Howdy Jocelyn! I love it when a fellow Texan stops by planDisney with a question for us!
I miss the dessert parties too, Jocelyn. Watching the spectacular
Happily Ever After fireworks sparked a dream in so many of us! And then to add scrumptious desserts along with it and a beautiful spot to watch the show; you're all set for one of the best experiences ever! The show will be replaced beginning October 1st by a new nighttime experience,
Disney Enchantment, and it sounds absolutely incredible, as fireworks will light up the sky and projections will stretch down Main Street, U.S.A., in celebration of Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary! However, if you’re a huge fan of Happily Ever After like me, you’ll be happy to hEAR there’s still time to catch the nighttime showings until September 29th of this year!
At this time, dessert parties have not yet returned to Walt Disney World Resort; however, I would be happy to discuss some magical ways to help minimize your time spent in a tight crowd while watching fireworks. Perhaps consider
viewing the show from other locations like the Tangled Restroom area, behind the Cinderella Castle near the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, and on the bridge near Be Our Guest Restaurant! These areas are usually without crowds and make for magical viewings. Here are other great options:
California Grill - If you make a dining reservation at this incredible restaurant, not only will you get some of the best food on property, but you will also get to watch the show on the 15th-floor observation deck overlooking Cinderella Castle from Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The observation deck also provides the full soundtrack for a full experience! Even if your reservation isn’t during the show, you can let the Cast Member at the podium on the 2nd floor know about your reservation earlier in the day, and they’ll be happy to let you up to the observation deck.
Specialty Cruises - Why not go out with a bang and book a private cruise on the Seven Seas Lagoon? This private watercraft allows the perfect opportunity to watch the fireworks without the crowds. It has synchronized audio onboard, so you’re immersed in the experience, and it is absolutely magical! You can call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529 to reserve a cruise.
Disney Resorts Collection hotel viewing -
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is not only my favorite place in the world, but it also has some of the best views of the fireworks! One of the coolest things I’ve ever done was book a theme park view room and watch the show in my pajamas! But you don’t have to pay to watch the fireworks there, as you can also head down to the boat launch or sit outside Gasparilla Island Grill!
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort’s beach is also a great option! It’s a straight-on view of the show with lots of room, so grab a DOLE Whip and get ready to “Reach out and find your Happily Ever After!”
I hope your daughter has an enchanting time, Jocelyn!
Aena