Epcot’s nighttime spectacular, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth will soon be ending. Disney announced a few months ago that it will close sometime in the second half of 2019. The show is planned to end after the 2019 Summer season. I have loved this fireworks show since the first time I saw it waaaayyyy back in 1999. IllumiNations has been the highlight of my Walt Disney World experience since it debuted in October 1999 as part of the Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration. I listen to the soundtrack often, and for me, my trip to Epcot isn’t complete unless I get to see this incredible show. It is my favorite of all of the fireworks shows that I’ve seen (Including the AMAZING Disney Dreams at Disneyland Paris). I’m truly going to miss Illuminations when it goes away.
A description of the show from the official Walt Disney World site:
Witness the Story of Earth:
Gather around World Showcase Lagoon to watch Earth’s fiery birth portrayed through dramatic eruptions of fireworks and towering 60-foot flames. As the volcanic effects subside, a giant globe glides peacefully across the waters.
Let your imagination soar as the surface of the 350,000 pound Earth Globe springs to life with light, revealing the joyful history of humanity and the remarkable achievements of our time.
In the spectacular finale, a hopeful future is foretold in a pageantry of stirring light and sound–including fireworks and an epic display of dazzling, state-of-the-art, energy-efficient lasers!
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot tells the story of our planet in 3 unforgettable acts.
Act 1: Chaos — Bear witness to the explosion at the dawn of time that brings about the creation of Earth, where you are invited to observe the Inferno Barge, a liquid-propane mechanism launching balls of fire 60 feet into the air.
Act 2: Order — Behold the glowing Earth Globe as it glides peacefully to the center of the lagoon, illuminated with—and celebrating—the famous faces and achievements of our time.
Act 3: Meaning — During this final act, the Earth Globe blossoms to reveal a torch and the glow of a thousand fireworks and laserlights that fill the night sky in a shimmering kaleidoscope of color and sound, propelling us into the future.
And, as Martin Short would say in Epcot’s “O, Canada”…now would be a great place for a song!
“Promise” which plays immediately after the fireworks show, is one of my favorite songs.
Fastpasses are available to see Illuminations, but aren’t required, there are many places to see the show around the World Showcase Lagoon. BUT, to get a great view, FastPass will get you in a wonderful location.
There is also a Dining Package available:
A Feast for the Senses
Where is your favorite spot to view Illuminations? I’ve viewed from all over the park, from a private dessert party near the UK pavillion, to a special performance during a Disneyana convention at the entrance to the World Showcase, and at most countries around the World Showcase Lagoon. My absolute favorite spot? Japan. I usually stand between the Torii gate on my left and the bushes on my right. It’s an incredible viewing spot.
The end of the IllumiNations show is part of the multi-year transformation of Epcot, which will include new experiences that will excite guests while keeping true to the original vision of the park.
Disney officials have revealed that a new nighttime fireworks spectacular, that will replace Illuminations, joins several previously announced experiences coming to Epcot, including a Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster in Future World, a Ratatouille attraction in World Showcase and a new table-service restaurant themed to outer space in Future World.
Have you made plans to see Illuminations one last time? It’s still not too late too book for Spring or Summer! There are rooms available, and the last time I looked, the Free Dining promotion still had availability! Note: The Free Dining promotion must be booked BEFORE Feb. 15, 2019. Message me and let’s begin planning kenneth@moderntravelpros.com
TTFN!
Cleared For Take-Off! 