IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party

[hsgeiser]

How is it? We have kids and want a good view of fireworks, maybe a less crowded area... and desserts and wine sounds like a nice way to watch the show. Is it a buffet or do you order from a menu? Must-do or save my money?

 

[ColoradoDis]

I'm interested in this too - we're planning to do it in October. Looks fun.

 

[Robo]

1. How is it?
2. We have kids and want a good view of fireworks, maybe a less crowded area...

I normally am a sucker for all things Disney and can find some good things to say about most, but...

1. I wouldn't even pay $15 for this.
2. Then, you don't want this.

It is a buffet but, no chairs or seats.
Guests must stand.
And, that means the kids may have their view blocked.

Also, if the wind happens to be blowing toward this area, you will be in a cloud of smoke and cinders from the fireworks.
No, thank you.

There are so many places to view IllumiNations at Epcot's World Showcase
that are wonderful in their own way...


• Bridge between UK and France
• Norway area
• Upper level (outside front terrace) of the Matsu No Ma Lounge in Japan
• Italy, near the Gondolas
• Germany, on the east side, at the water
• Mexico, at the new Cantina
• Mexico, bridge to the right of the Cantina (as you face the lagoon.)
• UK, the Rose & Crown outdoor dining area (ressies required.)
• UK, just to the left of the Rose & Crown (as you face the lagoon.)
• Many, many more great spots.



Be sure to avoid any tree branches that block your overhead view,
and watch out for any "islands" in the water
that block your view of the "center" of the lagoon.



Best Tip:
Don't stand down-wind of the fireworks.
Their SMOKE will ruin the show.
So, If the wind is blowing into your face as you look towards the Lagoon, you are in the wrong spot.
-------------------

On the map below, #14 indicates the location of the "Sparking Dessert Party."

 

[Stinky_Pete]

Robo, as always, has awesome advice and an awesome map.

I've seen people cite the lack of seating at this party as a reason not to book it before. To me that doesn't make a big difference as I've always been standing when I've watched Illuminations.

 

[disneyjunkie]

Robo, as always, has awesome advice and an awesome map.

I've seen people cite the lack of seating at this party as a reason not to book it before. To me that doesn't make a big difference as I've always been standing when I've watched Illuminations.

We sit on the ground while waiting for the show to start. As soon as the late folks start kicking for our spots, we stand up.

We watched Illuminations last April near the Dessert Party. After seeing the set up, I'm definitely booking this for our next trip.

 

[MrsHull]

Against all advice, we've booked this for our November/December trip. It is a MVMCP night ans we will be arriving at Epcot after MK closes, around 7:15 or so. I'm hoping the kids can get a ride or two in future world and then go to the party, rather than traipsing around looking for a good place to stand and so,etching yummy to snack on.

 

[soniam]

We did it last summer and really enjoyed it. The atmosphere was very friendly. The desserts were good and IMHO more upscale than those at the Wishes party. Lack of seating didn't bother me, because you have to stand at the Wishes party too since everyone starts hogging the railing before the show even starts. The sparkling wine wasn't bad either. We liked the view too and felt it was better than the view at the Wishes party. We would consider doing the Illuminations party again but would not consider doing the Wishes party again, even at the older, lower price.