Tips for Disneyland Fireworks Tonight

Need tips for Disneyland fireworks tonight? Learn about my favorite spots and not-so-crowded spots to watch Disneyland fireworks, plus tons of other tips and places to enjoy the show! Updated for 2024.

But first these fireworks details:

• Projections show nightly at Disneyland Park with added fireworks on weekends and holidays
• Shows begin at 9:00 or 9:30 PM, check the Disneyland app under entertainment for updates
• My favorite walk up spot is in front of “it’s a small world”
• Keep reading for more info, VIP spots and how to exit when fireworks are over

There are many great spots to watch Disneyland fireworks, some with better views than others. The best place to watch Disneyland fireworks depends on your group and your priorities. In this article, I’ll share all the places you can watch Disneyland fireworks including tips how to score a VIP Disneyland fireworks experience.

Disneyland Fireworks Quick Tips

During the Diamond Celebration, guests enjoying Disneyland Forever fireworks heard this play over the speakers each night, “Walt Disney wanted the nightly fireworks to be like a kiss goodnight—a little bit of pixie dust to end your visit to this Magic Kingdom. It’s a tradition we honor and cherish to this day. And so, we wish you a lifetime of dreams come true and hope you always remember your special ‘Kiss Goodnight’ at the Happiest Place on Earth.” 

Enjoy your “kiss goodnight” with these quick tips for Disneyland fireworks in Anaheim, California.

Are There Fireworks at Disneyland Tonight?

Projections show nightly at Disneyland Park with added fireworks on weekends and holidays. The daily Disneyland Projection and Fireworks schedule is listed here, but they only show a few weeks in advance.

If you’re looking ahead, this article will help you know which fireworks are on display throughout the year.

What Time are Disneyland Fireworks? 

Disneyland Fireworks begin at approximately 9:00 or 9:30 PM on select nights. During summer break and major holidays. Fireworks are usually limited to weekend nights when school is in session. 

 

 

Do Disneyland fireworks run every night?

No, Disneyland fireworks do not run every night. In the summer months and during the holidays they generally run every night, but during the winter they may be limited to weekends only. BUT, the nightly projection shows almost every night at Disneyland and it’s not to be missed! Keep reading for details. 

Keep in mind that weather weather is also a factor in firework displays. Even if you can’t feel a breeze down on the ground there might be more wind higher up, causing the fireworks to be shortened or canceled.

 

 

• Fall is packed with Halloween Time fun all over Disneyland Resort. Halloween Screams is scheduled nightly during Halloween Time, with the addition of fireworks on select nights including Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 
• During the holidays, fireworks fill the night sky every night. Believe … in Holiday Magic fireworks even end  with a magical snowfall finale. 
• After the holidays, there’s usually a fireworks break until spring and sometimes fireworks return to weekend nights only.  

How long do the fireworks last?

Disneyland fireworks show lasts about 15 minutes. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time before and after fireworks to secure your viewing spot and exit the area afterwards. Total time commitment depends on your viewing location.

 

 

Disneyland Fireworks Through the Year

Disneyland knows how to bring you back again and again to its famous theme parks. Maybe it’s a change in the menu offerings or a new souvenir you just can’t miss. But for many of us it’s the nightly fireworks show. 

Firework displays change throughout the year. Here are some previous fireworks shows that often return over the years. We usually see these shows rotate throughout the year depending on the season:

• Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular
• Mickey’s Mix Magic
• Wondrous Journeys
• Disneyland Forever
• Halloween Screams
• Believe in Holiday Magic

I have the break down on each including where to watch and when they’ll be on display in 2024.

Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular

During Pixar Fest, this Pixar themed nighttime show will run nightly April 26 – August 4, 2024.

This is one of the cutest, heart felt nighttime shows at Disneyland Resort and you’re going to want to watch it at least once during your visit. 

 

 

Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular can be seen from various locations but projections are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”
• Secret spot without all the distractions? Try this.

Does Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular have fireworks? While the show runs every night, fireworks are limited to weekend nights and major holidays or breaks.

