How to View Happily Ever After

When the sun goes down at Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park, I’ve got only one thing on my mind…FIREWORKS! For decades, Magic Kingdom has been closing most nights with a fireworks spectacular behind Cinderella Castle, and it is a “must-do” for most families. Today, we’re sharing some of our favorite ways to see this not-to-be-missed show.

The current nighttime fireworks show at Magic Kingdom is called Happily Ever After, and it’s simply amazing. Part of what makes Happily Ever After so special are the incredible state-of-the-art projections onto the Castle. These projections are best viewed up close, which means you really want to be inside the park for the show.  

One way to do this is to simply wander over to the castle about an hour before showtime (90

minutes during busier times of the year). Grab a spot, and don't move! If staking our your space that far in advance isn’t the way you envision spending your time at Magic Kingdom, another option is to book the Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. You can read all about that by clicking here.

If you’ve seen Happily Ever After castle-side at least once and you don’t mind missing out on those amazing projections, you’ve got lots of options for watching the fireworks from outside the park. One of my favorite places to view the show is from the California Grill, atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This signature restaurant offers an unforgettable menu of Pacific Coastal cuisine, as well as the most amazing outdoor viewing platform with a perfect vantage point for Happily Ever After.

Fancy dinners not your thing? Consider the Pirates & Pals Fireworks Dessert Voyage! This family-friendly cruise departs from Disney’s Contemporary Resort on most evenings and docks right outside the Magic Kingdom theme park just before the fireworks explode over the Castle. Add delectable treats, hilarious entertainment, and a special guest appearance by some favorite Neverland friends…and you’ve got the perfect way to spend an evening!

Want to keep the whole thing totally casual? Venture over to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to catch the fireworks from their beach! Piped in music, wide open spaces to let the kids run around, and the occasional weather-permitting campfire (sometimes even with s’mores!)...it really is a hidden, unstructured gem. Tip: Try to book a dinner reservation at ‘Ohana for either before or after the show!

And there you have it! Our favorite ways to see the Happily Ever After Fireworks Spectacular at Disney's Magic Kingdom theme park! Need help planning your next Disney World vacation? Contact us today!

Meredith McCutcheon: Owner and Disney Vacation Specialist

Ph: 313-600-1585

E-mail: disneymadeeasy@yahoo.com