Fantasmic Question

[Dawn16]

So, we're WDW vets who will be at DLR 12/3-12/7. I've been twice previously and haven't seen Fantasmic so it's a priority. It's showing twice nightly on Friday 12/5 and Saturday 12/6. I assume Friday is a better choice especially with the Candlelight Processional going on Saturday and the expected crowds that will bring. So, on Friday are we realistically going to be able to see Fantasmic without lining up 1-2 hours ahead of time? I've searched past threads but none were specific to this early December time frame so I'm not sure what to expect. I am aware of the premium seating/dessert deal but don't want to spend that kind of $ if its not really necessary. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Disney Dreams]

It depends on what experience you are looking for. People camp out for HOURS to get a "good" seat for Fantasmic! I usually arrive 20 minutes before the show starts, find a spot in the back of the roped off areas, and watch through 2 rows of people.

If you want a seat in the front with no one blocking your view, etc...., yes, you need to camp out. If you just want to see and experience it, no, you don't need to camp out.

Now, that said.... here's a viewing tip:

See the second show.
Why? Well, people can't camp out for as long because the first show is there. So, be in the area when the first show ends. Stay out of the way and let the entire crowd clear. Then move in and claim your front row spot of ground for the second show.

- Dreams

 

[Dawn16]

Thanks very much for the advice. I had a feeling the second show would be the better choice so I think we'll go with that. I also hoped that in early December it wouldn't be the mad house that it sounds like it is in the summer. Although I'm guessing it will still be farily busy.

It depends on what experience you are looking for. People camp out for HOURS to get a "good" seat for Fantasmic! I usually arrive 20 minutes before the show starts, find a spot in the back of the roped off areas, and watch through 2 rows of people.

If you want a seat in the front with no one blocking your view, etc...., yes, you need to camp out. If you just want to see and experience it, no, you don't need to camp out.

Now, that said.... here's a viewing tip:

See the second show.
Why? Well, people can't camp out for as long because the first show is there. So, be in the area when the first show ends. Stay out of the way and let the entire crowd clear. Then move in and claim your front row spot of ground for the second show.

- Dreams

 

[Leofoenget]

oh it will be a madhouse, it's a Friday. Do this: Hang out in NOS and as soon as the first show ends quickly make your way up to the front and save your seat. What we have done is, get food and sit and eat while waiting for the next show.

 

[Fantasmiss]

I'm not sure if Disneyland is different, but in Disney World they have to set up the fireworks etc. so ALL guests without exeptions (including disabled people and everyone else) have to leave the Fantasmic area between the two shows. I know that from experience, unless they've changed the rules since this May and I very much doubt it. You'll have to go back out and queue up, then they'll let all guests in at the same time when they're ready for the 2nd show.

It depends on what experience you are looking for. People camp out for HOURS to get a "good" seat for Fantasmic! I usually arrive 20 minutes before the show starts, find a spot in the back of the roped off areas, and watch through 2 rows of people.

If you want a seat in the front with no one blocking your view, etc...., yes, you need to camp out. If you just want to see and experience it, no, you don't need to camp out.

Now, that said.... here's a viewing tip:

See the second show.
Why? Well, people can't camp out for as long because the first show is there. So, be in the area when the first show ends. Stay out of the way and let the entire crowd clear. Then move in and claim your front row spot of ground for the second show.

- Dreams

 

[Disney Dreams]

I'm not sure if Disneyland is different, but in Disney World they have to set up the fireworks etc. so ALL guests without exeptions (including disabled people and everyone else) have to leave the Fantasmic area between the two shows. I know that from experience, unless they've changed the rules since this May and I very much doubt it. You'll have to go back out and queue up, then they'll let all guests in at the same time when they're ready for the 2nd show.

Not true at Disneyland.

 

[SueM in MN]

Not true at Disneyland.

WDW's Fantasmic is in an amphitheater, so it's an actual location that is closed except for during the show. The amphitheater has bench seats and holds thousands of people. Like other shows, when your show is over, you exit so guests for the next show can come into the amphitheater.

From what I understand about DL's Fantasmic, it's more of a general area that the show can be seen from and you have to stake out a spot (sort of similar to getting spots for a parade).

 

[jernysgirl]

WDW's Fantasmic is in an amphitheater, so it's an actual location that is closed except for during the show. The amphitheater has bench seats and holds thousands of people. Like other shows, when your show is over, you exit so guests for the next show can come into the amphitheater.

From what I understand about DL's Fantasmic, it's more of a general area that the show can be seen from and you have to stake out a spot (sort of similar to getting spots for a parade).

That is true. During the day it is a wide open area in NOS that you can walk right through. The cast members stay in their positions between shows and we actually got a chance to chat up some very nice CMs between the shows. One even played with my kids for awhile.

I second (or third) the idea of watching the second show. You'll have much better luck getting seats. My recommendation (and a tip I learned here on the DIS) is to head to Critter Country. Maybe ride Spalsh and Pooh. When the first show is ending, (which I am sure that you will hear or see with the Mark Twain floating on by) make your way to NOS. Stay towards the river and you should be able to slip right in and get a front row seat. If you are in NOS, you may risk getting caught up in one way crowds that are very thick and near impossible to get through for a few minutes.

From the time the first ends to the beginning of the second is something like 45 minutes I think. Maybe bring an extra sweater or blanket to sit on since the ground will be cold. There are no seats or anything, you just sit on the cobblestone. Maybe send someone else in your party to grab a snack or warm drink somewhere close. That will keep you busy while waiting.

Have fun. Fantasmic! is my fav thing at the park. The music makes me cry every time!