[jones4117]

Any suggestions ?

[ddoll]

Mostly, you stand for Illuminations. There are a few scattered benches around that go quickly, but if you really want to sit, get yourself a reservation at the Rose & Crown.

[jones4117]

Standing is Fine.

Sorry.

Where is the best place to Stand for Illuminations ?

[Park Hopper]

I've seen Illuminations dozens and dozens of times over the years from every imaginable viewing spot and my pick for No. 1 is the area between and behind the two gift shops that flank Showcase Plaza. For the uninitiated, Showcase Plaza is at the end of the walkway that leads from Future World to the World Showcase.

Although I rate this as the best viewing spot, it's not necessarily the most comfortable. The prime places to watch are at the railing that runs along the front of the lagoon, but people here sit on the concrete so as not to obstruct the view of others behind them. It can get a little uncomfortable, especially considering you must get here early to grab a spot.

The view from this vantage point is unparalleled, though. You have a virtually unobstructed view and everything happens directly in front of you. You're close enough to actually see the detail of the scenes projected on the globe's video screens and feel the tremendous blasts of heat spewed by the fire effects and pyrotechnics of the "inferno barge."

Sometimes, depending on which way the wind is blowing, the area closest to the water is roped off but even if this happens, the view from here is still spectacular.

[faerie dust]

how about the bridge near france

[CaptShua]

Originally Posted by Park Hopper

I've seen Illuminations dozens and dozens of times over the years from every imaginable viewing spot and my pick for No. 1 is the area between and behind the two gift shops that flank Showcase Plaza. For the uninitiated, Showcase Plaza is at the end of the walkway that leads from Future World to the World Showcase.

Although I rate this as the best viewing spot, it's not necessarily the most comfortable. The prime places to watch are at the railing that runs along the front of the lagoon, but people here sit on the concrete so as not to obstruct the view of others behind them. It can get a little uncomfortable, especially considering you must get here early to grab a spot.

The view from this vantage point is unparalleled, though. You have a virtually unobstructed view and everything happens directly in front of you. You're close enough to actually see the detail of the scenes projected on the globe's video screens and feel the tremendous blasts of heat spewed by the fire effects and pyrotechnics of the "inferno barge."

Sometimes, depending on which way the wind is blowing, the area closest to the water is roped off but even if this happens, the view from here is still spectacular.

Yeah, if they wind blows right at you if you are in this spot, expect to have fireworks ashes fall down to you. They won't still be lit, but it can be a mess.

Other places I like are the Italy island, if it's not closed for a party, the bridge between the UK and France, Japan and the area between China and Norway. These last couple of spots aren't necessarily the best view, but they won't be quite as crowded.

[Park Hopper]

Originally Posted by CaptShua

Yeah, if they wind blows right at you if you are in this spot, expect to have fireworks ashes fall down to you. They won't still be lit, but it can be a mess.

Other places I like are the Italy island, if it's not closed for a party, the bridge between the UK and France, Japan and the area between China and Norway. These last couple of spots aren't necessarily the best view, but they won't be quite as crowded.

I kind of like the area in front of Norway, too, but you have to position yourself so you clear the tree line.

[Screever]

Norway is great if you can grab a seat and don't mind waiting for...possibly more than an hour. Bring puzzles for the kids if you got em, and maybe forfeiting a nicer dinner for something you can grab and take with you would work.

I suppose it all depends on your patience levels! =)

[Dana]

I watch from where ever. I mostly try to stay as close to the exit as possible. I like to get out before the crowd does and usually leave before the show is totally over.

[ingamba]

The outdoor seating area in Mexico is a decent place to watch the goingson on the lagoon, but I find trees obstruct your view of the aerial fireworks.

Of course having a margarita in hand makes this experience all the better.

[PockyMuncher]

balcony off of the Japan pavilion. AWESOME spot. with the giant EPCOT sphere in the background. sweet stuff.

[dhoughton]

In a perfect world, have dinner at Le Cellier, then grab a seat in front of Canada!

[CaptShua]

Originally Posted by Screever

Norway is great if you can grab a seat and don't mind waiting for...possibly more than an hour.

Other than busy times of the year, or if you want ot get an actual seat, there is no reason to find your position any sooner than 10-15 minutes ahead of time. Illuminations is presented in the absolute perfect place for a fireworks show - a lagoon surrounded by viewing areas. The announcements leading up to the show are exactly right:

"Great places to view the show are available all around the World Showcase Promenade."

Wherever you are at 9:00, look toward the water and you will have a great show.

[MissDisney]

I love to watch from teh island between UK and France. Or off in teh corner by the Outpost on the far side of Germany. Or at the Mexican cantina....

[Jess]

I eat dinner around 8 in the Matsunoma lounge in Japan, finish around 8:45, then head out to the balcony and watch. The pre-show is somewhat blocked by the arch but I have seen it billions of times, but you have a perfect view of the fireworks.