Insider Tips for Spending the 4th of July at Walt Disney World
Summer is here and the 4th of July is just around the corner. Many families can’t imagine spending the holiday anywhere but Walt Disney World. Independence Day at the most magical place on Earth can be overwhelming and hot, especially if it’s your first time. That is why we’ve developed a guide to help you navigate the 4th of July at Disney World.
Keep reading for 4th of July fireworks schedule and important tips for navigating this busy day.
4th of July at Walt Disney World
HOW BUSY IS IT DURING THE 4TH OF JULY
The 4th of July at Walt Disney World is arguably one of the busiest times of the year. The 4th of July falls on a Thursday this year. However, Magic Kingdom typically presents its special fireworks show on the third, too. Since the festivities are attached to a weekend this year, we are anticipating both visitors and locals to make their way onto the property.
Although special firework displays will be presented at both Magic Kingdom and Epcot, Magic Kingdom tends to be the park that draws the most guests.
MAGIC KINGDOM
It is possible that Magic Kingdom may hit capacity. This means you’ll want to ensure that there is availability and you have a park reservation made to ensure you’ll be able to enter. Although park reservations are no longer required to enter Magic Kingdom, we recommend making one anyway so you’re guaranteed entry into Magic Kingdom.
If you’re visiting with day tickets, make sure to make your park reservations as soon as possible.
Park reservations are likely to book up for annual passholders, so make sure to book yours in advance (if you’re a passholder).
Prepare to secure your viewing spot for the fireworks at least 2 hours in advance, especially if you plan on watching them from Main Street U.S.A.
Pro-tip! Visit on Wednesday, July 3, and you'll still get to see the special 4th of July fireworks at Magic Kingdom.
Jump over to our list of ways to avoid long lines at Walt Disney World.
WHAT TIME ARE THE FIREWORKS AT MAGIC KINGDOM?
“Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will be performed on July 3-4, 2024 at Magic Kingdom at 9:20 pm. Both nights will also include DJ parties throughout the park.
Guests can also dance the night away with DJs mixing tunes throughout the park.
Don't miss our Tips for Watching Magic Kingdom fireworks!
Cinderella Castle, the icon of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (Matt Stroshane, Photographer)
EPCOT
Although Magic Kingdom is typically more crowded, that is not to say EPCOT isn’t. Since the patriotic fireworks at Epcot typically only happen on the fourth of July, it can be quite busy.
WHAT TIME ARE THE FIREWORKS AT EPCOT?
This year, “4th of July Heartbeat of Freedom Fireworks” is at 9 pm. It is best practice to secure a spot around the world showcase overlooking the water. You may have to wait a while, but it will be worth it.
“EPCOT Forever,” the limited-time spectacle of fireworks, lasers, lighting and special effects, will include a patriotic Fourth of July grand finale – “Heartbeat of Freedom.” The show will take place at 9 p.m.
Don't miss our Tips for Watching fireworks at EPCOT!
Multicolored fireworks during EPCOT Forever – Jodi Caballero
VOICES OF LIBERTY
A cappella vocal group Voices of Liberty will perform numbers from the American song book beneath the rotunda in The American Adventure.If you’re looking to listen to some patriotic music while inside some air conditioning, The American Adventure has got you covered (literally).
Patriotic Disney Character Greetings
Some of your favorite Disney pals will don their “Spirit of ’76” attire and meet with guests throughout the day, also at The American Adventure.
WHERE ELSE CAN I WATCH THE SPECIAL FIREWORKS SHOWS?
The great thing about Magic Kingdom’s fireworks is that there are spots other than the park itself (yes, you read that right) where you can watch them. Don't miss our guide to watching fireworks at Disney outside the parks.
However, it is important to note that it will be extremely difficult to enter these resorts without a confirmed dining reservation (unless you are a guest who is staying there, of course). There are a couple of spots at these resorts that offer great views of the fireworks with fewer crowds.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
California Grill
Although California Grill is a signature dining experience and one of the more expensive ones, it offers a private outdoor viewing area where you can watch the fireworks.
Although you may be able to see them from your table depending on where you are sitting, we prefer the outdoor patio. The music is played which is a bonus.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Ohana
Ohana is a restaurant serving family-style dishes including ‘Ohana Noodles, grilled teriyaki beef, and more.
The restaurant is equipped with several large windows overlooking the resort’s pool area. One can also see Cinderella Castle if in the right spot. The music is piped into the restaurant, so you won’t have to worry about missing the magical music.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Narcoossee’s
If you’re looking to have some delicious food and a great view of the fireworks, securing a table at Narcoossee’s is the way to go.
Narcoosee’s is one of Disney World’s more elevated dining experiences, but the delicious food in addition to the fireworks views can be worth it if you’re looking for a meal and a way to avoid heavy crowds.
View of Disney Fireworks at Narcoossee's Restaurant – Dani Meyering
Jump over to our guide to watching fireworks at Disney outside the parks. This special guide includes viewing tips for EPCOT's fireworks without entering the park. Celebrate the best of the Sunshine State with inspired meals and refreshing sips at some of your favorite eateries.
Related Post: Expert Tips for Viewing the NEW Drone Show at Disney Springs
Special Food for 4th of July at Disney World
For a limited time, patriotic bites and sips in honor of the nation’s birthday are available at Walt Disney World. Information regarding the 2024 offerings have not yet been announced, but here are some of the things we saw last year.
Indulgences returning this year include a Fourth of July Fruit Tart, a blackberry custard topped with fresh berries and a vanilla panna cotta popsicle, available June 27-July 4 at Contempo Café in Disney’s Contemporary Resort. At EPCOT, look for a Fourth of July Liege Waffle, available on July 4 only at Connections Café.
Contempo Cafe 4th of July Fruit Tarts (Disney World)
Flavors of Florida presented by CORKCICLE at Disney Springs
Another 4th of July at Walt Disney World offering is Flavors of Florida presented by CORKCICLE at Disney Springs. Kicking off on July 1, 2024 this year's Flavors of Florida event is bigger than ever. Multiple chefs and culinary experts will participate in this July experience at Disney Springs. (2024 Details TBA)
This year’s annual Disney Springs Flavors of Florida runs July 1 through August 13 (exact dates to be announced), and once again brings to life the tastes, techniques, ingredients, and culture of the Sunshine State through deliciously curated menu items at many of the most popular restaurants at Disney Springs.
Includes a new weekly culinary series headlined by internationally recognized chefs such as José Andrés and Art Smith. Each event held at Waterview Park at Disney Springs features a noted chef or prominent restaurant owner who will stage a culinary experience that spotlights some of their most popular dishes and drinks. There is no fee for these demonstrations but registration is required.
WHAT TO WEAR AT DISNEY WORLD ON 4th of July
The weather in Orlando in July is hot with average highs of 92 degrees and lows of 75 degrees.
If you’re looking to visit the theme parks, we recommend wearing light and comfortable clothes as well as anything that can prevent chafing. If you will be spending most of your time at the resorts or restaurants (especially the ones we listed above), more sophisticated attire should be worn.
You can’t go wrong with bringing an umbrella with you as it typically rains for a little bit each day during the summertime in Orlando. It can also be a good tool to help shield your skin from the sun.
Featured image Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (David Roark, Photographer)
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