July 4

[Robmom]

What are your experiences with dining on July 4? My DD says she definitely wants to be in MK on the 4th, and I really want to stay away from there that day. I was thinking of having dinner at California Grill that night, and then we can watch the fireworks. What time should I make my reservation for?

 

[TDC Nala]

Be aware that California Grill usually has a special event on July 4th that costs around $200 per person.

If you want to be in MK on the 4th, I'd suggest getting there as early as possible and not leaving, because if they close for capacity you won't be allowed in even if you have an ADR inside the park. If your daughter just wants to see the fireworks, California Grill is probably out unless you want to book the special event. I think Polynesian might restrict their beach to resort guests on that day, possibly that is something they used to do but don't anymore. The fireworks can be seen from 'Ohana, but you'd have to have a window table with a view of the castle to see anything. If you want to go that route I'd find out when the fireworks start and book the ADR about an hour prior to that.

 

[jpal]

I will be in Disney this July also. We made reservations at the California Grill for July 3th. The past two year's, it's been the same show on the 3rd as the one on the 4th. Also the last two years the fireworks at MK were at 9 PM instead of the usual 10 PM on both July 3rd and July 4th. This doesn't mean the same will occur this year but I am hoping so. Will not know for sure until the hours are posted.

 

[Tinkrbell]

TDC Nala is absolutely right. We were there in 07 on the 4th and stayed at CR. They close the park early, between 1 and 3 due to capacity and it was a madhouse in there. They won't even let you in the resort parking lots unless you have a reservation or an ADR and are on the list.
It was our checkout day and had left for something and they almost didn't let us back in the lot. Luckily we had our last ADR and just stayed to watch the fireworks.
I would strongly suggest eating at one of the resorts and get your ADR early or you won't get in.

 

[DisneyMomx7]

You could make an ADR at Narcoossee's. You can see the MK fireworks from there.

We've been at Disney for the 4th of July in 2005, 2007 and 2009. We always watched the MK fireworks on the 3rd and Illuminations in EPCOT on the 4th. Last year we had a patio table at Rose and Crown and it was spectacular!