Celebrate the Spirit of Humanity with IlllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
One of the most spectacular fireworks displays at Walt Disney World happens every night in Epcot.
Of course we're talking about IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, the nighttime show that tells the story of the history of our planet in three parts and features lasers, fire, water, and fireworks in addition to a dramatic musical score.
The show debuted as IllumiNations 2000: Reflections of Earth during Disney's Millennium Celebration and was so popular that it has remained at the park ever since.
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth begins with a narration by Jim Cummings, who is also the voice of Winnie the Pooh and Tigger. The first part of the show, The Earth is Born, includes fireworks and 60 foot high flames erupting from the Inferno Barge.
Spectacular fireworks during IllumiNations
Then, the 350,000 pound Earth Globe glides into the middle of the lagoon. The globe is the world's first spherical video display system and features 15,000 LEDs.
The Earth Globe marks the beginning of part two, The Triumph of Life. During this sequence the Earth Globe's surface is illuminated with images of countries, buildings, landmarks, and people all reflecting the history of Earth and the achievements of man throughout time.
This section of the show also features fireworks and laser lights, and each building in World Showcase is illuminated with lights as the Earth Globe spins in the lagoon.
Lasers, waterworks, and fireworks are part of the show
The final act of Illuminations focuses on Hope for the Future. As the song "We Go On" playes, the torches that surround the World Showcase lagoon are re-lit and the Earth Globe opens to reveal a unity torch while bright white fireworks illuminate the sky above the lagoon. The final scene concludes with more fireworks that can be seen from various locations around Walt Disney World.
During the winter holidays the grand finale of IllumiNations includes a musical finale with the song "Let There Be Peace On Earth" and a special message featuring the voice of Walter Cronkite. IllumiNations also has a special finale for the Fourth of July.
Fireworks during IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
Some of the best spots to view IllumiNations include the International Gateway Island area (the pedestrian bridge near the Gateway), the waterfront promenade near Germany, and the boat dock near Germany.
Of course you can also make a dining reservation at La Hacienda de San Angel in Mexico, the Rose & Crown Pub in the United Kingdom, or try to snag a table at Spice Road Table in Morocco.
Our friends at the Disney Food Blog have some great suggestions for the best Disney World restaurants for fireworks viewing.
Good food and a great view of IllumiNations in Mexico
Another option for great viewing is to make a reservation for the Sparkling Dessert Party that happens on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
Guests who have a reservation for the Sparkling Dessert Party will be able to view IlllumiNations from an exclusive viewing area while enjoying desserts from around World Showcase. The price is $49 per adult and $29 per child. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. The Disney Food Blog reviewed the dessert party earlier this spring.
IllumiNations fireworks light up the lagoon
Once the show is over the park is closed unless it's a Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday night when the Sparkling Dessert Party is planned. This means everyone will be trying to leave at the same time and it can be a bit chaotic.
If you're staying at the Epcot area resorts just exit through the International Gateway. If you aren't staying at one of those resorts, we suggest finding a viewing spot near Future World so that you are at least a bit closer to the exits. Above all, pack your patience as you leave the park.
Is IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth one of your must-see shows while you're at Walt Disney World? Leave us a comment and let us know.
Thanks to our friends at the Disney Food Blog for use of their photo.
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Kristen K. wrote on Sun, 07/06/2014 - 21:26:
This isn't my favorite of the night time shows at Disney, but last year I watched from the La Cantina Gazebo out over the water and it gave me a whole new perspective. I highly recommend changing up where you watch this show from until you find the spot that you love most.
Jeanne Lundeen wrote on Mon, 07/07/2014 - 19:06:
Our first trip to WDW was in 1986...and Illuminations at that time was a mix of narration, visual effects on the "ball," and classical music, highlighting each of the countries...ending with the "War of 1812" - and of course beautifully choreographed lasers, fireworks, and of course the explosions (cannons??). It was magnificent!!! The shows since then (has there been 2 or 3 - I can't recall) are good, but just not as great as that first one...
Perhaps there were shows before our first visit, but since this was the first for us, that's what we compare all versions since then. And nothing comes close to that first one (for us!).
Jeanne L wrote on Mon, 07/07/2014 - 19:08:
Our first trip to WDW was in 1986...and Illuminations at that time was a mix of narration, visual effects on the "ball," and classical music, highlighting each of the countries...ending with the "War of 1812" - and of course beautifully choreographed lasers, fireworks, and of course the explosions (cannons??). It was magnificent!!! The shows since then (has there been 2 or 3 - I can't recall) are good, but just not as great as that first one...
Perhaps there were shows before our first visit, but since this was the first for us, that's what we compare all versions since then. And nothing comes close to that first one (for us!).
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