition

• Entertainment
• Restaurants, Food & Drink

Things To Do Travel

First look: ‘fantasmic’ is back at disney’s hollywood studios.

Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel

Mickey Mouse appears on top of the mountain during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Flames dance near Mickey Mouse during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Lasers and smoke illuminate Mickey Mouse during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey Mouse fires his sword during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A scene from the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey Mouse fires his fan-favorite hand sparklers during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fireworks and lasers illuminate Mickey Mouse during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A scene from 'Moana' during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A scene from 'Beauty & The Beast' during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fireworks and flames during the finale on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A scene from 'Snow White' during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A scene from 'Frozen' during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey Mouse directs fireworks during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Firework sand lasers surround Mickey Mouse during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey Mouse, as Steamboat Willie, captains the ship in the finale during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Joe Burbank

A panoramic view of the Hollywood Hill Amphitheater during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey Mouse fires his fan-favorite hand sparklers during the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and had been on hiatus since 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fireworks surround Mickey Mouse during a performance on the first night of 'Fantasmic' returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios, Thursday, November 3, 2022. The elaborate pyrotechnics, lasers, fountains and water-screen spectacle showcases Disney characters and has been updated with new scenes including from Moana, Aladdin, and Frozen. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Thousands of Disney fans were feeling “Fantasmic” Thursday evening as the long-dormant nighttime spectacular returned to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park.

What they saw: A new scene with fresh characters on stage, incorporated into the production.

interactive_content

What they reacted to: The stable of characters, especially Mickey Mouse and his related special effects, including the trademark fiery fingertips.

The show, set in an amphitheater facing a moat and a mountain that act as stages, had been dark since Walt Disney World’s pandemic-prompted shutdown in March 2020. After four months down, the company said to expect a “phased” return of live entertainment and other resort operations.

Ahead of “Fantasmic” in the pecking order have been shows such as “Festival of the Lion King” and a retooled “Finding Nemo” effort at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage” at Hollywood Studios and the Festival of Fantasy parade at Magic Kingdom.

The return of “Fantasmic” had been teased for about a year. Its first debut at Disney World was in 1998.

For the first performance of its revival on Thursday, some enthusiasts lined up for several hours. The queue, as wide as a car lane, stretched from the “Fantasmic” entrance, down the park’s Sunset Boulevard and around the corner, nearly reaching Hollywood Studios’ entrance.

Once inside the amphitheater, which has a capacity of about 10,000 people, audience members cheered on Mickey and company robustly, landing somewhere between primal scream and extreme joy during the 30-minute show.

What’s old

First of all, the story revolving around Mickey’s vivid imagination is intact, but popular visuals are in place too. Fans got to see Mickey Mouse’s hands do a pyrotechnic trick, the steamboat populated by dozens of choreographed characters, and the threatening moves of Maleficient in the form of a 40-foot dragon.

And there’s still the danger of getting damp (or misty) from the watery effects.

What’s new

Disney created an additional “heroes” scene, which is seen fairly early in the production. It starts with Pocahontas, who was part of the previous “Fantasmic” showings, followed by active musical moments with Aladdin scaling the mountain and swinging dramatically from the side (during “One Jump Ahead”), Mulan in action (“I’ll Make a Man Out of You”), Moana splashing on the water surface and running amid fountain for “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors),” and Elsa conjuring up magic at center stage with “Show Yourself” from “Frozen 2.”

What’s new, too

Imagineers used the two-year-plus gap between stagings of “Fantasmic” to install technical improvements and effects, particularly among the lighting, lasers and the projections upon water screens.

“It was extremely exciting to take advantage of technological enhancements that didn’t originally exist when the show opened in 1998,” said Katrina Mena Rick, broadcast creative producer with Disney Live Entertainment.

“It’s going to make it feel brand-new to everyone,” said show director Matthew Hamel.

What’s next

Despite the opening-night clamor, this is not a limited-time run for “Fantasmic.” It is scheduled at least once nightly, sometimes at 8 p.m., sometimes at 9 p.m. There will be two run-throughs (8 and 9:30 p.m.) through Monday.

Disney also offers a Fantasmic Dining Package that works at five Hollywood Studios restaurants and includes VIP seating for the show, beginning Nov. 30. Price varies between $49 and $73, depending on eating location. For details, go to disneyworld.com

Email me at [email protected] . Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters or the Theme Park Rangers podcast at orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/theme-park-rangers-podcast .

More in Travel

Explore Florida and the Caribbean: Read the May 2023 issue online

Entertainment | Disney to offer half-price dining, theme-park tickets for children

SUBSCRIBER ONLY

Travel | central florida explorer: my first visit to crealdé school of art.

