We are going to be in Epcot during the Illuminations. We have seen this before from a standing position. Is there anywhere in the World Showcase that you can eat and watch the display?
The Rose & Crown is the only restaurant you can see Illuminations from. Make a PS at 7:30, arrive early at the podium and request a table on the patio. You may have to wait a little while be hopefully you will get it.
DH and I did this in January 2001 and we had a great table. We had a leisurely dinner and had just been brought our desserts when it was time for the show.