Ultimate Guide to an Amazing Fantasmic! Experience at Disneyland

Did you ever have one of those dreams—the ones where all kinds of random bits of your life get mixed up together? The script for Fantasmic!—starring Mickey Mouse—is a bit like that. Scenes are borrowed from Disney films and brought to life with live actors, water effects, fire, boats, and rafts.

It all starts when sorcerer’s apprentice Mickey Mouse goes to sleep. His overwrought dream conjures up pink elephants, enormous puppets, princesses, and more. The fantasies reach their apex when a 45-foot-tall dragon five times Mickey’s size appears. As the fire-breathing monster meets its end, the show also ends with fireworks.

Fantasmic! at Disneyland

How often Fantasmic! happens depends on the season. It may run twice a night during the busy summer season; however, at other times of the year, it may only be available on weekends.

For even more enjoyment while watching, you can purchase glowing mouse ears that change colors to complement the show and light up as Mickey faces off against the Evil Queen, along with many other products found at Disney gift shops.

What’s New

The new show utilizes video mapping technology to bring a fresh perspective to the mist screens and fireworks, making it brighter and more modern, similar to its sister show World of Color in California Adventure. Most casual viewers will notice few changes; nevertheless, hardcore fans may react differently, especially with the replacement of Peter Pan and his friends by Jack Sparrow and crew on the Sailing Ship Columbia. However, the exciting new flying carpet special effect might balance out this transition.

What You Need to Know

• Rating: ★★★★
• Location: Rivers of America
• Show Time: Approximately 25 minutes. You can find the current schedule by checking the Show Times Guides at the entrance.
• Recommended for: The show is fun for everyone; however, if you must decide between Fantasmic and the fireworks, it’s advisable to go for the fireworks.
• Fun Factor: Moderate
• Wait Factor: Stay tuned for updates.
• Seating: Viewers stand around the Rivers of America to enjoy the performance.

How to Have More Fun

Several years ago, it was almost impossible to secure a good viewing spot for this show unless you were willing to arrive hours early. Many times, this involved competing with seasoned pass holders who were determined to wait as long as needed.

Viewing Options

To facilitate a smoother experience and give everyone an equal opportunity, it is now essential to obtain a FASTPASS for entry into the reserved viewing area. A Fantasmic FASTPASS will not prevent you from acquiring a pass for rides.

FASTPASSes become available from machines at Frontier Landing near the Mark Twain Riverboat immediately after the park opens.

As long as they do not run out, you can secure them up to one hour before showtime. Each pass comes with a designated showtime. For those wishing to view the first show, it is recommended to go there promptly upon arriving at the park.

If you miss out on a FASTPASS, an area that doesn’t require tickets is available on a first-come, first-served basis. On evenings featuring two shows, it may be possible to snag a good viewing spot by moving quickly into place as soon as the first show concludes; however, be prepared to assert yourself and be proactive to make this work effectively.

Additionally, you can acquire a “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS when you purchase a dining package at Blue Bayou Restaurant, River Belle Terrace, or an on-the-go meal from the Hungry Bear Restaurant.

Accessibility

Guests may remain in their wheelchair or Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) during Fantasmic! Audio Descriptions and Handheld Captioning are also available.

Fun Facts

Fantasmic! originated at Disneyland in 1992 to revitalize the space in front of Rivers of America. Walt Disney Creative Entertainment conceptualized this nighttime spectacular involving water and fireworks.

The show first opened just a few days prior to the riots that erupted following the acquittal of the Los Angeles police officers involved in the Rodney King beating. Consequently, promotional materials featuring the tagline “Be Here When the Night Ignites” quickly vanished from public view.