Things To Do | Theme Park Rangers Radar: Nature at science center, Dinosaur at Disney World

Complete guide to cavalcades and characters at Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios hasn’t had a regular parade in many years. But, we are happy to say a mini-version of parades (in the style of cavalcades) are now a thing at Disney World!

These dashes of character magic are fantastic and a great way for guests to see their favorites.

Plus, there are character meet and greets and the chance to wave to your favorite Disney pals from a distance.

Here’s everything you need to know:

In this article

Looking for info on the other parks?

Check out our other posts for character information across Walt Disney World:

• Cavalcades and Characters in Epcot
• Cavalcades and Characters in Magic Kingdom
• Cavalcades and Characters in Animal Kingdom

What is a Cavalcade?

Cavalcades are basically like a parade, but a much smaller and shorter version. You can find them along Hollywood Boulevard at Hollywood Studios.

While we love parades, we also enjoy cavalcades — a lot!

Not only do they allow you to see characters quickly and multiple times a day, but you also don’t have to camp out for hours for a good seat (or in that hot Orlando summer sun), unlike a parade.

Cavalcades really are a lot of fun and provide opportunities to wave to characters without feeling tied down to a parade schedule.

You can even easily catch one as you’re on your way to hop in line for an attraction or grab a bite to eat.

Cavalcades Are Magical

Cavalcades really do feel more magical. Why? Allow us to explain.

• Cavalcades are smaller, providing a more intimate experience. You won’t be stuck in the 2nd or 3 row of a crowd – you’ll be front row with lots of opportunities to wave – and for the characters to wave back.
• They are quick – no standing in the hot sun for an hour. You get a dash of magic and then you move along to your next adventure of the day.
• Cavalcades bring these magical character sightings into parts of parks we haven’t seen before like seeing Buzz Lightyear sitting in a car waving to guests.

How Do You Know One Is Coming?

Just like with a parade, music is your cue (at least for most of the cavalcades).

Before you’ll be able to see a cavalcade you’ll likely be able to hear it.

You can also check the My Disney Experience app for cavalcade schedules. They usually run about every 15 minutes or so.

Cavalcades & Other Character Interactions

Hollywood studios cavalcades.

Hollywood Studios used to have a total of 3 motorcades (like a mini-parade), but those have since ended.

Reminiscent of the old “Stars and Motor Cars” parade, Hollywood Studios used adorable automobiles for their caval, err, we mean, motorcades. 

This motorcade happened throughout the day, but start and end times varied. You were able to check the My Disney Experience app for the latest schedule.

Here are the former motorocades that were once available at Hollywood Studios.

Hollywood Studios Motorcades No Longer Running

Pixar pals motorcade.

Characters:  Green Army Men (drum corps) walking, Woody & Jessie walking, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible walking, Sulley walking, Buzz in a themed car, Edna Mode in a themed car Where : From the front of the park down Hollywood Boulevard

Disney Junior Motorcade

Mickey And Friends Motorcade

Characters:  Mickey and Minnie in separate cars, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale walking, and sometimes Goofy Where : From the front of the park down Hollywood Boulevard

Traditional Meet & Greets

You can hug the following characters, take photos, and have them sign autographs (unless otherwise noted).

Minnie Starring In Red Carpet Dreams

Characters:  Minnie (PhotoPass available) Where : Commissary Lane across from Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Sorcerer Mickey Starring in Red Carpet Dreams

Characters : Mickey (PhotoPass available) Where : Commissary Lane across from Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant

Disney Junior Pals In The Animation Courtyard

Characters:  Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, Fancy Nancy (PhotoPass available) Where : In the Animation Courtyard

Disney Junior Come & Meet Pluto

Characters:  Pluto (PhotoPass available) Where : In the Animation Courtyard

Celebrity Spotlight (Available with Genie+)

Characters : Olaf (no autograph; automated PhotoPass available) Where : In Echo Lake around the corner from Vacation Fun

Star Wars Launch Bay

Characters : BB-8, Chewbacca, Darth Vader (no autograph; automated PhotoPass for Chewbacca and Darth Vader) Where : Inside Star Wars Launch Bay in Animation Courtyard

Disney Visa Cardmember Character Photo Opportunity

Characters : Darth Vader (PhotoPass available) Where : Star Wars Launch Bay in Animation Courtyard

Toy Story Characters

Characters : Woody and Jessie meet next to Toy Story Mania and Buzz can either be found near Slinky Dog Dash or the Toy Story Land entrance sign (PhotoPass available for all; Buzz “signs” autographs with a stamp) Where : Toy Story Land

Vacation Goofy

Characters : Goofy wearing his vacation shirt (PhotoPass available) Where : Grand Avenue (near entrance to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge or at the Grand Lofts underneath an awning)

Characters : Max Goof (PhotoPass available) Where : In Echo Lake (across from Hollywood & Vine and near Dockside Diner)

Chip ‘n’ Dale

Characters : Chip and Dale Where : In grassy area next to The Hollywood Brown Derby

Characters : Donald (PhotoPass available) Where : In Echo Lake (near Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!)

