Disneyland park guests will be able to experience the popular nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” with new viewing options beginning December 12. Similar to the options for “World of Color” at Disney California Adventure park, “Fantasmic!” will feature reserved and stand-by viewing as well as several all-new dining packages. This new reserved viewing will give guests more time to enjoy other entertainment and attractions across the Disneyland Resort.
Beginning December 12, a “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS will be required to gain access to the show’s reserved viewing space. Beginning at Disneyland park opening, “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS distribution will take place along Big Thunder Trail in Frontierland. They will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until one hour prior to show time or while supplies last, whichever comes first. Each “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS will indicate the assigned showtime, suggested return time and assigned viewing section. Also, a non-ticketed area will be available in the “Fantasmic!” viewing area each night for limited stand-by viewing on a first-come, first-served basis.
Guests will also have the option to receive a “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS with the purchase of new “Fantasmic!” dining packages, including dinner at Blue Bayou Restaurant, special table-service seating at River Belle Terrace, a new dessert party at Hungry Bear Restaurant, on-the-go options and more. Check out all of the new “Fantasmic!” dining packages here.
Reservations for December 12 and beyond will be available for booking beginning November 12. Space is limited for these experiences, so advance reservations are recommended online at disneyland.com or by calling 714-781-DINE (714-781-3463).
Comments
Is there a map of where each color is located?
Where will the fast passes be distributed?
I read through all the comments and answers and realized the answer is the Fantasmic reserved areas will be for standing. While we love the World of Color show, we have stopped attending with our grandparents, as we were afraid to take them and find out the sitting area was not available — especially during the prime holiday season. And we all loved Olaf as the narrator of the WOC holiday show.
What can Disney do to accommodate all members of families who love all things Disney? Many thanks and Happy Holidays!
We have always been liked being able to pay for a guaranteed seating area, and happy to pay, as we have elderly grandparents, who would not necessarily qualify for the handicap area, but are very grateful to have a seat for the show. I may have missed the answer, but are there areas we can still reserve for guaranteed seating? Mahalo nui loa.
So, are the existing standing areas still going to be standing areas and not part of the fastpass system? I watch Fantasmic! just to the right of the center tower where everyone in front of me has to sit and me and everyone behind me stands. The walkway to the center tower and directors and VIPs are in front of where I usually stand to watch Fantasimc! This area still ok or does it meet this new system?
Thanks,
Ron
Hi – I read on another blog post that the Blue Bayou dining package includes a “souvenir Fantasmic cushion to sit on during the show.” Is that true? I do not see that mentioned in the details on the Disneyland web pages. Thanks!
We usually spend the money for the dessert seating, as our party usually has several older individuals who cannot stand for long periods,or sit on the ground. We also have a person who cannot have gluten or dairy, who usually just eats everyone’s fruit out of the dessert boxes, and is happy.
Which package do we need to book to make sure that we are in chairs, and with suitable food, and for the first showing so we can stay for the fireworks? It’s very vague in your summary.
LJ – Chairs will not be provided for any of the viewing areas. However, we will do our best to accommodate guests with special needs on an individual basis.
For the dining options, be sure to inform the cast member of your dietary needs when you book your reservation, and the request will be noted on your reservation. Once you arrive at the restaurant, please inform the server, chef or manager on duty.
Will we have the option to choose which Fantasmic show time we want a fastpass for?
“Fantasmic!” FASTPASS will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning with the first show. Once all tickets for the first show have been distributed, FASTPASS distribution for the second show will begin.
Hi Erin,
I have been eagerly counting down the days to make our December 13 reservation. I am bummed and nervous about this new change.
We have been big fans of the preferred seating — honestly we stopped accepting the dessert tray. We were happy to pay for the seats.
Can you answer a few questions?
1. Will this impact our ability to stay and watch the fireworks after the first show?
2. The Blue Bayou package is considerably more expensive than the other options. Will this ensure a better viewing area?
Thanks for your reply!
