Fireworks View from Compass Rose?

[subtchr]

Hi, All!

I am bringing a large group (high school marching band) to DL/DCA on January 3. Right now we are meeting at the compass rose between the parks at 9:30 pm. That's when the fireworks start at DL - can we see them from where we are meeting? Or should we shift the meeting time 20 minutes later to see them from inside the park?

 

[figment_jii]

The Esplanade is a popular spot to view the fireworks from outside of the parks. You should be able to see the higher fireworks, but you won't see any of the effects on the castle, some of the lower effects, any characters that fly (e.g., Tinkerbell), or the "snow". Also, they do not pipe the music into the Esplanade.

I was close to the monorail beam for this photo, but being further back is probably better (closer to the compass). I've often seen folks sitting out on or near the compass waiting for fireworks to start.

In terms of viewing the fireworks, I like seeing them from inside the parks. If you can move the time back, I would shift it so everyone can see the fireworks from inside the park. The show itself is about 10 minutes long and then they make it snow (select areas in the parks). Guests seem to hang around the viewing areas (where it's snowing) for a bit after that. So depending on where you're watching from, it might be hard to get out of the park in less than 10 minutes.

 

[SMD]

The esplanade gets pretty packed right after the fireworks. A lot of people will leave, and many will park hop for either WOC or PTN if there are second shows. It sort of depends where you're going after you meet. If you want to see the fireworks together, even just getting into town square or the far back park of Main St by 9:20 will get you a better view than the esplanade. Then just stay put until the crowd disperses a little. If you push the meeting time to 9:50 are you ok with people possible being 15-20 minutes late and lots of people crossing the esplanade between and around your group? If you're trying to meet up for a 10:30 show, you're going to have timing issues.

 

[subtchr]

Thanks, very helpful info!

I'm with you, I'd MUCH rather see fireworks inside the park. Especially for the music, which I think is such an integral part to the experience. But with groups I don't always get what I want...LOL

I'll talk with the directors and see what they want to do. At least everyone who wants to should be able to see World of Color at 8:15!

 

[SMD]

Are you meeting up to leave? Harbor side or DTD side? Both will be quite crowded.

 

[subtchr]

Are you meeting up to leave? Harbor side or DTD side? Both will be quite crowded.

We will be headed to charter bus parking, beside Mickey and Friends, so DTD side. I've done it before with marching bands, I know it's crowded, but thanks. We will have them in chaperone groups to make their way as best they can. Welcome to my world. Hah.

The esplanade gets pretty packed right after the fireworks. A lot of people will leave, and many will park hop for either WOC or PTN if there are second shows. It sort of depends where you're going after you meet. If you want to see the fireworks together, even just getting into town square or the far back park of Main St by 9:20 will get you a better view than the esplanade. Then just stay put until the crowd disperses a little. If you push the meeting time to 9:50 are you ok with people possible being 15-20 minutes late and lots of people crossing the esplanade between and around your group? If you're trying to meet up for a 10:30 show, you're going to have timing issues.

Nah, we will be leaving after this (all 300 of us). DCA closing time is 8:00, WOC is 8:15, and PtN is 6:30 and 10:30. We will probably just keep our plan as is and only see the high fireworks before heading to the buses.

Thanks again for your help!