Magic Kingdom Fireworks- Wheelchair & Sensory Tips
One of the highlights of a Disney trip is ending your day with the sights and sounds of an immersive fireworks show at Magic Kingdom!
Currently, You can see the newest show, Enchantment, when the sun goes down. The time the show begins varies based on the time of year and when it gets dark so check your app or Times Guide for start time.
The spectacle has music, projections on the front of Cinderella’s Castle, and of course the pyrotechnics! You’ll even see a surprise stunt on clear nights if you’re watching from the hub or Main Street.
Loud noises, flashing lights, crowds of people… sounds like many obstacles for special needs kiddos, but perhaps they’re obstacles that can be overcame.
Here’s some tips for experiencing the fireworks display with a disabled family member.
Wheelchair Viewing:
If you are a wheelchair user, you may wonder how you’ll be able to see the projections over the sea of standing people in your way. Disney had a first come, first serve designated area for wheelchair users that makes viewing perfect from a seated position.
You’ll find this area on the left side of the hub, directly in front of the VIP grass area located in front of Casey’s Corner. Notice the fountain in the photo below. It is a good visual landmark for where to find the reserved wheelchair viewing area or ask a cast member of course.
A semi large area is roped off right behind the fountain and managed by cast members. There’s only one entrance to the viewing area which is found on the far left side of the reserved space.
Because it has limited availability I highly suggest arriving at least an hour before showtime to claim a spot.
You approach the cast member approving admittance and request to enter. You do need the wheelchair user with you as this is not a DAS covered attraction.
Policy states one guest may accompany the wheelchair user but I’ve found this is at the discretion of the posted cast member. On our last trip they allowed our family to stay together.
Another cast member will guide you to a location within the viewing area with adequate space between parties. With increased admission, that space may dwindle.
Pro Tip:
Mobile order a late dinner or treats from Casey’s Corner and have one person in your party go pick it up.
We call the cast member at the viewing entrance a bouncer because they are very strict with allowing people in the area. That is totally a good thing! We appreciate the high regard yielded to this area to preserve the space for those in need. My point is, be sure you let them know you’re leaving and will return each time you head to the restroom or otherwise so you don’t get stuck on “the outside”.
Tips for Sensory Needs:
Bring noise canceling headphones to soften the boom.
Choose a less crowded viewing location like near the Carousel behind the castle.
Bring a comfort item or (on cool nights) a small weighted blanket.
Skip the show and ride all the rides with a much shorter line.
(CROWDS LEAVING FOLLOWING FIREWORKS- NOVEMBER 2021)
Overall Tips for Night Shows:
Rain happens even at the most magical place on earth. The show will go on *mostly with a light rain but will be canceled for moderate+ rain or any lightning activity. Bring a poncho or purchase one ahead of time so you are prepared. Once you’re in your viewing spot, you don’t want to have to fight the crowds to get to a store.
If you have space, pack a towel. I recommend this Norwex option because it dries quickly and self cleans! If you want an excellent option you’ll use for Disney and at home, this beach towel option folds up super small and is perfect for sitting on while waiting or drying off wet areas, wheelchairs, or bodies (and it is self cleaning too). Having a way to mark your space or sit down while eating or waiting is great. If large enough, it even can serve as warmth on cool nights.
Keep your cooling options close by in the hot season— fans, cooling towels, etc. When thousands of people are packed in, the temperature goes up!
Have a plan and map out a path to the nearest bathroom and to the exit if the sudden need to leave arises. Look for a blue umbrella if you have zero clue what to do— these are guest relations locations. There’s one on the corner of Main St that I recall but your My Disney Experience app can show you as well.
Lower expectations. Not because things are not going to be great, but because kids are kids and unexpected emotions and needs are bound to happen.
Nighttime spectaculars are always on our itinerary. We have had meltdowns, tears, excitement, fun, bathroom emergencies and everything in between occur during the shows. It’s a fantastic part of our trips but it is not THE trip. So be sure to schedule the shows and then see how it goes… I hope it’s a magical, memorable experience for your family.