Kecia – Since the viewing area will need to be cleared prior to each show, you may need to plan for an alternate location to watch the fireworks. As far as “better” viewing, that is subjective when it comes to “Fantasmic!” Similar to “World of Color,” the viewing area will be set up to provide optimal viewing for all guests. River-front viewing will be available for all three options (dining packages, FASTPASS and stand-by), however a portion of the centrally located sections will likely be reserved for guests with Blue Bayou Restaurant and River Belle Terrace dining packages.
How far in advance can you make reservations? Thanks
Guests may make reservations starting November 12. After that, reservations can be made up to 60 days prior to your visit.
Quick questions. What will be on the menu for the Blue Bayou 3 course meal? Will we be able to see that menu when we can start making reservations?
Casey – Menu information will be available when reservations open on November 12.
What will be available for wheelchair viewing? And will that need a special FASTPASS? Planning a trip soon and have one family member in a wheelchair….nothing worse than waiting for hours and then find out someone will be standing right in front of you and blocking your view.
Thanks!
Arla Marie – All assigned viewing areas will have accommodation for Guests with disabilities, and wheelchair and ECV accessible viewing. Guests in wheelchairs can see the show from every viewing area and their families may stay with them.
One more question… Will river bell serve lunch/dinner on days when there is no fantasmic??? (Sorry, but we really love the river bell 🙁 )
Will the handicap area still be available and will that area require a fast pass as well?
All assigned viewing areas will have accommodation for Guests with disabilities, and wheelchair and ECV accessible viewing. Guests in wheelchairs can see the show from every viewing area and their families may stay with them. Disney’s Handheld Devices will be accommodated in one specific area.
Will there be AP discounts offered for the meal packages?
Yes, Disneyland Resort Annual Passport discounts will be available.
Will seating at River Belle Terrace be strictly for Fantasmic Fast Pass holders?
Yes – River Belle Terrace will serve only the “Fantasmic!” Dinner Dining Package menu.
So does this mean that the River Bell will no longer have lunch and dinner for people without a fantasmic dining package??? And with a dining package, do you sit at the river bell or do you just get a fast pass that allows you into one of the viewing locations?
That is correct – River Belle Terrace will serve only the “Fantasmic!” Dinner Dining Package menu. Guests will be given a “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS for a reserved viewing section that is located separate from the dining location.
Hi. We always enjoy standing on the walkway ‘center’ on the right side of the tech booth/towers.. will that still be possible?
I think this is a great change for Fantasmic! and will hopefully alleviate the congestion in that area prior to the first show. This is a much needed change that seems to work well for World of Color. However, I am really disappointed that the Premium Viewing section will no longer be an option. It has become a great tradition for my family and we loved having comfortable seats right up front, and an amazing staff of Cast Members to greet us. As with all new things, I’m sure it will be a learning process…but I sincerely hope Premium Viewing will once again be offered. Sorry to be a complainer…just wanted to voice my opinion.
Will the Blue Bayou meal include a choice of the meal or is it a set menu? As a vegan, the WoC has never been an option because none of the meals are vegan-friendly.
Lisa – When you book your reservation, be sure to inform the cast member of your dietary needs, and the request will be noted on your reservation. Once you arrive at the restaurant, please inform the server, chef or manager on duty.
A few questions, where will the different seating areas be? Will River Belle and Blue Bayou still offer regular guest dinning as well as a packages?
Tim – Your reserved viewing section will be listed on your FASTPASS when you receive it. Blue Bayou Restaurant will continue to offer a full dinner menu in addition to the 3-course menu for the “Fantasmic!” dining package. River Belle Terrace will serve only the “Fantasmic!” dining package menu.
Erin-If you choose the Blue Bayou dinner package will you be able to choose which Fantasmic show you will get Fastpasses for?
Yes – Just indicate your preference when you make your reservation.
Erin, will any of the food packages have gluten-free options?
Thanks!
