Illuminations, where exactly is it?

[jen7233]

We aren't getting a fast pass. We are actually eating in Teppan Edo and then hoping to catch Illuminations. But where in Epcot can we see it, if it's fireworks can't we really just see it anywhere in Epcot?

 

[Airship Ariadne]

Anywhere in the World showcase, it is in the center of the lagoon...some spots have better views than others

 

[Aerinha]

The fireworks are lower than other parks and the spinning globe thing is really low, to see it all, get as close to the lagoon as possible.

 

[Dawnlight]

We aren't getting a fast pass. We are actually eating in Teppan Edo and then hoping to catch Illuminations. But where in Epcot can we see it, if it's fireworks can't we really just see it anywhere in Epcot?

We actually watched it from Teppan Edo, the terrace at the top of the steps. It was a fantastic view.

 

[CAS239]

Yea you can watch it from anywhere in world showcase. There's so many good spots that the FP for it is not needed at all.

The only advice I'd say is to keep in mind the direction of the wind so you don't have smoke blowing on you. And to make sure you're free from any trees so you have a clear view.

Once you're there and it's getting close to Illuminations time, you can look out on the water and see where the globe is

 

[Lucius Best]

The spot closest to the spinning globe is probably in Canada. But you can get a great view from anywhere as long as you don't have a tree in front of you. I second what CAS239 says about smoke, definitely check the direction of the wind.

 

[disneygolfer1985]

Yes the wind factor is very important. I usually have 2-3 places to watch the fireworks from depending in the win. The bridge between France and the UK is great. Also, just on the outskirts of Germany is a great location. Those 2 locations are almost directly across from each other, so depending in the wind, I'll pick my spot based on that. However, pretty much anywhere along the world showcase is great a viewing area.

 

[Tomh]

We love to try to schedule a late dinner at Rose & Crown and watch from there. The bridge between France and the UK is good as well, but really, anywhere along the World Showcase Lagoon is fine as long as you don't have trees / islands blocking your view, AND . . .. when facing the lagoon, wind should not be blowing in your face. If it is, move!

 

[jen7233]

We actually watched it from Teppan Edo, the terrace at the top of the steps. It was a fantastic view.

Really? I will have to check that out! We went to Teppan Edo back in 2011 and I can't remember what's around it.

 

[jen7233]

Thanks everyone. So from what I gather here, anywhere in World Showcase and not near trees....
and wind is something to consider. Is it that smoky?

 

[Lucius Best]

Thanks everyone. So from what I gather here, anywhere in World Showcase and not near trees....
and wind is something to consider. Is it that smoky?

We chose poorly one year, didn't check the wind, and got smoked. Not just smoke, but ash, and little bits of exploded fireworks falling from the sky. And with the cloud coming at you, your view of the remaining fireworks will not be very good. (This was near Canada, which I think is the closest to the spinning globe and fireworks barge)

 

[jen7233]

Wow, I had no idea to think of wind. Glad I asked this question!

 

[Hopefully]

Have you ever seen Illuminations? I totally think of it as more than fireworks. Describing it as fireworks is doing it a disservice, IMO. It is fireworks, and lasers and torches and lights and music and fire and a spinning globe!!! It is my favorite nighttime show in WDW.
We love to watch near Germany, the bridge between FRance and the UK or in Canada.
Enjoy!!!

 

[philharmagic fan]

There's also a nice long stretch of lagoonside rail between Norway and Mexico - good if you have kids because there are restrooms right there at Norway, and lots of nearby snack vendors.

 

[disnut8]

Have you ever seen Illuminations? I totally think of it as more than fireworks. Describing it as fireworks is doing it a disservice, IMO. It is fireworks, and lasers and torches and lights and music and fire and a spinning globe!!! It is my favorite nighttime show in WDW.
We love to watch near Germany, the bridge between FRance and the UK or in Canada.
Enjoy!!!

Totally agree with this response. Also, check out wikipedia for the story behind the show and what each of the "movements" suggests. So when that globe comes out and everyone else is saying "this stinks since it's so slow", you will know what it represents.

The only bad spot I've ever had for Illuminations was when I, at 5 foot nothing, stood behind a family of five sitting on the ground in front of the railing. Once the music started, they all stood up and not one of them was under 6'2" tall. I call it "the time I watched Illuminations after a forest sprung up in front of me." I did watch between the "branches".