Greetings Katherine! It's great to see you back here at the Disney Parks Moms Panel. We're so excited that you have another magical vacation planned!
EPCOT is my family's favorite theme park, and I can't think of a better way to cap off a Disney day than with a nighttime spectacular set against the backdrop of World Showcase. In October you will either have the pleasure of experiencing
EPCOT Forever, a show that celebrates this theme park's dynamic and beloved history, or you may be fortunate enough to catch the debut of
Harmonius, a new nighttime spectacular set to debut sometime this year.
I have seen countless nighttime shows on World Showcase Lagoon over many visits to Walt Disney World, and some of my favorite viewing locations can be secured just a few minutes before showtime. Italy and Japan are two of the best spots to stand and see a show, and if you arrive early enough, you can sit on the ground up against the fence in both of these locations. During one visit when I was pregnant and wanted a more comfortable place to sit before and during the show, I found an elevated ledge at the foot of the pagoda in Japan that provided an excellent view. There are also benches scattered around the lagoon, but there are often spoken for one to hours prior to show time.
For a relaxed experience that combines a seated dinner and a show, I recommend making an Advanced Dining Reservation at one of the lagoon side restaurants in World Showcase.
La Hacienda de San Angel in Mexico and
Spice Road Table in Morocco offer delicious food in a tranquil setting with fantastic views of the fireworks from most tables. I recommend arriving slightly before your reservation time to request a water view table.
If you prefer a quick-service meal, check out
La Cantina de San Angel. The patio tables here are popular and fill up early, so I suggest arriving well in advance of the show to enjoy a margarita, some tacos, and other Mexican specialties while you wait. My family loves to share an order of churros here for dessert. ¡Qué delicioso!
To guarantee a perfect view with your meal, consider booking the
EPCOT Forever Dining Package at the
Rose & Crown Dining Room. This all-inclusive experience allows you to enjoy a prix-fixe menu that features some Rose & Crown favorites, as well as a selection of unlimited non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, all served at your patio table with sweeping views of the nighttime spectacular.
Katherine, no matter where you choose to view EPCOT's nighttime entertainment, I know you will enjoy closing out your Disney day with the sights and sounds of this majestic theme park. At the conclusion of the show, be sure to take your time and stroll leisurely through World Showcase as it bids goodnight to another day. It's the perfect way to wind down after a busy day enjoying the theme parks.
Thanks again for stopping by the
Disney Parks Moms Panel. If you have more questions as your vacation approaches, send them our way!
Have a great big, beautiful tomorrow,
Betsy