Hi Susan – Yes. When booking your reservation, please inform the cast member of any food allergies or restrictions and the request will be noted on your reservation. Once you arrive at the restaurant, please inform the server, chef or manager on duty of any dietary restrictions.
Lots of questions here……first why would you do something like this? Fantastic has plenty of viewing. Secondly, what is going to take the place of the food currently being served for lunch and dinner at River Belle terrace? For many people, it is currently one of the very FEW places that vegetarians as well as those that like chicken over beef can find a good meal. The option for a broccoli and cheese potato has already been taken away. And the new options are very pricey.
Erin, I very much appreciate your prior response. Having said that, upwards of 10% of your viewers are likely to have restrictions regarding standing or restrictions for sitting on concrete – about 1000 folks per show. When guests currently choose their viewing area they self-accomodate for standing/sitting restrictions. When a machine assigns viewing, these 1000 folks require individualized attention by cast members – not workable. Karen from BC writes of her folks who are typical; they don’t consider themselves to be handicapped but do have sitting or standing issues. I fear the end result will be standing-only and this, in turn, reduces the good viewing capacity of the show by thousands.
This is the most Fantasmic news I have ever heard! Even though I consider myself a Disney expert and know where to get the best seats depending on how long I am willing to wait, the less stress the better!! I am so excited about this! I already have it down on my calendar to get online on the 12th and get my dining package! I’m thinking a special Blue Bayou meal for two with my wife is in order!!
Yes – I definitely think you should do that. 🙂
This “Fantasmic” news!!!
Great idea and we love it!
Finally we heard the rumors and great to hear!
We will definitely do every night!
I am concerned about losing the reserved seating in chairs. My parents at age 68 and 77 really enjoy Fantasmic and the only way they are able to enjoy it is in chairs. They are not handicapped, but they would never be able to sit and get up from the ground.
Karen – We will do our best to accommodate guests with special needs on an individual basis.
So like the World of Color fastpass, will the seating for dining be better and more spaced out than the one where anyone can get it? I remember when my family and I got the Ariel’s Grotto WOC deal and we had room to stretch while the normal Fastpass groups were shoulder to shoulder. @_@
Also, the Fantasmic souvenier for the Blue Bayou meal deal. Any hope that it’s Maleficent Dragon related? Or the iconic Sorcerer Mickey vrs Dragon related?
What I’d really like to know is what is Disney doing for those of us that still enjoy spontaneity, and a carefree, schedule free vacation? As Fastpass grows to most venues it seems we need a set of alarm clocks in our backpack so we can not miss our scheduled fun.
Why are they changing this after 22 years?
Will the viewing areas for the dining packages be different/better than for the free fast passes? Or will they be the same and the only advantage to the dining package is you don’t have to get to the park early to pick up a fast pass?
I am curious how this impacts accessible seating? Seems WOC seating is the same whether I fast pass or dining reserved. Will Fantasmic be the same?
Monica – All assigned viewing areas will have accommodations for guests with disabilities.
Does this mean there are no more reserved seating options at all (in actual seats, not on the ground)? I was hoping they would adopt that with WOC. Every trip we make to DL that’s the #1 splurge we make, Fantasmic Premium Viewing dessert package. After a long day the the park, there’s nothing like sitting in chair with a box of heaven in your lap, sipping cocoa and watching Mickey work his magic!
Given that the Fastasmic viewing area must be gently sloped to be safe by day, many guests are currently required to sit on the concrete for Fantasmic viewing. Guests unable to sit on concrete choose rear viewing locations. If FP machines assign viewing area, guests who are unable to sit on concrete may be required to do so. Having everyone stand will reduce the good viewing capacity of the show by thousands of guests per show. How will this be managed?
Steve – Some viewing areas offer seating on the ground, while others are standing-only sections. Guests with special needs will be accommodated on an individual basis.
How will you know what tickets you are getting a FP for?
