Watching Illuminations from the World Showcase

atilley01

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Apr 13, 2015
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What is your favorite country to watch Illuminations from inside the WS? We'll be eating dinner earlier in the evening and then probably grab some yummy treats to eat while we park and wait for the show. What country has some good viewing spots? Are they usually crowded? How soon would you recommend getting there ahead of time?

Thanks!
 
There are so many places to view IllumiNations at Epcot's World Showcase

that are wonderful in their own way that its futile to try to list them... so I will. ;)



• Bridge between UK and France

• Near the twin gift shops at the entrance to WS from FW

• 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.



Best 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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Epcot-WS-GE_020714_zps34f9d4ad.jpg
 

We get our treats and drinks about 8:30 and start making our way around the lake. When we find a good spot close the the rail we stop, sit and wait. It pays to check which way the wind is blowing and get upwind so the smoke doesn't drift towards you. Some of the best veiwing is from the front of the lake by the walkway to FutureWorld. Everywhere with an unobstructed veiw will be crowded by showtime. Have fun!!
 
We do similar to Jeff above. The wind/smoke is always a consideration. Given that, we find the area between Mexico/Norway, in front of Germany, the gondola area by Italy (if not used for frequent reserved viewing), by the parasol painting area in France, the bridge between France and the UK, in front of Canada, up on the steps or upper wall, all are great. Also the restaurants in the UK or Mexico (next to the lagoon).

Enjoy.
 
How well can you see illuminations from the boardwalk? Do you miss out on more than just what's going on in the lagoon?
 
How well can you see illuminations from the boardwalk? Do you miss out on more than just what's going on in the lagoon?

You see VERY little of Illuminations from the Boardwalk. "What's going on in the lagoon" is a majority of the show. The only thing you'd see from the Boardwalk is the top of some of the fireworks, and there are very few high ones. you would also miss the music, which is so integral to the show.
 
You see VERY little of Illuminations from the Boardwalk. "What's going on in the lagoon" is a majority of the show. The only thing you'd see from the Boardwalk is the top of some of the fireworks, and there are very few high ones. you would also miss the music, which is so integral to the show.

Ahhh. I've never seen Illuminations in all my trips to the world so I will make sure to see it from Epcot itself then. Thank you!
 
Torch #10 in Japan.

not only is it a good view, but it is usually available without showing up really early.

Now when the new show goes in next year, who knows if that will still be a good angle to view the show.
 
Highly recommended, one of my favorite things. Try to listen to the words of "We Go On" and "Promise" (played after the show).

Absolutely love Holiday Illuminations too (but miss Walter Cronkite).


Ahhh. I've never seen Illuminations in all my trips to the world so I will make sure to see it from Epcot itself then. Thank you!
 
Highly recommended, one of my favorite things. Try to listen to the words of "We Go On" and "Promise" (played after the show).

I have those on my Ipod, along with the old Epcot parade music (Tapestry of Dreams). Good stuff!
 
Torch #10 in Japan.

not only is it a good view, but it is usually available without showing up really early.

Now when the new show goes in next year, who knows if that will still be a good angle to view the show.
This is by far my favorite location. The only real downfall to it is that it is a long walk back. lol
 
It pays to check which way the wind is blowing and get upwind so the smoke doesn't drift towards you.
4ce11.jpg
 
Torch #10 in Japan.

not only is it a good view, but it is usually available without showing up really early.
Is Torch #10 an actual torch in Japan, or is that a euphemism for something else? Either way, how would I find it?
 
Is Torch #10 an actual torch in Japan, or is that a euphemism for something else? Either way, how would I find it?

All of the huge flame torches sitting just off-shore in the lagoon have their numbers prominently painted on them.

You'll have no trouble finding "torch 10" if you're at the Japan Pavilion.

(Images below from web search.)

Epcot-torch-x2.jpg
 
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