4th of July at Disney

4^th of July at Disneyland

 Last year we choose to spend the 4^th of July at Disneyland. We had read for years how wonderful the fireworks were at Disneyland and decided we just had to do it. So let me share my experience so you can see if it is something you want to do.

Besides the Disneyland fireworks there is Magic, Memories and You and Fantasmic at Disneyland. Over at Disney California Adventure there is World of Color and the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Last year three of the nighttime shows either were totally special for the holiday or had an added segment for the holiday. The Fireworks is a complete show that salutes America. Magic, Memories and You had an added segment that saluted America as did World of Color. Fantasmic is the usual show and ElecTronica was at DCA and was the normal show.

Unless you are willing to take just any viewing spot at Fantasmic or have someone waiting holding a spot for the second show you cannot see both the Fireworks and Fantasmic. You may be able to see a late showing of World of Color if you rush from the fireworks but again you will not be assured a prime viewing spot. This is true any day but even more so on July 4^th.

To start off Disneyland will be BUSY! If you want one of the coveted spots in front of the castle to view the fireworks I suggest you get there early and plan to spend the day sitting there holding your spot. We chose to sit down at 12:30 for the 9:30 fireworks! Being a little person I know if I don’t get a certain spot I will not be able to see the fireworks as all. If you are less picky or taller you can come to the front of the castle between 5-6pm. You will not have your pick of spots but you may still get a spot in front of the castle.

Don’t expect to do a lot of rides as the lines will be long and Fastpasses will go quickly. Even lines for food and the restroom will be long. Pack your patience and if you plan on holding a spot for one of the evening shows then bring something to do. I usually bring a book, drawing pad, craft supplies for a small craft and my camera. We take turns waiting. The larger the group the better. One or two people hold the spot while others go on a ride, get food, shop or take care of personal needs such as heading to first aide for ice packs. Just make it fair and rotate who holds the spots.

I mentioned Ice Packs. It can be very hot at Disneyland. Many of the prime viewing spots for the nighttime shows do not have shade during the day so you are exposed to direct sun. You can go to first aide and get free ice packs if you get overheated. You can also get a cold drink of water from the water fountain inside. This is the only place where you can get cold water from a water fountain. You may want to consider bringing an umbrella to provide yourself with some portable shade.

Now is it worth it to go on such a crazy crowded day? Well I have done it once and I say YES IF! Yes it is worth it if you have an Annual Pass and don’t care if you get on any rides. It is worth it if what is important to you is celebrating the 4^th of July watching one of the best fireworks displays in the nation (ranked as one of the top 10 nationwide). Since I am an Annual Passholder and seeing some of the best fireworks is special to me it is worth if to me.

Here is my video of last years fireworks. Judge for yourself if it is worth the wait.