What time is Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular Most nights at 9:30 pm. Check the Disneyland app for official times. 

Do I need to save spots to watch Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular? You should snag a spot early on nights when they include fireworks. For lower crowds, I suggest Rivers of America, especially when Fantasmic is not running which significantly clears that area.

On fireworks night, find your favorite area about an hour and 30 minutes before the show. On nights featuring music and projections, you can often find a spot to enjoy the view about 10 minutes before.

The key here is actually getting to your desired spot before fireworks. All traffic around the main corridors of Disneyland are re-routed prior to fireworks, so your usual route might not work. 

Mickey’s Mix Magic (Early 2024)

In 2024, Mickey’s Mix Magic will show January 8 – March 21 and April 15 – 25.  Mickey’s Mix Magic (originally in collaboration with “Get Your Ears On”).  

The high energy night time experience at Disneyland Park, Mickey’s Mix Magic features a high-energy projection show with fireworks on select nights. You’ll hear favorite Disney songs like Frozen’s “Let It Go” and the all-Spanish version of “Un Poco Loco” from Coco and many more. 

 

 

Mickey’s Mix Magic fireworks can be seen from various locations we’ll share below but projections are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”
• Secret spot without all the distractions? Try this.

Does Mickey’s Mix Magic have fireworks? While Mickey’s Mix Magic runs every night, fireworks are limited to weekend nights and major holidays or breaks.

What time is Mickey’s Mix Magic? Most nights at 9:00 pm. Check the Disneyland app for official times. 

Do I need to save spots to Mickey’s Mix Magic? It’s best to find your spot for Mickey’s Mix Magic early on nights when they include fireworks. For lower crowds, I suggest Rivers of America, especially when Fantasmic is not running which significantly clears that area.

On fireworks night, find your favorite area about an 30 minutes before the show. On nights featuring music and projections, you can often find a spot to enjoy the view about 10 minutes before.

The key here is actually getting to your desired spot before fireworks. All traffic around the main corridors of Disneyland are re-routed prior to fireworks, so your usual route might not work. 

Wondrous Journeys (Spring 2024)

“Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland Park will return March 22 – April 14, 2024 after what we through was a final farewell  August 31, 2023. This fan favorite features nods to all 60 Walt Disney Animation Studios films to date, taking viewers on a journey filled with artistry, music, storytelling and heart. All of this was part of the 100 Years of Wonder Celebration throughout the entire Walt Disney Company.

Wondrous Journeys fireworks and projections can be seen from various locations we’ll share below but projections are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”

Does Wondrous Journeys have fireworks? While Wondrous Journeys runs every night, fireworks are limited to weekend nights and major holidays or breaks.

 

 

What time is Wondrous Journeys? Most nights at 9:00 or 9:30 PM. Check the Disneyland app for official times. 

Do I need to save spots to watch Wondrous Journeys? It’s best to find your spot for Wondrous Journeys early on nights when they include fireworks. For lower crowds, I suggest Rivers of America, especially when Fantasmic is not running which significantly clears that area.

On fireworks night, find your favorite area about an hour or more before the show. On nights featuring music and projections, you can often find a spot to enjoy the view about 15 minutes before.

The key here is actually getting to your desired spot before fireworks. All traffic around the main corridors of Disneyland are re-routed prior to fireworks, so your usual route might not work. 

Which Disney films will be depicted in Wondrous Journeys? Here are just a few Disney has mentioned get the excitement rolling:

• Encanto
• Hercules
• The Princess and the Frog
• Peter Pan
• Frozen
• Treasure Planet
• Big Hero 6
• Moana

It will also feature songs and stories from those films AND an all new song, “It’s Wondrous.” What a gift the Disney Imagineers and so many are giving to us for this celebration.

Halloween Screams (Halloween Time)

Halloween Screams fireworks is on display during August, September and October. Fireworks run Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 pm at Disneyland Park. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night the show features music and projections, but no fireworks. 

 

 

Halloween Scream fireworks and projections can be seen from various locations but are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”
• Secret spot without all the distractions? Try this.