The Edna Mode Experience

Character : Edna Mode (PhotoPass available) Where : Pixar Place

Pixar Place

Characters : Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, Frozone, and Sulley (PhotoPass available; Sulley doesn’t sign autographs) Where : Pixar Place

Other Character Opportunities & “Sightings”

Even with character meet and greets back to normal, there are still some character “sightings” for guests to enjoy.

You can actually have 1-on-1 time with select characters — but at a distance. This typically means no hugging or autographs.

Most of these experiences don’t have PhotoPass photographers, so you’ll need to take photos/selfies with your own camera and/or mobile device.

You can check appearance times for in the My Disney Experience app.

Star Wars Favorites

Characters:  Mandalorian and Grogu, Chewbacca, Rey, Stormtroopers, Kylo Ren, Vi Moradi Where : elevated stages near ships, in other secured/fenced/blocked off areas around Batuu, and walking around the land

Characters:  Daisy Where:  In the grassy area near Hollywood Brown Derby or along Hollywood Boulevard

Live Entertainment

There are several opportunities to see characters and enjoy a show all at the time time. You can always check the My Disney Experience app for the daily live entertainment schedule.

Green Army Drum Corps

Characters : Green Army Men drum and interact with guests during short performances throughout the day Where : Toy Story Land (between Alien Swirling Saucers and the restrooms)

Characters : Mickey, Minnie, Disney Princesses, Pinocchio, Pocahontas, and more Where : Fantasmic! theater at the end of Sunset Boulevard

For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration

Characters : Anna, Elsa, Kristoff (Olaf will make a limited-time appearance during the holidays) Where : Hyperion Theater in Echo Lake

Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage

Characters : Belle, Beast, Gaston, Mrs. Potts, Chip, Lumiere, Cogsworth Where : Theater of the Stars on Sunset Boulevard

Hollywood Studios Character Dining

Hollywood Studios is currently home to a couple of the character meals you can find on property right now – Disney Junior Play n’ Dine and Minnie’s Seasonal Dine , both at Hollywood and Vine.

These popular meals are offered with buffet service. Disney Junior Play n’ Dine is available for breakfast only, while Minnie’s Seasonal Dine is offered at both lunch and dinner.

This character dining experience also offers traditional character meet and greets.

The seasonal theme meal schedule for Minnie’s Seasonal Dine is usually as follows:

• Halloween Dine : the characters dress in Halloween costumes (part of August through part of November)
• Minnie’s Holiday Dine : the characters don their holiday best (part of November through part of January)
• Silver Screen Dine : the characters embrace the glitz and glamour of Hollywood (part of January through February)
• Springtime Dine : the characters channel their best spring looks (March through part of May)
• Summertime Dine : the characters throw a beach party celebrating summer (part of May through part of August)

Seasonal Holiday Motorcades

During the holiday season, you can expect to see some Christmas spirit added to the existing character motorcades.

You’ll see a very special guest cruising around in his special themed motorcar… Santa Claus (usually through December 24).

Hollywood Studios Character Checklist

Save to your phone!

The following products and services give us a commission on sales.

• 📚 Want to learn more?
• ✈️ Ready to book a trip?
• 🚘 Need a car, stroller, or wheelchair?
• 🛍 Want to shop?

Get our free Quick Start Guide

Have our guide delivered right to your inbox with our 6-step Disney World planning process to make it less overwhelming. Snag our free guide ➡️

Take our course

Check out our course that will help you learn all about Walt Disney World planning with dozens of videos and downloadables for each step along the way.  Get access now ➡️

Our recommend travel agency

We partner with Small World Vacations, Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacations Planners in business since 1996.  Get a quote now ➡️

Want to stay deluxe on a moderate budget?

It’s 1 of our top fave ways to save! By renting DVC points, you can stay in deluxe accommodations for a fraction of the price.  Check availability ➡️

Private car service

Quicksilver Tours will transport you in style. They assist with luggage at the airport, provide car seats, and include a free grocery stop.  Book your car ➡️

Need a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter?

