Hi Danielle!
Welcome to planDisney! That sounds like the most magical night! And it seems like you’ve planned it perfectly!
Since you’re arriving soon, I’m happy to report that
Happily Ever After currently begins at 9:00 PM and lasts just under 20 minutes. This should give you plenty of time to enjoy the show and make it to your reservation on time!
You’ll check in for
Cinderella’s Royal Table on the backside of the castle, so getting to the check-in podium will look a little different depending on where you’re watching the fireworks.
If you want to fully experience the show and see the projections, you’ll want to stand somewhere in front of the castle. In that case, once the show ends, you’ll head toward the right or left of the castle and take one of the walkways around the castle to get to the back, as the walkway through the castle will still be closed.
It’s good to note that you’ll be walking against the crowd for a bit if you decide to go this route. So, be patient and make sure your party sticks together as you make your way toward the back of the castle.
Speaking of those crowds, lots of people like to stand out in front of Cinderella Castle to watch Happily Ever After, so I’d plan to find a spot for the show about 45-60 minutes early if there’s a certain spot you have in mind.
Now, I know you’d miss out on the projections with this next recommendation, but if that’s ok with you, this is what I’d personally do! You can watch the fireworks from Fantasyland.
Not only will it be much easier to get to your Cinderella’s Royal Table reservation after the fireworks are over, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the fireworks with much fewer crowds. That means you don’t need to stake out your spot early, and if you’re with a little one, they can move around a bit without a worry.
My favorite spots to watch the fireworks from Fantasyland are directly behind Cinderella Castle by
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, over by the Tangled lanterns near
It’s a Small World and
Peter Pan’s Flight, or back in Storybook Circus by
Dumbo.
The fireworks feel as if they’re right over the top of you, and you can hear the music from around the park. It really does add a magical touch, even without seeing the projections!
I hope that helps! No matter which one you decide, it sounds like you’ll have such a great night. We’ll see you real soon!
Jenn J.