Believe in Holiday Magic (Holiday Season)

The holidays at Disneyland run November through the first week of January. It’s one of my favorite times of year to visit Disneyland Resort. 

 

 

During the holidays you can see snow falling throughout the resort, taste test delicious desserts, and of course watch the nightly fireworks display. I love to catch the outside Lighting of “it’s a small world” holiday, then hang around that area for dinner and watch the fireworks later. 

 

 

Believe in Holiday Magic fireworks can be seen from various locations we’ll share below, but projections are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”
• Secret spot without all the distractions? Try this.

Does Disneyland have fireworks during Christmas? Yes, mostly every night during the holiday season, weather permitting. 

What time are holiday fireworks? Most nights at 9:30 pm. Check the Disneyland app for official times. 

Do I need to save spots Believe in Holiday Magic fireworks? Yes, see our time frames listed for each spot below and add about 30 minutes during the week between Christmas and New Years. For lower crowds, I suggest Rivers of America, especially when Fantasmic is not running which significantly clears that area.

On fireworks night, find your favorite area about an 60-90 minutes before the show. On nights featuring music and projections, you can often find a spot to enjoy the view about 30 minutes before.

Disneyland Forever Fireworks 

Disneyland Forever fireworks  is my favorite fireworks show of every one offered at Disneyland. 

Disneyland Forever fireworks can be seen from various locations we’ll share below but projections are best viewed at the following locations:

• Main Street, U.S.A.
• Rivers of America
• Façade of “it’s a small world”

What time is Disneyland Forever fireworks? Most nights at 9:30 pm. Check the Disneyland app for official times. 

Do I need to save spots for Disneyland Forever fireworks? It’s best to find your spot for early on for fireworks. For lower crowds, I suggest Rivers of America, especially when Fantasmic is not running which significantly clears that area. On fireworks night, find your favorite area about an 60-90 minutes before the show.

Best Spots for Disneyland Fireworks 

The best Disneyland fireworks spot depends on your group your priorities and even when you’re visiting Disneyland Resort. This is where I break down the main areas for Disneyland fireworks viewing including their pros and cons. 

Disneyland Fireworks on Batuu

The spot to see fireworks is at the Galaxy’s Edge! Visitors to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge can get an amazing view of fireworks over the Millennium Falcon at night. This will be especially exciting during season of the force this spring.

 

 

Now featuring a special musical score “Fire of the Rising Moons” by John Williams!

Disneyland Fireworks from Adventureland Treehouse

This doesn’t always work, but if Fantasmic isn’t on the schedule and you need a secluded spot, this might be right for you.

Disneyland Fireworks Sleeping Beauty Castle

Sleeping Beauty Castle is the focal point of Disneyland Park. After you walk through those gates it’s one of the most anticipated sights for most Disneyland vacations. It’s no wonder so many people want to view fireworks from this location. 

 

 

What you’ll see:  Projections on the castle and fireworks shooting high above your head. 

Where to stand: As close to the center of Sleeping beauty Castle as possible, near the drawbridge. Stay away from trees and other tall objects that might block your view. Note: the benches you see in the above photo are reserved seating for VIP guests. Keep reading if you’re looking for VIP spots that the public can access. 

Time commitment:  Up to three hours or more. Many people stake out benches and curbing near this area three or more hours before the fireworks are set to display. 

What’s nearby: Snacks and drinks at vending carts. Closest bathrooms are near Plaza Inn on Tomorrowland side, near Alice in Wonderland on Fantasyland side, across from Enchanted Tiki Room on Adventureland side. 

Cons: Since you’re so close to where the fireworks are deployed, it’s actually a difficult spot to see the fireworks. You’re constantly moving your head back and forth between the projections and the fireworks and you can’t really take in both, unless you’re a bit farther back. This spot will also require the most time commitment and you will be a packed in like sardines with other guests looking for the best fireworks spot. 

Exit Disneyland: Turn around a head right down Main Street to exit Disneyland from this fireworks viewing location. 

Disneyland Fireworks Main Street, U.S.A.