Buena Vista Scooters is a company with a great reputation who offers in-person resort drop off and pick up of strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs.  Book your rental ➡️

Amazon recommendations

Check out our Amazon shop with trip essentials we love.  Start shopping ➡️

WDW Prep merch

Get WDW Prep merch to show off your Disney knowledge (especially fun for spotting others during your trip!).  Check out the WDW Prep merch shop ➡️

• Recent Posts

• We stayed in an All-Star Music Family Suite: here’s our review - September 28, 2023
• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill review: is lunch and dinner worth it? - September 27, 2023
• Be Our Guest review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023

• Disney Cruise Line
• Disney Genie
• Disney History
• Dining Reviews
• Refurbishments
• Resort Guides
• Resort Reviews

• Disney News
• Disney Planning Tips
• Disney World
• Hollywood Studios

Now there’s a way to watch Disney’s Fantasmic! after the park closes

Since returning, Disney’s Fantasmic! has been wildly popular. Now, there’s a way to see it without huge crowds

Guests visiting Disneyland have enjoyed Fantasmic! since May 28th. East Coast  Disney fans packed  Disney’s Hollywood Studios on November 3rd for the grand return of Fantasmic!. Guests on both coasts love this show. 

With the grand return of Fantasmic!, Disney shared that  “a new show sequence featuring Disney characters – Mulan, Elsa, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and Moana – in heroic moments, as well as new technical enhancements.”  You can check out images from these new scenes  HERE. These new scenes are one of my (Susan) favorite things about Fantasmic!

Many guests choose to skip the queue line for this show to enjoy special seating with  Fantasmic! Dining Packages.  Check out the full review of Maggie’s experience  HERE .

How to Watch With Less Waiting

Due to the overwhelming popularity of Fantasmic!, guests can face long waits to get into the theater. Guests waited for hours when it first returned. However, when two shows offered, you’ll find less crowds during the second showing.

When Fantasmic! has two shows, you’ll find less crowds during the second one.

An additional perk of seeing Fantasmic! after Hollywood Studios closes is exiting at the front of the park . Disney has guests come out at the theater near Crossroads of the World statue instead of Sunset Boulevard. I was so happy when this happened to us!

New Showtimes

Recently we announced that Fantasmic! added a second show now through January 7, 2023 HERE. However, Disney extended having 2 shows an extra week. You can catch Fantasmic! at 8:00pm and 9:30pm now through January 14! Another great perk of going to the 9:30pm show is it doesn’t take away park time since Hollywood Studios closes at 9:00pm.

Fantasmic! offers shows at 8:00pm and 9:30pm now through January 14, 2023.

What do you think of this showtime after the park has closed? Would you choose the first or second showtime? Please share your thoughts with us on our   Facebook page.

What do you think? Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

EVEN MORE NEWS

More Details revealed for Moana meet and greet

You Won’t Believe Which Princess is Now Appearing at Cinderella’s Royal...

An upcoming power outage posted to warn Disney World Guests

Popular category.

• Disney World 9746
• Disney News 7542
• Disney Planning Tips 1403
• Disney Entertainment 1105
• Magic Kingdom 986
• Disneyland 944

Disney Expanding Fantasmic! Nighttime Show at Hollywood Studios

in Walt Disney World

Disney is expanding Fantasmic!, one of its most popular attractions.

Related: Former Disney Channel Star Demi Lovato Comes Back to TV

When guests visit Walt Disney World, they’re faced with the challenge of deciding what to do. From the dozens of thrilling and iconic attractions to the stunning array of restaurants and quick-service locations, a day at Disney can be chock full of magic. At Magic Kingdom , guests have access to some of the most legendary theme park rides in the world, from Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain to “it’s a small world” and Haunted Mansion.

At EPCOT , Guests are encouraged to become a little more worldly and explore cultures and countries they may not be able to experience in the “real world.” Here, guests can take a stroll from England to China in a matter of minutes. Guests can also experience some of the coolest rides in all of Orlando, Florida, with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind being the newest addition to the park.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a beastly assortment of rides, ranging from thrilling encounters with mythical yetis to time-traveling adventures with dinosaurs. The biggest draw of this park would have to be Pandora – The World of Avatar. This land first opened in 2017 and has been a major hit, transporting guests into the world of James Cameron’s Avatar franchise . 

Related: New Actress Playing Captain Marvel, More Information Comes To Light About Next Project

Last but not least is Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a theme park with the biggest selection of thrill rides at Walt Disney World. Guests can enjoy high-speed roller coasters like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster here or take a dip on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Walt Disney World’s spookiest ride.

However, if you happen to get a little tired of riding rides all day, don’t worry. Guests will find many different ways to spend their time at “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” and at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests have quite a lot of options. Guests can catch one of the incredible stunt show performances at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular or settle down for an amazing retelling of Disney’s iconic Beauty and the Beast (1991).

However, the most popular show at the park has to be Fantasmic!.

Featuring more than 50 live performers, massive sets, stunning effects, dazzling pyrotechnics, and rousing music, this larger-than-life show is painted on a grand canvas of dancing water and light like nothing you’ve ever seen. Fantasmic! is a fantastic way to close out your day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and is something you definitely do not want to miss during your Disney World vacation.

