We had an enquiry from the guests due to stay at our villa during the 4th July celebrations asking where we thought would be the best place to watch the fireworks.
Never having been to Orlando at this time of year we emailed guests that had stayed at our villa in July in previous years and were inundated with replies. Like us I think many of them had got the “Florida Bug” and just loved talking about anything Florida! They even sent experiences of other Florida tourists that they encountered back home.
The majority of replies that we had suggested watching the Wishes firework display at Magic Kingdom. Epcot was second choice with mentions also for Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney.
Most of those who watched the Magic Kingdom fireworks watched from within the park itself. One family loved watching it by standing near the Ice Cream parlour in Main Street (eating ice-creams of course) while another suggested standing by the Dumbo ride to get a great view. Yet another family reckoned that the view from the bridge at Tomorrowland could not be bettered.
Friends of one of our guests suggested the best place to watch Wishes from was the beach at one of the MK resorts, I presume they had gone there for a meal.
The Contemporary Resort California Grill also got a mention and I notice that this year they are holding a 4th July Celebration with an evening of entertainment where guests are invited to enjoy a “dine around” experience with multiple food and wine stations and a great view of Wishes Fireworks.
One guest who had visited Epcot told us that after the usual firework display the lighting was turned onto America where there was red white and blue firework display whilst the Star Spangled Banner was sung. I must admit I personally would love to have seen this but could not promise that I wouldn’t cry!
Another family decided to go to Hollywood Studios as everyone else they had spoken to appeared to be going to Magic Kingdom. How right they were, they managed to walk straight onto most of the rides and the longest wait they had was ten minutes. They watched the fireworks from the area in front of Mickey’s hat from where, although crowded, they still managed to sit on the ground and their view was not obstructed.
A party of adults had a great time at Downtown Disney Pleasure Island. They went last year when celebrations were on 2nd – 4th July with a Fourth of July Blast, a street party throughout the island and live bands as well as a DJ. Late night fireworks could be seen throughout the entertainment district.
I said we had never been on 4th July before but after reading all the great reports I think it will not be too long before we ensure a holiday in the future includes this date.