"When is Fantasmic coming back to Walt Disney World?"
The question has been on every Disney fan’s lips for the past few years.
This dazzling show, featuring characters from all of the most-loved Disney stories - complete with water displays, laser light shows and fireworks - was put on hiatus during the pandemic along with with a host of other popular parades and events. But now, for what feels like the first time in forever, fans can look forward to its long-awaited return.
Back on stage in
Disney's Hollywood Studios, Mickey’s adventures in the fight between good and evil are bigger and better than ever. Prepare to have your Disney dreams taken in a whole new direction as you enter the mind of Mr Mouse himself.
Here’s a guide to how, when and where to see Fantasmic - plus all the information you need to ensure a fairytale Florida holiday.
What is Fantasmic at Walt Disney World?
Although die-hard fans of the House of Mouse may know Fantasmic inside out, we can help bring you up to speed. Even if you have never watched a Disney parade or performance, read on.
Fantasmic is one of Disney World’s most popular and iconic musicals, having first opened in October 1998. The incredible lagoon, light show and even pyrotechnics bring the performance to life, making it the perfect spectacle for both kids and adults alike.
In the magical open-air story, Mickey imagines himself as a magician’s apprentice with mystical powers. During his adventure, he’ll come up against some of Disney’s most wicked villains, from fire-breathing dragons to the cunning Maleficent. Mickey is helped in his battle by characters from the likes of Frozen, The Lion King and The Little Mermaid - but you’ll need to watch to find out if he’s triumphant!
Are Parades Back at Walt Disney World?
Although the Covid-19 pandemic led to lots of changes at Disney World, these were only temporary and over the past year or so, the parks have reintroduced their full programme events. Fantasmic was the final readdition in their hotly anticipated annual calendar of parades, shows and entertainment.
Other parades that were reintroduced last year include the family-friendly Disney Festival of Fantasy and Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.
When is Fantasmic Coming Back to Walt Disney World?
Now that you’re familiar with the show and have added it to your list of unmissable things to see, let’s answer the real question: is Fantasmic back at Disney World?
We can answer with a resounding yes! That’s right, the return of Fantasmic has already happened. Announced by Walt Disney in October last year, the show was re-launched in November 2022. The opening performances were widely lauded and the show is set to continue for the foreseeable future.
The new show brings back all of the sensational performances, light tricks and waterworks that you know and love, with the addition of a brand new show sequence featuring characters from Moana, Frozen 2 and Pocahontas.
Where and What Time is Fantasmic at Disney World?
Let’s get down to the details so you can start planning your trip to Fantasmic. The show is on every day of the week on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood Studios. The show can start as early as 8pm or as late as 9:30pm and lasts for around 30 minutes which is ideal for maximising time, but
check the start time online in advance.
And remember, the late showtime means you can fill your day and early evening with rides, events and the plentiful attractions in the park before catching the performance, still allowing kids of almost any age to enjoy it before bedtime. It also allows plenty of time to enjoy dinner before Fantasmic, or better yet, opt for a VIP Fantasmic Dining Package to secure the best seats in the house and Disney’s most delicious food - more about that below.
Dining Packages at Fantasmic!
If you’re set on securing the best seats for Fantasmic, booking a dining package might be perfect for you. The Fantasmic Dining Packages include a two-course meal or buffet at some of the park’s best restaurants, such as the 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Sci-Fi Dine In Theatre Restaurant and Hollywood & Vine - which also has meet & greet meals with Mickey & Minnie for kids.
After dinner, you’ll get guaranteed seating in a reserved area of the Fantasmic stadium, which is in the centre of the amphitheatre, offering the best views of the show. Delicious Disney dining combined with promised seats at Fantasmic makes it one of the best ways to see the show.
What to Know Before Going to Fantasmic at Disney World
As we want you to have the ultimate Fantasmic experience on a dream Florida holiday, here are a few extra tips and tricks for seeing the show...
Firstly, a reminder that Fantasmic features a variety of scenes with Disney villains, which might be scary for young kids, so gauge their reaction to other park attractions before booking the show, as there are plenty of amazing alternatives for smaller children.
Fantasmic is also held in one of Disney’s largest performance arenas, which contains a lagoon and can hold up to 11,000 people - you may be tempted to make a beeline for the front, just know you're likely to get quite wet! Dining packages have access to the middle sections, which offer the best views, or, simply try to get in line early to snag great seats.
Now that you have the ultimate low-down on the return of Disney World’s most incredible show, you’re ready to book a Fantasmic adventure to Disney! Check out our award-winning Walt Disney World holidays for 2024 & 2025 here. 
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