This is why it’s crucial to be aware of the showtimes for Fantasmic!. Disney recently changed the showtimes for this attraction, expanding it to more guests. Disney has added a second showtime of Fantasmic for dates through October 21st. There will now be two showtimes through October 21st instead of just one.

“Overflowing with silly and suspenseful surprises, it will leave your entire family smiling from ear-to-ear,” states Disney .

Fantasmic! is also featured at the original Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, though the show is currently on indefinite hiatus after a shocking accident. Earlier in 2023 , guests were stunned as the Maleficent dragon animatronic caught fire mid-show, melting away in front of their very eyes. Videos of the incident went viral, leaving fans wondering just how severe the damage was.

Unfortunately, this was no small accident with Fantasmic! being canceled indefinitely at Disneyland. Disney revealed that the iconic Maleficent dragon would not be returning, indicating it had been severely and permanently damaged.

Do you enjoy watching Fantasmic!? What’s your favorite theme park at Walt Disney World?

Disney's Hollywood Studios - Fantasmic!

Hollywood Studios Rides and Attractions

Opened: October 15, 1998 Attraction length: 26 minutes

Overview/History:

Fantasmic! takes place in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater located near "The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror" and "Beauty and the Beast-Live On Stage." Watch Sorcerer Mickey battle Disney Villains in this sensational laser and light show.

The amphitheater opens 90 minutes before the show begins. You can bring in outside food or purchase snacks inside. If you want to take advantage of priority seating and skip the usual long wait to get into this show, book the Fantasmic Dining Package . 

There are long rows of metal benches that are banked for easy viewing. The theater is designed after the famous Hollywood Bowl and can accommodate 11,000 guests. While it's tempting to run down to the front, the "water screens" used in a lot of the sequences often produces a light mist that could head right in your direction.

Fantasmic! originated in Disneyland . While parts of the show are similar, there are differences. (It's rare for those who have seen both to prefer the Disney World version.)

The finale is a lot of fun. An 80-foot replica of the ship from "Steamboat Willie" features 26 Disney characters waving and singing as they go by.

Lightning Lane: Yes

Handicapped Accessibility: Guests may remain in their wheelchairs/ECVs for this attraction.

• Fantasmic!  originally opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on October 15, 1998.
• The show features animation and characters from more than 25 films.
• The moat surrounding the  Fantasmic!  island stage contains 1.9 million gallons of water.
• Maleficent, in dragon form, is the final villain that Mickey Mouse battles, and she stands 40-feet tall.
• In addition to Maleficent, 10 other villains appear in the show.
• In the finale, Mickey Mouse and 35 other characters appear on a steamboat inspired by the one seen in “Steamboat Willie,”
• Located off Sunset Boulevard, the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater seats 6,900 guests with additional standing room for about 3,000 guests.

• Disneyland To Live Stream 'Frightfully Fun Parade' on TikTok Oct. 5
• New Disney Book That Will Change How You Look at Main Street, U.S.A.
• Season 2 of 'Behind the Attraction' Coming to Disney Plus Nov. 1
• Disney Dining Review: Breakfast at Rix Sports Bar & Grill at Coronado Springs
• Discounted Kids' Disneyland Park Ticket Offer Coming Soon
• New 50% Off Kids Play & Dine Offer Coming to Walt Disney World in November
• The Best 'First Rides' for Kids in Walt Disney World's EPCOT
• Photo Blog: Tour of the Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT
• REMINDER: Bounce-Back Offer Saves 25-35% on Future Walt Disney World Stays!
• Perseverance Rover Tracks Added to Mission: SPACE Display at EPCOT
• New Halloween Entertainment Arrives in Disney Springs
• Try the New Dessert Fusion, Tres Leches Tiramisu, at Vivoli IL Gelato
• Save Up to 15% on Select Stays at Select Disneyland Resort Hotels This Winter!
• Disney Treasure's Forward Funnel Arrives at Meyer Werft Shipyard
• Get Your Disney Pumpkin Carving Stencils for Halloween 2023
• View More...
• DISboards.com
• Theme Parks
• Dining and Restaurants
• Discounts and Budgeting
• Disney World Resorts
• Disney Cruise Line
• Disney Vacation Club
• Universal Studios Orlando

Pros & Cons of Choosing Port Orleans French Quarter: Is It the Perfect Disney Resort for You?

