July 4th activities at WDW?

[MichelleB]

Ok, my all knowing friends, what kind of activities does Disney have at WDW geared for the 4th of July? This will be our first trip there for the 4th and we have no idea what to expect. Which park or location is the best to see fireworks? Are there any other special activities? We are checking in on the 4th so I'd like to gather as much info ahead of time as possible. We'll be staying at BCV with other family members and want to make this trip as special as we can for them. Thank you for any help you can give me.

 

[dbond]

Hmmm, we go on the 4th every year, I'm not recalling anything special other than the fireworks, which are definitely worth the trip and why we keep going back and fighting the crowds year after year. The Studios show Sorcery in the Sky, a show only shown on special occasions. The fireworks at the MK are our personal favorite. The show is amazingly spectactular, red/white&blue fireworks, patriotic music, 360 degree views around the MK, we just love it. Epcot has the usual Illuminations, we've never been in Epcot on the 4th so I don't know if it's different. The resorts may have gatherings, but I just can't recall, we always pick our park and get in it early so we don't get left out if it reaches capacity. It's a day of people watching, eating, relaxing and maybe catching a ride or two with a fast pass for us. The parks are very crowded, but if you go with the attitude of enjoying the masses, it's worth it for the show later.

 

[tjkraz]

See link for 4th of July info from Allearsnet.com:

http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/fojuly.htm

 

[Snowgod]

Magic Kingdom: The July 4th fireworks are scheduled to take place at 9 p.m. Fireworks will be launched over Cinderella Castle and from points throughout the theme park. Fireworks will be followed by two presentations of "SpectroMagic" parade, at 10:30 p.m. and midnight.

Disney-MGM Studios: Disney-MGM Studios will celebrate the Fourth of July with a special nighttime fireworks show at 9 p.m. Exploding in a kaleidoscope of color over the 12-story Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat icon, the showbiz-inspired, pyrotechnic performance will feature a choreographed soundtrack that combines traditional tunes with pop tributes. Fireworks again take center stage at 10:30 p.m. when Mickey Mouse stars in "Fantasmic!" -- the theme park's popular 30-minute show that features lasers, lights, dancing fountains and dazzling special effects.


Epcot: The American Adventure pavilion in World Showcase serves as the centerpiece of the theme park's Independence Day events with the Voices of Liberty performing a cappella, patriotic music throughout the day. Disney characters will get into the red, white and blue spirit, and "Betsy Ross" will greet youngsters anxious to know about the origins of America's flag. There will be a special July 4th tribute during "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth" at 10 p.m.

Animal Kingdom: Vocals Incorporated, a sextet of singers, will honor America with a variety of standards and contemporary tune in the theme park's Palm Courtyard from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Downtown Disney Pleasure Island: Guests will "party patriotic" at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island July 2-4 with the Fourth of July Blast, featuring an island-wide street party, patriotic music by live bands and the Pleasure Island DJ, and a late-night fireworks show that can be viewed throughout the nighttime entertainment district.

4th of July Dining Celebration at California Grill - Contemporary - The event will feature entertainment to celebrate Independence Day with a great view of fireworks at the MAGIC KINGDOM Park and Walt Disney World Resort. Guests will enjoy a "dine around" experience with multiple food and wine stations throughout the restaurant.

 

[westjones]

Is there a special fireworks show at MK for the 4th of July, or is it the Wishes program they do every night?

DJ

 

[poohj80]

We've never been to WDW on the 4th and just realized we'll be in the area that weekend. Does the MK traditionally close early to guests on the 4th due to the number of people who have already passed through the gates?

 

[CarolA]

Mouseplanet.com has a story on July 4th today. He says the MK is normally closed by 3 to 4 pm.

The show at the American Gardnes Pavilion at Epcot is VERY good if you get the chance.

Everything I read says they "think" there will be special fireworks at MK, but I have seen nothing official.

My plan is MGM for fireworks with a power walk to Epcot for the fireworks there.

I may try to get by AK to see the performance.