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  • On Jul 31, 2014
    Wendy from TN 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.

    My husband and I will be dining at California Grill for the 1st time on 10/9. Our res is for 9:20 and HalloWishes fireworks should be going off at 9:30. Should I be concerned about seeing them from Cali Grill with the res time so close to the show time?

    Hi Wendy,

    I love watching Wishes from the California Grill! When the restaurant was renovated last year, they added another outdoor viewing area, so now there's twice the space to see the fireworks up close.

    I would plan to check in for your reservation between 8:45 and 9 p.m. The check-in area gets a bit congested as the time for Wishes nears, so you want to be sure you have plenty of time to reach the desk, which is located on the second floor of the Contemporary resort. You will be given an electronic pager and ushered upstairs to wait for your table.

    The restaurant does an amazing job of timing diners' meals and service around the fireworks. The lights are dimmed for the show, and an announcement is made, encouraging diners to move to an outdoor viewing area if they wish. If you are seated before 9:30, your server will work around the fireworks with your order. They won't bring food to your table while you are outside, if that's where you choose to watch. Also, if you haven't been seated by 9:30, you likely won't be paged in the middle of the show.

    So, I'd arrive early, grab a drink from the bar (if you're inclined) and know that you are going to have an awesome view of Hallo-wishes and an amazing meal afterward. California Grill may be my favorite Walt Disney World restaurant. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

    Please let me know if I can answer any other questions for you as you plan your visit. I'm happy to help.

    Wilma

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Meet the Panelist: Wilma, Florida

We live 90 miles from Walt Disney World and have visited frequently for 20 years. Disney is the place our family can relax together, try new things (especially interesting food) and have conversations, no matter what park we visit or where we stay.
Learn More About Wilma

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