• New Disney Merch: The Holidays Classics Collection

• Early Booking Offer for Disney World Resorts in 2024 Combinable with Dreams Unlimited Gift Card Promo

DCL Spotlight: Towel Animals in Your Stateroom

• Disney Cruises From Port Everglades - FAQs You Need Answers To!
• Everything You Need To Know About The Disney Treasure

• Mickey & Friends
• Princes & Princesses
• Disney Classics
• Recent Stars
• Stitch & Friends
• 100 Acre Wood
• Disney TV Stars
• Other Disney Characters
• Non-Disney Characters
• All Characters
• Walt Disney World
• Disneyland Paris
• Tokyo Disney Resort
• Hong Kong Disneyland
• Shanghai Disney Resort
• Other Disney Destinations
• Help Support Char Central

Fantasmic! var shared_object = SHARETHIS.addEntry({ title: document.title, url: document.location.href }); shared_object.attachButton(document.getElementById("ck_sharethis")); shared_object.attachChicklet("twitter", document.getElementById("ck_twitter")); Sunset Boulevard , Disney's Hollywood Studios , Walt Disney World

Meeting disney characters.

• Past Characters

Pictures of Fantasmic!

© 2010-2020 Jon Fiedler and Dan Brace

Jon's Flickr Photostream

Dan's Flickr Photostream

All images © Dan Brace and Jon Fiedler

All characters © Walt Disney Co or their respective copyright holders

CharacterCentral.net is not part of The Walt Disney Company. Some parts Copyright © The Walt Disney Co. No part of this site is to be reproduced without permission. This site uses the Flickr API but is not endorsed or certified by Flickr. Our Privacy Policy .

  190   2   107   598   1

Fantasmic! is a nighttime spectacular at Disney Hollywood Studios. It features characters, fireworks, pyrotechnics, projections and more – and it’s one of the top attractions in the park. You can find it in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheatre at the end of Sunset Boulevard, near Tower of Terror and Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage .

This is the most imaginative of the Disney World fireworks show. It’s based on some of the vignettes in the Disney animated classic, Fantasia . Mickey Mouse is the star of this show and he directs a symphony of music, lights, characters, water and especially fireworks. Along the way, lots of his friends (and enemies!) stop by.

The Theater

Fantasmic! is shown in the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater which is located on Sunset Boulevard. The theater seats around 7,500 with additional standing room only of 2,000 or so. The line starts forming more than an hour before the scheduled show.

Inside the theater, the best seats (front right and center) are reserved for those guests that have a dinner package. You can also opt for a dessert package in order to get guaranteed seating, or book the show through FastPass+.

If you’re planning to stand by for this show and hope to get in, opt for the later show on nights with two shows, and arrive at least 90 mins before show time to queue up.

See what happens when you don’t get in line early enough.

Dad’s disney hollywood studios page.

The Preshow

There isn’t any preshow here, apart from a little music. Sometimes the crowd will do things like the Wave or other crowd games. It can be fun just to watch the people filter in and fight for seats. You can also consider heading to the top of the amphitheatre to get a snack or a glowing souvenir while you wait – but make sure someone in your party stays to hold the seats!

Dinner and Dessert Packages

Reserved seating is available to those guests that reserve the Dinner Package. To reserve a Dinner Package you choose from one of three restaurants –

• Hollywood Brown Derby
• Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
• Hollywood and Vine

After you eat (and pay) at the restaurant you will be issued pass to get in at the special Dinner Package gate. (You need to arrive 30 minutes prior to show time.)

All the information about the package and pricing can be found here . Or, if you prefer there is a dessrt party option with reserved seats – details are here .

Is the reserved seating worth it? Mmmm? You get to sit in prime seats. You get a reserved seat without waiting an hour in line. So Dad’s answer is, if you are can get a Fantasmic! dinner package or dessert package, do it! (And if you can’t, try to get a FastPass+ for the show.)

A question about the Dinner Package and the Disney Dining Plan

Here is the show in a nutshell:

The narrator talks, the lights dim, Mickey comes out and starts a water fountain symphony. A bunch of Disney movies and characters are shown on water screens.

The lights go out, a canon fires and a battle ensues between Governor John Ratcliffe and his men and Native American. John Smith climbs up the mountain and Pocahontas appears. The water reappears and dancing scenes from several movies are shown.

The music turns dark and the villains from almost all of the classic Disney movies arrive. Maleficent turns into a 40 foot tall fire-breathing dragon and sets the water ablaze. Mickey pulls out the sword from the stone and slays the dragon.

Fireworks begin popping all around. Favorite characters show up in a big steamboat. Some more explosions happen. Mickey keeps disappearing and reappearing in a cloud of smoke and light. The lights come up and the show is over.

Some imagination, huh? I promise, it sounds crazy but it’s a great show.

Glow with the Show

In 2013 Disney introduced “Glow with the Show” products. It’s a way that guests can interact with the nighttime shows in the parks. Guest can now purchase special Glow with the Show” hats, wands, and more that blink different colors in tune with the music and themes of the show.

