Walt Disney World has some pretty spectacular nighttime shows. Recently we took a closer look at Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After and now it’s Epcot’s turn. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth incorporates stunning music, fireworks, fountains, and dazzling lasers to create a breathtaking outdoor production like none other. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth has shown nightly at Epcot’s World Showcase Lagoon since October 1, 1999, and will be retiring with its last show scheduled for September 30, 2019. The new show that will be replacing IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth for a limited time is called Epcot Forever. We will delve into all the exciting details about Epcot Forever a little later, along with information on the plan for an all-new nighttime spectacular to debut in 2020 at Epcot. But first, journey with me as we look at Epcot’s current nighttime show before taking an exciting look ahead to the future.
IllumiNation’s: Reflections of Earth
As the torches that burn bright around World Showcase extinguish and the music begins you are instantly drawn into the story of the Earth and all the remarkable people and cultures that live on our gorgeous planet. As the show draws to a close and the Earth Globe opens revealing a torch of unity the song “We Go On” provides a tear-jerking finale to an incredible show. The fireworks that light the sky during the grand finale are gorgeous and quite something to behold.
Viewing Locations:
There are many excellent viewing locations for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, pretty much if you have a clear unobstructed view into World Showcase Lagoon, you are good to go. However, there are a few places that give pretty incredible vantage points including:
- The bridge between France and the United Kingdom Pavilion
- Along the lagoon between Mexico and Norway
- Italy Pavilion at the island along the lagoon
- La Cantina de San Angel in the Mexico Pavilion
- Rose and Crown Patio (IllumiNations Dining Package)
Other Viewing Options:
Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase:
Fans of Frozen, or let’s face it just fans of dessert will love this option to enjoy tasty treats and get a perfect viewing location for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. The party starts at World Showcase Plaza East where you will enjoy specialty beverages along with sweet and savory food options to please everyone in the family. Some desserts include Elsa’s Blue Velvet Cupcakes, Freeze Fried Salted Caramel Popcorn, Wandering Oaken’s Eclairons, fresh fruit, cheese fondue and so much more! Beverages include cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options. After you have satisfied that sweet tooth, enjoy the show from the perfect seat around World Showcase. Once the nighttime spectacular is over a Cast Member will escort you to the Norway Pavilion, where you will have the opportunity to ride the very popular Frozen Ever After attraction. Reservations are required and can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
IllumiNations Dining Package:
Enjoy the show in delicious style as you dine on the lakefront patio at Rose & Crown Dining Room at the United Kingdom Pavilion at Epcot. The patio provides incredible views of the nighttime show as you enjoy traditional British cuisine. You should arrive an hour before show start with the entire dining experience lasting about 1 ½ hours. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
IllumiNations Fireworks Cruise:
Set sail aboard your private pontoon boat as you glide into World Showcase Lagoon and dock to get without a doubt the most amazing view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth you will ever have. Departing from Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Marina, this cruise includes beverages and light snacks as well as any festive decorations for a special occasion you are celebrating. Your captain will sail you around Crescent Lake before or after the show giving you a tour and if the timing is right, you can enjoy fireworks from Disney’s Hollywood Studios as well. Now that’s fireworks viewing in style!
Epcot’s Nighttime Show Future:
Epcot Forever –
Debuting October 1, 2019, this limited time night show will celebrate Epcot’s past, present, and future through fireworks and special effects. You will witness all you love about Epcot come to life in this new nighttime show that will include many unbelievable special effects such as choreographed kites set to music that has become favorites at Epcot. Like IllumiNations, this nighttime show can be seen anywhere around World Showcase that gives you a clear view of the lagoon.
Disney also released an announcement regarding a new nighttime spectacular that will be debuting in 2020 at Epcot. This new show will feature huge floating set pieces, LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lasers, pyrotechnics and so much more! The show will celebrate Disney music and how it has inspired people worldwide. Keep an eye out for any new details on both new nighttime shows at our sister site Chip and Co., your source for all the latest Disney news.
Exciting things are happening over at Epcot, but if you are mourning the loss of Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, you still have time to enjoy it over the summer and early fall. Although I am a huge fan of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, I am excited to see all the new and innovatively beautiful special effects, music, and fireworks that will be thrilling millions who visit Epcot in the future. What about you? Are you excited for the future of Epcot’s nighttime shows? I would love to hear what you think!
Photo Source: Disney
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As a travel planner with Key to the World Travel, I get to help families plan their own magical vacations every single day! It's a dream come true! I have a wonderful husband who supports my dream and a spunky daughter who always keeps me on my toes! If I am not planning amazing adventures, I am usually baking or reading a good book.
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