This is one of my favorite locations to view Disneyland fireworks because I feel like you get to embrace the entire experience. You’re situated on the classic Main Street, U.S.A., with a castle in the distance and you’ll be able to take it all in.

It’s a great spot to see the fireworks and the projections, as well as any Disney character that might be flying over the castle (Tinker Bell, Buzz Lightyear and the Up house have all taken a turn during select shows).

 

 

What you’ll see:  Projections on the castle, Main Street facade and fireworks shooting over Sleeping Beauty Castle. 

Where to stand: Anywhere along Main Street tends to be a good spot. If you plan to stay later try to get closer to the castle, but if you plan to leave, I suggest going closer to the Emporium store on Main Street. 

Time commitment:  30 minutes or so. Many people wait on the curbs in this area, but everyone will be required to stand during the actual fireworks presentation. It’s easy to get a walk up spot at the last minute, but I say 30 minutes because you’re going to need time to navigate your way through Disneyland to get to Main Street on time. 

What’s nearby: Snacks and drinks on Main Street. Closest bathrooms are behind Carnation Cafe on Main Street. 

Cons: since you’re so close to where the fireworks are deployed, it’s actually a difficult spot to see the fireworks. You’re constantly moving your head back and forth between the projections and the fireworks and you can’t really take in both, unless you’re a bit farther back. This spot will also require the most time commitment and you will be a packed in like sardines with other guests looking for the best fireworks spot. 

Exit Disneyland: Turn around a head right down Main Street to exit Disneyland from this fireworks viewing location. 

Disneyland Fireworks Rivers of America

This is the best spot to view fireworks if you’re watching Fantasmic before the show. It’s even better if you have reserved viewing for Fantasmic. You’re encouraged to stay in this spot because the fireworks start right after. 

 

 

What you’ll see:  Projections on the water screen over Rivers of America and fireworks shooting slightly to the right. 

Where to stand: Anywhere along Rivers of America tends to be a good spot.

Time commitment:  30 minutes or so. Many people viewing in this area will remain in their spots following Fantasmic. It’s also easy to get a walk up spot at the last minute. I suggest 30 minutes because you’re going to need time to navigate your way here if you’re not already nearby.

What’s nearby: Snacks and drinks at vending carts in New Orleans Square. Closest bathrooms are behind Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square. 

Cons: If you plan to leave Disneyland right after the fireworks, this spot is going to take a little more time to exit afterwards.

Exit Disneyland: Follow the masses toward Main Street. There will be one way traffic patterns to help you exit quickly. If you want to stop and do some shopping on Main Street, be sure to listen to the cast members directions–on super crowded days they utilize an overflow exit that routes you parallel/behind Main Street and won’t allow you to stop for shopping. You’ll have the option to exit or go to Main Street, so listen to those cast members. 

Disneyland Fireworks “it’s a small world”

I love watching fireworks in this location because the projections are so crisp and clean. It’s as if they were made to be displayed on “it’s a small world.”

 

 

What you’ll see:  Projections on “it’s a small world” and fireworks shooting slightly to the left. 

Where to stand: Anywhere in front of “it’s a small world” even if you’re not super close. 

Time commitment:  30 minutes or so, just enough time to get back into this remote corner of Disneyland. 

What’s nearby: Closest bathrooms are near Alice in Wonderland and near Mickey and the Magical Map.

Cons: If you plan to leave Disneyland right after the fireworks, this spot is going to take a little more time to exit afterwards. It’s best to wait 10 minutes for more crowds to clear out. 

Exit Disneyland: Follow the masses toward Main Street. There will be one way traffic patterns to help you exit quickly. 

Disneyland Fireworks Reserved Spots

If you’re looking for a fireworks experience that’s super laid-back, but also appeals to that VIP status, you need a reserved spot at Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace now available for Wondrous Journeys!

This reservation only experience puts you high above Disneyland crowds with an exclusive experience only Disneyland can provide.

 

Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace

The first thing you need to know—this experience is the ultimate Disneyland escape, and fireworks are not guaranteed. In fact, on the night I went to Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace twice and one time the fireworks were canceled.

 

 

There’s so much more to this experience that I felt it was worth every penny and I would totally do it again fireworks or no fireworks. 