We were planning to see Fantasmic as our last hurrah before we leave the parks after 5 days on 12/12. How can I be sure we get tickets to the 2nd showing that night? It will be our first time viewing Fantasmic and with a large group (10+ people) the dessert packages are out of the budget. Especially after booking 2 tours and character breakfasts. 🙂
What would be our best strategy to get good seating where children can view (sitting) and also the adults?
We are skipping WOC for the fact that the kids would not be able to see easily and were very much looking forward to Fantasmic! 🙂
Thanks for your help.
Amber – “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning with the first show. Once all tickets for the first show have been distributed, FASTPASS distribution for the second show will begin. Please speak to a cast member at the FASTPASS distribution area to determine the best way to accommodate your party.
Am I correct that these FASTPASSes can be obtained independently of those a guest might obtain for other attractions?
That is correct, Gregory. Similar to “World of Color” FASTPASS, the “Fantasmic!” FASTPASS does not limit your ability to obtain FASTPASS for other attractions.
My wife and I had our very first date opening night of Fantasmic. We stood by River Belle Terrace. Fantasmic will always be special. These changes will allow us to show up hour early instead of hours early, more time to enjoy the parks.
Some questions…
Will Fastpass be needed for the second show?
Where are the viewing areas located for the dining packages?
Where are the viewing areas for the fastpass holders?
Where are the viewing areas for the Stand By guests?
Will you be able to sit in certain viewing area or would everyone need to stand like they do for World of Color?
I’ll do my best, Brian!
Will Fastpass be needed for the second show? All scheduled performances of “Fantasmic!” will require FASTPASS. If a third show added, walk-up viewing will be available for all viewing areas.
Where are the viewing areas located for the dining packages? Your reserved viewing section will be listed on your FASTPASS when you receive it.
Where are the viewing areas for the Stand By guests? This section will be marked and open prior to each show.
Will you be able to sit in certain viewing area or would everyone need to stand like they do for World of Color? Some viewing areas offer seating on the ground, while others are standing-only sections.
Erin-Will the Fantastic! Premium Viewing with dessert sampler continue as is or will this new system replace it?
The Premium Viewing with Dessert Sampler will no longer be offered, however there are a number of new dining options to choose from.
Does this mean the current dessert seating will not be offered?
The current package will be offered until December 8. I’d recommend checking out the Hungry Bear Restaurant “Fantasmic!” Show Dessert Party.
glad to hear! it will be nice not having to camp out all day to get a place to watch the show!
please consider adding a blue bayou lunch time show package, similar to the carthay circle for world of color.
thank you again for all you do!!! 😀
Does this mean that the VIP seating and dessert package will no longer be available; or will that option still exist?
Thank you.
Bryan – There will be a new dessert party offered at Hungry Bear Restaurant. The current Premium Viewing with Dessert Sampler package will no longer be offered after December 8.
My husband and I will be celebrating our 27th anniversary on December 12th….guess where we’ll be?!?!? Dinner at Blue Bayou and Fantasmic…what more could a girl ask for?!? <3
Sounds perfect!
Awesome, though I just booked the Premium Viewing with Dessert Sampler for next week. I’m wondering if that will still be available or will they discontinue it after this gets launched?
Jeffrey – The current package is available until December 8, so you should be fine.
Definitely interested to see how this works out in action. When WoC debuted the first thing I thought about was how the designated viewing areas could be applied to Fantasmic. It is such a chore trying to view Fantasmic with the old ‘stake-your-claim-and-wait’ seating. It’s my favorite show and I haven’t even bothered to attempt to get seating for almost 2 years. Curious to see if there will be a ‘made with magic’ viewing area tested out as well.
Is the original reserved dining experience still going to be available? Nothing beats the dessert and cheese platter 🙂
You should try the new Hungry Bear Restaurant “Fantasmic!” Show Dessert Party!
Are these other options going to replace the current “Fantasmic Premium Viewing” or is it adding to the viewing options?
A new dessert party is being added at Hungry Bear Restaurant. Beginning December 8, the current Premium Viewing with Dessert Sampler will no longer be offered.
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