Disney fireworks displays are one of the most spectacular and magical experiences for guests visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts. These awe-inspiring shows are a signature tradition of Disney parks, mesmerizing visitors with their dazzling pyrotechnics, vibrant colors, and enchanting music.
Walt Disney World Fireworks
At Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, the Magic Kingdom hosts the iconic “Happily Ever After” fireworks display. This breathtaking show takes place in front of Cinderella Castle and features a combination of fireworks, projection mapping, and storytelling. Guests are treated to an immersive journey through Disney’s most beloved animated films, accompanied by a meticulously choreographed pyrotechnic extravaganza.
Disneyland Fireworks
Meanwhile, at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, guests can enjoy the “Disneyland Forever” fireworks show. This nighttime spectacle takes place above Sleeping Beauty Castle and transports viewers into a realm of Disney magic. With state-of-the-art projection technology and a stunning array of pyrotechnics, “Disneyland Forever” celebrates the stories, characters, and dreams that have made Disney parks so beloved.
Guest Safety and Cost of Nighttime Spectaculars
It’s important to note that due to safety concerns, firework displays are subject to weather conditions and may be canceled or modified accordingly. Disney parks prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests at all times.
Per Forbes Magazine, Walt Disney World spends anywhere between $40,000 and $50,000 a night on its “Happily Ever After” display, making fireworks one of the park’s biggest expenditures during operation. It’s for good reason, however, as ending a Disney vacation accompanied by nostalgia-inducing classic Disney themes, projection-mapped castles, and night skies bursting with color and shapes often is the catalyst to planning your next visit.
Guest safety during fireworks is a top priority for Disney. As we’ve seen with other fire-related incidents at Disney parks, their fire team, as well as Reedy Creek Fire Department and emergency responders and Anaheim Fire and Rescue, are willing and ready to jump into action if anything goes wrong.
Related: Disney Guest Struck by Firework While Riding Attraction
This was the case a few years ago when the steampunk dragon in Magic Kingdom’s Festival of Fantasy parade strangely caught fire while on its parade route and when the Fantasmic! dragon did the same at Disneyland earlier this year.
During the many uses of fireworks displays around Disney parks, it isn’t uncommon to see large bursts of flames surrounding Sleepy Beauty or Cinderella Castle. For this reason, EMS and other first responders are typically on hand in case an accident occurs to cast members or guests.
Guests Report Injury Due to Hot Debris
Most recently, while visiting Disney California Adventure, a guest claimed that they experienced an injury produced by firework debris within the park.
First reported by Inside the Magic, Reddit user u/PRGTROLL wrote the following regarding airborne debris that caused what sounded like potentially severe burns.
“My friend was hit in the arm with a firework. Hole in shirt & skin blister.”
Other guests were quick to chime in with similar experiences.
“During the Halloween firework show, I was standing behind the castle looking up and something fell in my eye,” u/slowdancequeen said. “I wasn’t hurt or anything, but it was kinda scary.”
Related: This VIRAL Video of Disney Characters Watching Fireworks Is Making Guests CRY
Following yet another similar incident that happened at Magic Kingdom when a guest riding Big Thunder Mountain was struck while riding during the “Happily Ever After” fireworks display, some may wonder if their safety is at risk once the “booms” start going off at theme parks.
Your Safety During Disney Fireworks
As we’ve mentioned, your safety during your Disney vacation is essential to park officials. Firstly, if there is an incident related to fireworks at Disneyland or Walt Disney World, you can expect Anaheim Fire Department and Reedy Creek Emergency Services to respond accordingly.
Secondly, you can rest easy regarding potential concerns over fires started by the displays. Disney, who is well aware of fire effect on the local environment, goes to great lengths to prepare areas for their extravagant displays, including hosing down areas that fireworks and pyrotechnics may impact.
Lastly, each fireworks show is strenuously tested to ensure safety and effectiveness. Disney has been using fireworks in their theme parks since 1956. When a small show entitled “Fantasy in the Sky” debuted, they lived and learned about proper use and safety regarding explosive displays.
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Although Disney can’t control every single situation, and accidents will happen, you can rest assured that, ultimately, you’re safe to watch fireworks from just about anywhere in the parks. If the area isn’t safe, there will certainly be a cast member and multiple warnings provided to let you know that you can’t be there.
Have you ever had an incident caused by Disney fireworks?