Must know details:

• Make reservation 60 days in advance here for a one of kind treat.
• Cost starts at $89 per person. Tax included; no charge for children under 3. 
• Separate valid Disneyland Park admission is required and not included in the price of this event.

Check-in process:

Check-in begins at your reservation time near Galactic Grill Window 1. Look for a small line forming against the building and/or a sign designating check in a a podium. 

 

 

I suggest arriving just a few minutes before your reservation time. While people do form a line, there are often Cast Members there making sure you’re here at the right time. If you reservation time is early enough you may get to choose your seating accommodations. There are some barstool height tables and other areas to lounge.

Not matter where you’re seated for your meal, there’s plenty of space to wander and move during fireworks so you can get the best view possible.

Your space at Skyline Terrace:

Access to the lounge is open from check in time until 10:00 PM. Make use of it! Don’t show up five minutes before the fireworks–they could be canceled and you’d miss out on all this VIP time. There’s plenty to eat, drink and do while you’re up there, so enjoy every minute.

 

 

They also have charging ports at your table, blankets to use and games to play. Our family really loved the time set apart to just chill, look over Tomorrowland and play some games while chatting. 

What you’ll see: 

• fireworks shooting above Tomorrowland, weather permitting with accompanying music.
• You may also get a visit from a Disney character, although it’s not guaranteed.

 

Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace Experience

My second visit was during Disney100. It was the perfect spot to get away from the crowds and still enjoy fireworks. We ordered off the special menu and the regular menu. All drinks were unlimited once on site. 

 

 

Bring your food to your table from Galactic Grill and choose from a selection of drinks including coffee, soda, hot cocoa, tea and water. Take a couple of drinks and bring them back to your table to enjoy. After we were done eating we went on a few Tomorrowland rides. 

Activities include on-site games like Connect Four and Cast Member interaction. We played Disney trivia and hangman with an awesome Cast Member and even streamed one live on my Disneyland with Kids Facebook group. 

 

 

You’ll also get blankets to snuggle up, access to chargers to keep your phone fully charged. At the end of the night, we were told we could stock up on as many drinks as we’d like. Diet Coke for days, lol!

When the fireworks were done we rode Space Mountain and then took the Monorail from Tomorrowland back to the Disneyland Hotel. It was the perfect ending to our day.

Disneyland Fireworks Secret Spots

My main “secret spot” you enjoy your favorite attractions. Of course you won’t get the entire show our experience but it gives you’ve just enough to feel like you’ve done it and you’re not taking any time out of your day to save spots. Here are my top attractions to ride and view fireworks:

• Astro Orbitor
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Mad Tea Party
• Matterhorn Bobsleds
• Radiator Springs Racers

Disneyland Fireworks from Your Hotel

Don’t pay to upgrade your room to a fireworks view (unless you’re at a Disney hotel or want to have kids in pajamas and in bed during fireworks). Many off-site hotels are well within view of Disneyland fireworks and all you need to do is step outside to enjoy them. Ask your hotel at check in for the best place to watch from your hotel.

 

Disneyland Fireworks Downtown Disney

You can absolutely view fireworks from Downtown Disney, but the buildings sometimes block your view. It’s best to go more toward the Disneyland maingate and sit down in the Esplanade. Yes, from here you can actually score a seat on the ground or on a bench. Arrive a few minutes before the fireworks are set to go off and you’re good to go. 

 

Disneyland Fireworks Bonus Tips

You can’t see Disneyland fireworks without getting discount tickets. Grab yours from my ticket partner here. 

I want to see World of Color, can I make it in time after fireworks? Yes, make sure you’re viewing from Main Street U.S.A., closer to the exit the better. 

I want to see Fantasmic, can I make it to fireworks after the show? Yes, remain in your Fantasmic spot for fireworks viewing following the show. 

What’s the quickest way to exit Disneyland after fireworks? Head toward Main Street and follow one-way traffic patterns set by Cast Members. 

Let me help you plan your Disneyland vacation including fireworks viewing, plus leave your comments and questions below.