Pre or Post Fireworks Dessert Party?

[CaroM8]

Hi friends!

My daughter (9) and I are heading back to Disney in September with my mom this time (she has never been!) and I wanted to make it extra special for her. Especially for the MK fireworks! We've been to MK in September for the last two years and although the whole vacation is pretty low crowds the whole time - the exception is MK fireworks on a non party day. Because there are usually 2 or 3 Halloween parties during the week, the fireworks crowds are pretty intense on the non party days. Last year we didn't even try to get close to the hub, we just rode some rides and saw the fireworks from Fantasyland. This year though with mom being there and this probably being her one and only trip - we gotta see the fireworks.

Anyway, all this to say - we will be booking a dessert party, just not sure which one yet. I am leaning towards the Post Fireworks party just so we can see the show, then leisurely snack on desserts while the park clears out.

Also, can someone circle on the map the exact viewing area for the fireworks?

Thanks!

 

[hardcorestitch]

I’d go post fireworks. It’s a great way to cap off such a magical evening!

 

[nanoburd]

The fireworks party viewing area is here in red.

The walkway in front of it is reserved for accessible/wheelchair visitors to view the fireworks.

I wouldn’t stress about getting to this viewing area early, even if you are at the back of that garden area the view is perfect because its not packed like sardines, so you’ll have good sightlines.

Only thing to consider for post-party is how sleepy the 9-year-old will be if you think they will last. And if the sugar right before bed is a good idea.

 

[Genie+]

https://wdwprepschool.com/dessert-parties/

^This is the most thorough resource I’ve come across.

 

[Genie+]

Only thing to consider for post-party is how sleepy the 9-year-old will be if you think they will last

That was my first thought! I know we are often pooped by the time fireworks are ending. That could make the dessert portion less enjoyable if all you’re thinking is how long will it take us to get back to our room. We have made it work though, especially when my kids were teens and had boundless night energy lol.

 

[CaroM8]

That was my first thought! I know we are often pooped by the time fireworks are ending. That could make the dessert portion less enjoyable if all you’re thinking is how long will it take us to get back to our room. We have made it work though, especially when my kids were teens and had boundless night energy lol.

I did think about this yes - she would probably be ok and we would plan the day accordingly.. Good thing I still have lots of time to decide...

 

[elvispursley]

Are there areas in either the pre-/post-dessert parties for wheelchairs/ECVs viewing? Trying to decide if we want to try a party this year or not. It will be just my mom and me and my first year using a wheelchair all by myself (she'll be using a scooter). Is one better than the other for going through the dessert line crowd-wise?

 

[davidrw]

I’d go with the pre fireworks party if you want a smoother night, since you can settle in, enjoy the treats and then focus on the show without feeling rushed. The post party can feel a bit anticlimactic when everyone is tired and just trying to get out after the fireworks.

 

[LuckyMamaInDE]

Are there areas in either the pre-/post-dessert parties for wheelchairs/ECVs viewing? Trying to decide if we want to try a party this year or not. It will be just my mom and me and my first year using a wheelchair all by myself (she'll be using a scooter). Is one better than the other for going through the dessert line crowd-wise?

In the diagram posted above, the lefthand side of the walkway above the circled area is for dessert party wc/ecv users. It's separated from non-dessert party wc/ecv users on the righthand side by a rope (and cast members lol) Once you check in, a cast member will escort you through the gate in the middle right side of the circled area and through another gate into the wc/ecv area.

I've done the post party twice with my dd who uses a wc at WDW. We check in really early so that she can get a spot at the railing in front of the special viewing area.

Dd has never gone through the food line in a wc because she has some really complicated food allergies that necessitate totally different foods for her (not even the usual gf or df or vegan plate). I think the post party might be a bit more chill for those using wheels to get around. Pre party seems like a lot of people would be rushing to get their food and eat before heading over to the reserved area.

 

[elvispursley]

In the diagram posted above, the lefthand side of the walkway above the circled area is for dessert party wc/ecv users. It's separated from non-dessert party wc/ecv users on the righthand side by a rope (and cast members lol) Once you check in, a cast member will escort you through the gate in the middle right side of the circled area and through another gate into the wc/ecv area.

I've done the post party twice with my dd who uses a wc at WDW. We check in really early so that she can get a spot at the railing in front of the special viewing area.

Dd has never gone through the food line in a wc because she has some really complicated food allergies that necessitate totally different foods for her (not even the usual gf or df or vegan plate). I think the post party might be a bit more chill for those using wheels to get around. Pre party seems like a lot of people would be rushing to get their food and eat before heading over to the reserved area.

Thank you for this info! It's very helpful! I've heard other reviews mention that the post-party was a bit more preferred. We usually go in late August/September but are doing a family cruise then so the annual "girls" trip will be in July. So no MNSSHP this year so will likely book a dessert party instead!