Stars over Disney

Ooh. Aah. Experience the Fourth of July every night at the Magic Kingdom's dazzling fireworks show

Each summer night, Tinker Bell tiptoes onto the delicate parapets of Cinderella Castle to wave her wand and slide across the velvety black sky. Our hearts soar with the possibilities of fairy-tale magic as the heavens burst into colors so bright it feels that we will never grow old.

In today's never-never land, better known as Walt Disney World, we become contemporary Peter Pans if only for a few minutes, while the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks show delights our childlike natures.

A Glimmering Night

All down the impossibly perfect Main Street, U.S.A. outlined in tiny white lights, stores still fill with shoppers, and the irresistible aromas of baking cookies vie for attention. But outside, twinkling stars blossom before upturned eyes. With every aerial bloom of gold and red, purple and pink, bronze and silver, the oohs and aahs transform into sweet smiles. Fantasy in the Sky is like a kiss goodnight from Disney.

An hour before the show begins, visitors start claiming spots on benches, walls, and curbs. Costumed musicians begin to filter through the gathering families, while tots cling to pastel balloons with sticky hands.

Before long, the first extravaganza, SpectroMagic, parades down Main Street. Millions of fiber-optic lights on floats and character costumes dance in rhythm to favorite songs. Afterward, some folks meander to their hotel rooms, but most stay for the big pyrotechnic show.

When you stay for Fantasy in the Sky, remember that the crush to depart can leave you claustrophobic. We suggest milling around Town Square for 30 minutes or more. There you can shop for that last souvenir or meet Mickey in front of Exposition Hall before catching the boat or monorail back to reality.

As you rest your head and drift off to sleep, know that dreams do come true in this enchanted land.

Magic in the Sky

If you'll be visiting on the Fourth of July, don't miss the extended holiday display, complete with patriotic colors and music.

This summer marks the final season for Fantasy in the Sky, which dates to the park's opening. Insiders say the future looks brighter as Disney pyrotechnic magicians put the final touches on their next generation fireworks show, due to debut this fall.

Nighttime Across the World

Disney also offers two other major shows that combine fireworks with a story. Disney-MGM Studios' Fantasmic! fills an amphitheater with Mickey's dreams. Epcot's IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth mixes lasers, fountains, and fireworks. It's easily seen from any spot around the lake.

Over at Downtown Disney, Pleasure Island's late-night revelers celebrate the midnight hour with a small pyrotechnic flourish.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2003
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