Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Epcot

If you are spending any time at Walt Disney World’s Epcot make sure you stay until the park closes to watch the spectacular illuminations and firework display, which takes place each evening.

The show debuted in 2000 at Disney’s Millennium Celebrations and was such a hit with visitors that it has continued ever since. Lasting thirteen minutes it takes place on and above the lagoon in World Showcase

There are plenty of good viewing areas all around the lagoon and for a variety of different reasons. If you want a quick exit, after the show has finished, the best place to watch is near the entrance to World Showcase. This gives you a head start over all the other guests leaving the park at the same time.

Another good place is from the bridge near Italy. Although this spot is often used for private events, when it is not in use, it makes for an extremely good viewing point. If you would like to combine a meal with watching the fireworks, book a meal at the Rose and Crown Dining Room in the United Kingdom Pavillion. Ask to be seated on the outside patio area if possible. You will need to make a reservation for around 8pm so that just as you finish your meal you will have one of the best viewing seats in the whole of Epcot. However, even if you are seated inside, the cast members will usually allow you to go onto the patio afterwards so that you can still watch the fireworks.

If you want to splash out and watch in style, why not rent a pontoon boat. The driver will take you on a short trip around the lake at Disney’s Boardwalk and then park the boat under the bridge, which separates Epcot from the Boardwalk area. From here you can sit and relax whilst enjoying the delights of the show. Afterwards you will be taken back to the dock and escape the hoards of crowds leaving the park.

Illuminations: Reflections of Earth consists of three parts. The first part is called “Chaos” which denotes the Big Bang and the creation of Earth. The second part is called “Order” and this is when the Earth Globe appears, changing colour from white to red and then to blue. Images of countries, famous people and objects are projected onto the globe. The final part is called “Celebration”. The Earth Globe opens up, similar to a lotus flower, exposing a torch. The torch ascends forty feet into the air and a thousand white fireworks erupt.

This fantastic show consists of amazing fireworks, cascading fountains, lasers, torches, an inferno and the Earth Globe. All of this is superbly synchronised to a theatrical musical score. During each nightly show 2, 800 shells explode over the lagoon from thirty-four different locations.

Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is a must view, so make sure you don’t miss it!