Video from the show

Here’s some video from the show withg the Glow With the Show Mickey Ears.

Here are some interesting tidbits –

• It’s estimated that each show costs $30,000.00.
• The water screens pump 2,400 gallons of water a minute into the air. A total of over 1 million gallons per show.

Fantasmic! made the long trek from Disneyland to Walt Disney World in October of 1998. The original show in Disneyland started in 1992, and in 2011 it was added to Tokyo DisneySea.

Fantasmic! has a lot of fans. Many Disney Hollywood Studios guests think it’s the best of the 3 firework presentations. The drawbacks are, it’s shown in a small area (compared to Wishes, and Illuminations), and even though it’s shown every night the lines are pretty long and if you don’t get in line early you might not get in.

Even with all the drawbacks it’s a not to be missed show.

“Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy.” – Walt Disney

Policies      |       Contact Us      |     Our Family

What to Expect at Moonlight Magic Parties 2023

By: Author tanialamb

Posted on Published: May 11, 2023

Moonlight Magic is back for 2023 and the first DVC party at Walt Disney World this year was at Epcot on February 8, 2023. There were a lot of fun additions like food coupons, different character meet and greets, and entertainment. However, there were also some hiccups. If you’re attending a party this year, these Moonlight Magic party tips and details will help you have a magical time.

Moonlight Magic Tips 2023: What You Need to Know

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about Moonlight Magic like what attractions are open, where can you eat, and what characters can you find? Well first of all can you attend a Moonlight Magic Event?

Moonlight Magic events are free for Disney Vacation Members and their guests. You can bring up to 4 additional guests with you, but you must register for Moonlight Magic first. You can’t just show up to the party. 

These Moonlight Magic Events are after hours parties and include complimentary food and drink as well as access to the parks and rides with minimal waits, plus special character meet and greets and fireworks!

What are the Hours for Moonlight Magic?

Moonlight Magic party hours are 10 PM – 1 AM. However, you can enter the park as early as 7 PM without a park ticket. Also, you do not need a park reservation to attend Moonlight Magic. 

You’ll see event signs at the entrance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios to check-in and to receive your wristbands and snack certificates.

They’ll even be showing a special Fantasmic! at 11 pm during Moonlight Magic at Hollywood Studios.

Food and Beverage Options at Moonlight Magic

When you check in, you and your guests will receive snack certificates at Hollywood Studios. Prior to the event, you can use them at more locations like Backlot Express, ABC Commissary, Catalina Eddie’s, and Docking Bay 7. I suggest using them prior to the event, because at EPCOT, lines got long and food ran out. 

They are not really meant to be meals, but more snack-like options. At  Hollywood Studios from 7 PM – 1 AM, you can redeem your Moonlight Magic coupons at:

• Kat Saka’s Kettle
• Woody’s Lunch Box
• Anaheim Produce
• Rosie’s All-American Cafe
• Hollywood Scoops
• Hollywood Hills Amphitheater Refreshments
• Various Snack Carts

During the Epcot Moonlight Magic, each guest received 3 snack certificates. You were able to redeem them at participating food & beverage locations for items with the dining plan symbol on them. They are meant to be snacks and not meals. You could use them beginning at 6:30 p.m. and they are even valid at some of the Festival of the Arts Food Studios. 

You can use Moonlight Magic snack certificates at these Festival Food Studios until 9 PM:

• The Deconstructed Dish
• Deco Delights
• Refreshment Port
• Gourmet Landscapes
• Vibrante & Vivido: Encanto Cocina
• Tangierine Cafe: Flavors of the Medina
• The Artist’s Table
• Pastoral Palate
• Refreshment Outpost
• The Craftsman’s Courtyard
• Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey 

You can use the snack certificates at Connections Eatery and Sunshine Seasons until 10:00 p.m. Some of the items available at Connections Eatery are french fries, sides, fountain beverages, and milkshakes. At Sunshine Seasons they had chips, beverages, a few desserts, cheese and fruit plate, and some pastries. 

You can use the snack certificates until 1:00 a.m. at various snack carts with pretzels and popcorn, Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, and the Norway Beverage Cart.

You also receive complimentary ice cream at various carts like Mickey Bars, Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches, and Popsicles. You don’t need to use a certificate for these.

Tip: If you arrive early, use your certificates at the food booths if you want real food. Once 10 pm hits and there are only a few options open, the snack lines get super long. Some food would run out, especially at the pretzel stands (I only saw two open). At 12:45 a.m., people were trying to use the last of their certificates and the line for the pretzel cart by Cosmic Rewind and Test Track wrapped around past Club Cool. 

What Attractions are Open at Moonlight Magic 2023?

