I think I remember being able to go to Guest Relations in Epcot and MK and request seating in the "VIP" viewing area for the fireworks or Illuminations. It was first come, first serve. Do they still have this?
Yes they have it. It's included in Dream Maker add-ons. I don't know that you can just walk up and request it. It may cost money. You'd have to ask a CRO or call wdw-tour. We're going on the silver plan. For July I was told to call as soon as I could to make my priority viewing requests. This is 10 days out for Wishes and 45 days out for Illuminations.