Hi Debi,
Thanks for writing back with a follow-up question!
Fantasmic! combines fireworks, water effects, lasers and a cavalcade of Disney characters as Sorcerer's Apprentice Mickey faces down some classic villains. The 30-minute show takes place in the huge Hollywood Hills Amphitheater at Hollywood Studios on selected nights.
The show is very popular, and some guests start lining up 90 minutes ahead of time, when the gates open, to be able to choose their seats. If you book one of the Fantasmic dining packages, you will get a voucher that entitles you to seating in a reserved section. You still have to choose your seat and it is recommended that you arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the show, even if you have a voucher.
If you are on a Disney Dining Plan that includes the Fantasmic! dining package at no extra cost, then I would recommend it. If you are not, then I'm not sure it's necessary. (It costs a few dollars more per person).
My family had initially booked a dining package on a recent visit, but switched it to a regular reservation when we realized the it would cost us more to get the Fantasmic! vouchers. We arrived at the amphitheater about an hour before the show and found seats easily in a prime location.
There are concession stands in the amphitheater that serve snacks, soft drinks and adult beverages. The time until the show began passed quickly.
During your visit, it appears that Fantasmic! will take place at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. nightly. The second show is usually less crowded, but you may have to stand longer to wait in line for the previous show to clear. I know you have children and grandparents in your party, so that may be a consideration.
I think your family will really enjoy the show and hope you get a chance to see it. Please let me know if I can offer more help.
Wilma