One of the best benefits of Moonlight Magic is being able to ride attractions with low wait times. Lines were pretty short, with Cosmic Rewind averaging about 20 minutes.

At Epcot, these attractions are open during Moonlight Magic:

• Spaceship Earth
• Journey into Imagination With Figment
• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
• Mission: SPACE
• Soarin’ Around the World
• Living with the Land
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
• Frozen Ever After
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
• Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along

The Seas with Nemo and Friends was also listed, but it was not open during the event.

Character Experiences at Moonlight Magic

Special characters will be out from 10 PM – 12:30 AM at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Moonlight Magic. Characters will be near Star Tours, Commissary Lane, Toy Story Land, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. If there’s a character you really want to see, I suggest going earlier rather than later. Lines get long.

At EPCOT’s party, you could find some of your favorite Disney Characters in Imagination! in World Celebration and in World Showcase in Canada, United Kingdom, France, Norway, and Mexico. 

At the Moonlight Magic on February 8th in Epcot these were the characters I saw:

• Miguel from Coco in Mexico
• Duffy towards the entrance to World Showcase
• Koda from Brother Bear in Canada
• Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in United Kingdom
• Kristoff in Norway
• Remy in France

Character lines were pretty long, so make sure you make some time for them if you really want to meet them and take photos. I waited about 20 minutes for Miguel. 

Characters are subject to change.

Is Moonlight Magic Worth It?

Is Moonlight Magic worth the trip and your time? Disney time is precious, and if you’re already in the area, then I think it’s definitely worth it! After all, it’s a free event and one of your Disney Vacation Club membership. I love that they offer these kinds of experiences for DVC members, because sometimes it does feel like benefits are dwindling.

The crowds are manageable, you can ride a lot of your favorites with short wait times, and the fireworks were very impressive! It’s a fun environment, and plus free ice cream.

There’s not enough time to do everything, so make sure you make a list of your must-dos. Come early and eat some snacks ahead of time with your certificates. We came at 8:30, and I wished we would have shown up an hour earlier. Then we could have used all our party time meeting characters and riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind over and over.

Would I make a special trip revolved around Moonlight Magic? Probably not. Just think of it as extra magic. 

Have fun and Welcome Home!

For more Disney tips, find inexpensive park souvenirs at the Character Warehouse outlets , try these best fanny packs for Disney World or read about whether Tron Lightcycle Run is kid friendly !

Fantasmic! Dining Packages

• Dining Events

Valid Admission and Theme Park Reservation for Same Park on Same Date Required

An Important Message 

To dine at an in-park table-service restaurant, you need a confirmed dining reservation for the total number of Guests—regardless of age, plus a  theme park reservation  and valid admission for the same park on that same date for each Guest ages 3 and up. Dining reservations do not guarantee access to a park, and Park Hopper availability may change daily. We recommend Guests book in-park dining at the park where they have a Disney Park Pass reservation.

Feast, Then Fantasmic!

Reserve your VIP spot at this dazzling nighttime spectacular, along with a delightful dining package.

Do you prefer the casual ambiance of Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano , the bustling lunch scene at Hollywood & Vine or the fine dining vibe of The Hollywood Brown Derby ? Whichever you choose, you’ll be sure to savor a mouthwatering meal before the stunning musical extravaganza known as Fantasmic! takes you away with its imagination-bending symphony of lights, lasers, fireworks, music & water animation!

Dining Packages and Prices

Here’s what’s included in each Fantasmic! Dining Package:

• An entrée and appetizer or dessert at select full-service restaurants or one (1) full buffet (where applicable), along with a non-alcoholic beverage
• One voucher for guaranteed seating at Fantasmic! in a reserved area

Explore participating restaurants and dining package prices, which exclude tax and gratuity:

All listed package prices do not include alcohol or required park admission. Alcohol will only be served to Guests 21 and older.

Make Reservations

Know before you go.

Learn important information about scheduling, check-in and more.

Scheduling The Fantasmic! Dining Package is available on all Fantasmic! show days. Please note that your dining experience will still take place, even if your entertainment experience is cancelled.

Check-In The entrance to your reserved seating is located on Sunset Boulevard next to Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage . Seating will begin 90 minutes prior to the Fantasmic! show and fireworks. Please arrive at least 25 minutes before showtime to be seated in the reserved section.

Reserved Seating You can pick up your seating voucher for Fantasmic! at the time of your meal. Please note that your seats are not assigned; you will choose them from within the reserved section on a first-come, first-served basis.

Park Admission Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is not included in the price of the dining package. Both a valid theme park ticket and a theme park reservation are required to enjoy this offering.

Subject to Change All attractions, entertainment and experiences are subject to change without notice.

Make a Reservation