Hi Lindsay,
Welcome back to planDisney! I'm so glad that you rely on our insights often when you are planning your next Disney vacation, whether it's Walt Disney World, Disneyland or Disney Cruise Line.
And how exciting that you are planning your 50th birthday at Walt Disney World. My husband and I both celebrated our 50th birthdays there, along with our 25th and 30th anniversaries, and many, many other less milestone birthdays and anniversaries before and since.
Regarding your question about timing dining and fireworks at
Epcot: I never like to feel rushed during my meals, and though you probably would have plenty of time to enjoy your family-style character dinner at
Garden Grill before the fireworks begin, I would hate for you to be stressed about it during your celebration.
So I would probably lean toward a reservation at
Spice Road Table. My husband and I watched the
Luminous fireworks from seats inside Spice Road Table recently, and it's a spectacular view. We had not booked the fireworks package, but simply lucked into a last-minute table by the window without a reservation.
In your case, I'd be sure to have a reservation. You can either book a regular dining reservation for 8:15 or so or do the
fireworks dining package.
Bonus: I think the food at Spice Road Table is terrific. We've always loved the hummus fries and the lamb kefta, but we hadn't tried the crispy pomegranate-chili cauliflower until our recent visit. Delicious!
As you likely know, you can make
dining reservations 60 days in advance. For high-demand restaurants and dining experiences, seats fill up quickly, so I would make that reservation as soon as you can.
Wishing you the best birthday celebration ever, Lindsay. And stop by any time if you have more questions.
Enjoy,
Wilma