On
May 3, 2013
Cheri
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.
“
We will be at Disney in 10 days. We are super excited! A little nervous regarding the parades and nighttime shows (fireworks). How do we find the best seats? We do not want to miss anything. Thank you for your help.”
Hi Cheri! Wow, the countdown is on - only 10 more sleeps until you are at Walt Disney World! Don't be nervous, just take a deep breath and tell yourself that there is no need to worry about anything when you are at Walt Disney World.
You'll need to do a bit of advance planning when you're there, but I promise, not a lot! When arriving at each Theme Park, you will be given a park map and times guide, which will list times for parades or fireworks. Generally, people will start staking out their "spot" 1 to 2 hours ahead of time. Personally, I'd rather spend that time enjoying the other rides and attractions, and forgo having the best seat in the house, but each family is different. If this is important to you and your family, you will need to find your spot nice and early, and then sit and wait. This is a good time to enjoy a cool beverage or ice-cream treat, and of course, people watching is always a great way to pass the time. For parades, you will know where to sit, as the Cast Members will set up ropes well in advance along the parade route - just pick a spot close to the rope and either stand or sit. For the fireworks, the best viewing in my opinion, is directly in front of Cinderella Castle, or anywhere along Main Street U.S.A. Frontierland viewing is usually less crowded, and also provides a good view, but you may miss seeing some of the lower fireworks and Tinkerbell flying to the Castle.
Cheri, I strongly recommend downloading the free app for smartphones, My Disney Experience. It has so many great and very useful features like park maps, attraction wait times, character locations, parade/fireworks times, restaurant info and reservations and so much more. It will be super-helpful during your vacation.
I truly hope you and your family have a magical vacation at Walt Disney World! There is nothing like viewing the Wishes Fireworks for the 1st time - you will love it!
Kristen