Illuminations

[Minnie368]

Illuminations on a busy park day- best locations to watch from without a fast pass, and how far in advance to grab a spot?

 

[Robo]

Illuminations on a busy park day- best locations to watch from without a fast pass, and how far in advance to grab a spot?

There are so many places to view IllumiNations at Epcot's World Showcase
that are wonderful in each of its own way that its futile to try to list them... so I will.



• Bridge between UK and France

• Norway area

• Upper level (outside front terrace) of the Matsu No Ma Lounge in Japan

• Italy, near the Gondolas

• 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.

On a busy evening, arrive at your chosen spot 45-60 min. before show time.

Most Important 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.

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[gorkt]

If you have a Chase credit card, doesn't have to be a Disney one, there is a nice unobstructed viewing area between the Italy and American pavilions. We got there at 9:30pm for a 10pm show and still got a spot near the railing.

 

[Minnie368]

Great info from both of you. Thanks so much!

 

[outlander]

If you have a Chase credit card, doesn't have to be a Disney one, there is a nice unobstructed viewing area between the Italy and American pavilions. We got there at 9:30pm for a 10pm show and still got a spot near the railing.

This is during Food & Wine Fest

 

[Champs040713]

Does the time changes with the seasons? Or is it always at the same time? Going 1/30- 2/4

 

[Robo]

Does the time changes with the seasons? Or is it always at the same time? Going 1/30- 2/4

Its show time starts when Epcot closes, which is at 9PM most of the year.
However, that changes to 9:30PM during the holiday dates.

There are a very, very few times when Epcot closes at 10PM and IllumiNations follows that change.

Regardless, just look at the calendars. The time will be posted.

IllumiNations does not change times for Epcot PM EMH.

 

[DisneyMom111]

We were there last year during the F&W and it was packed. I grabbed a spot in Mexico, just to the left of the Cantina, 2 hours ahead of time. People were already steaking their spots that early. I got a margarita and people watched while other members of the group took turns walking around. And of course you will have last minute people walk up and try to push in next to you so stand your ground.

 

[Klayfish]

We've never had trouble getting a good spot for Illuminations. That's one of the great things about that show, there are SO many places to see it from. We typically watch it from the area around the twin gift shops and get there no more than 10 minutes ahead of time. We may not be right up at the railing, but you don't need to be. All the other shows, such as Wishes, Fantasmic, etc...we arrive 45-60 minutes early. Illuminations we just walk up when we're ready, which is awesome.

 

[FastPasser]

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