How long in advance to get a spot for fireworks at MK?

[friedela]

Within that fenced in area near Casey's, is there anything kids could stand on to bring them up to adult height? Ledges, etc.? Trying to find the best way to let my kids see the projections without us having to hold them.

Thats a good question!

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Within that fenced in area near Casey's, is there anything kids could stand on to bring them up to adult height? Ledges, etc.? Trying to find the best way to let my kids see the projections without us having to hold them.

Pic is technically of the Plaza Garden East, but Plaza Garden West (in front of Casey's) is the same thing. Places to stand to get taller? Eh, not really. I have sometimes held my kids (not on shoulders, just close/shoulder height), although that can get a bit annoying for an 18 minute show.

I like the back rail because I can hold a kiddo and not necessarily be blocking anyone directly behind me, which I try to be sensitive to.

 

[friedela]

Pic is technically of the Plaza Garden East, but Plaza Garden West (in front of Casey's) is the same thing. Places to stand to get taller? Eh, not really. I have sometimes held my kids (not on shoulders, just close/shoulder height), although that can get a bit annoying for an 18 minute show.

I like the back rail because I can hold a kiddo and not necessarily be blocking anyone directly behind me, which I try to be sensitive to.

View attachment 299514

Crazy, and no one goes there hey? Or is it just less crowded but still quite a few people?

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Crazy, and no one goes there hey? Or is it just less crowded but still quite a few people?

Both Plaza Gardens (East and West) used to be reserved FP fireworks viewing areas, for a relatively brief time.

They did away with that at some point and they were then open to anyone. The East Garden is now used for the Plaza Garden Fireworks Dessert Party. The West side is open (most nights). Since the area is relatively fenced all around, it "feels" like it should be a reserved area and I think some people legitimately think it is, so just keep walking.

But over time this secret is out, so it's not quite as good a spot as it once was.

 

[DisneyChris2016]

Pic is technically of the Plaza Garden East, but Plaza Garden West (in front of Casey's) is the same thing. Places to stand to get taller? Eh, not really. I have sometimes held my kids (not on shoulders, just close/shoulder height), although that can get a bit annoying for an 18 minute show.

I like the back rail because I can hold a kiddo and not necessarily be blocking anyone directly behind me, which I try to be sensitive to.

View attachment 299514

Thanks for that pic - that's really helpful! We've always held our kids, too, (on our hips or backs) but with my youngest being almost 8, that is becoming impractical (for me at least... DH can still handle it). I like the idea of at least having a railing we can stand behind so there won't be anyone IMMEDIATELY in front of them. It always seems like no matter where we go to watch, someone steps in front of us at the last minute... and I don't blame them really. They have to squeeze in just like everyone else. But it's still annoying.

Also, even if this area does get crowded, at least it's a bit separated from the insanity. And if I have to camp out an hour before the show, I would rather do it here where no one is going to step on me or run over me with their stroller. I have a super thin picnic blanket we can spread on the ground and relax before the show starts. I really hope this plays out as well as it seems in my mind.

 

[GADisneyDad14]

Thanks for that pic - that's really helpful! We've always held our kids, too, (on our hips or backs) but with my youngest being almost 8, that is becoming impractical (for me at least... DH can still handle it). I like the idea of at least having a railing we can stand behind so there won't be anyone IMMEDIATELY in front of them. It always seems like no matter where we go to watch, someone steps in front of us at the last minute... and I don't blame them really. They have to squeeze in just like everyone else. But it's still annoying.

Also, even if this area does get crowded, at least it's a bit separated from the insanity. And if I have to camp out an hour before the show, I would rather do it here where no one is going to step on me or run over me with their stroller. I have a super thin picnic blanket we can spread on the ground and relax before the show starts. I really hope this plays out as well as it seems in my mind.

I don't mean this to sound like I'm a dessert party pusher, but have you looked into it? Certainly not the cheapest thing in the world and it's not a fit for everyone, but we've had great luck with it in terms of still having quality viewing for our kiddos (7 and 3). That garden won't fill in as much as the free/open West Garden, so it gives more room to move around/adjust to last minute "squeezers."

 

[kj2mom]

Thanks for that pic - that's really helpful! We've always held our kids, too, (on our hips or backs) but with my youngest being almost 8, that is becoming impractical (for me at least... DH can still handle it). I like the idea of at least having a railing we can stand behind so there won't be anyone IMMEDIATELY in front of them. It always seems like no matter where we go to watch, someone steps in front of us at the last minute... and I don't blame them really. They have to squeeze in just like everyone else. But it's still annoying.

Also, even if this area does get crowded, at least it's a bit separated from the insanity. And if I have to camp out an hour before the show, I would rather do it here where no one is going to step on me or run over me with their stroller. I have a super thin picnic blanket we can spread on the ground and relax before the show starts. I really hope this plays out as well as it seems in my mind.

I especially loved this area after the show was over. You know that mad rush of craziness that happens as people all head towards the exit at the conclusion of the show? Well because this area is fenced off you are protected a little. We sat back down once the show was over (sat before, stood for show then sat again) and just waited it out without the feeling of being stuck in the masses. It was wonderful!

 

[DisneyChris2016]

I don't mean this to sound like I'm a dessert party pusher, but have you looked into it? Certainly not the cheapest thing in the world and it's not a fit for everyone, but we've had great luck with it in terms of still having quality viewing for our kiddos (7 and 3). That garden won't fill in as much as the free/open West Garden, so it gives more room to move around/adjust to last minute "squeezers."

Thanks - yes, I've looked into it. Sort of. For our family of 5, with 2 of my kids being Disney "adults" it would cost over $270. My DS12 wouldn't eat a thing, and the rest of us might manage a cupcake or two. I know a lot of people love it, but it's not for us. If I have to arrive more than an hour beforehand anyway, we can spend $30 on ice cream sundaes and find a decent spot to camp out until the show. I would like a nice view for my kids, but it's not THAT important.

I really appreciate everyone's different perspectives, though. I'm always amazed at how much more I know now than I did on our first trip, and how much more I learn each time I come on here to plan. Thanks again!

 

[BrianL]

I especially loved this area after the show was over. You know that mad rush of craziness that happens as people all head towards the exit at the conclusion of the show? Well because this area is fenced off you are protected a little. We sat back down once the show was over (sat before, stood for show then sat again) and just waited it out without the feeling of being stuck in the masses. It was wonderful!

Also, if they are running OUAT after, you can just stay in place, and maybe move up a little after the garden empties out a little. IT's really a great spot.

 

[wdw&sonny]

We've always held our kids, too, (on our hips or backs)...

I have sometimes held my kids (not on shoulders, just close/shoulder height), although that can get a bit annoying for an 18 minute show.

It's funny how people on these boards have been conditioned to qualify their responses to avoid getting flamed for the breaches of Dis Board etiquette.