Does Disney World have scary Fireworks Shows? While many would call Disney’s fireworks shows relatively tame, they all certainly pack a punch in their own unique ways. Let’s dive into the specifics – ranking each one by spookiness, noise level, sensory overload and more.
3 – Harmonious
While Harmonious only came onto the scene fairly recently, this new kid on the block has no shortage of showstopping effects, powerful music, and Disney magic. Celebrating the many languages and cultures around the world, this new addition to Epcot has become a quick favorite and certainly holds a candle to the other fireworks shows throughout the parks.
How Intense is Harmonious?
Like with all fireworks shows, Harmonious has its fair share of loud noises, dramatic visuals, and other practical effects like water and lighting choreography. However, this attraction is not meant to be scary whatsoever, and distinctly lacks any real intensity, villains, or spooky theming. It also may be helpful to know that if you’re not enjoying the show, you can always step away without having to worry about inconveniencing a cast member or other guests around you.
How Does Harmonious Compare to other Fireworks Shows?
As I mentioned before, this is the only one among the fireworks shows to completely lack any Disney villains, peril, or spooky storyline elements altogether. While some of the music may be exciting at best, there’s no need to worry about Jafar or Maleficent showing up mid-show. Because of this, I’ve ranked Harmonious at the bottom of the list regarding intensity – making it a fabulous show for the whole family.
For more specifics on Harmonious, go check out my in-depth ride review here! Also, if you’re looking for a visual of the ride and queue, be sure to check out this video from 4K WDW.
2 – Disney Enchantment
Disney Enchantment is Magic Kingdom’s current fireworks extravaganza – and as such, has some mighty big shoes to fill. This particular park has graced us with many stunning shows, all rich with the sense of adventure, heroism, and of course, Disney magic. While some don’t consider this latest installment the strongest among its Magic Kingdom predecessors, it’s still a fabulous and inspiring show about finding the magic in each of us.
How Intense is Disney Enchantment?
As with all fireworks shows, you’ll certainly want to look out for those inevitable loud booms accompanying the pyrotechnics – as well as some lighting and other practical effects that could be overwhelming to some. What takes this show up a notch is the addition of Disney villains and one spooky scene projected on Cinderella Castle. It begins with a crackle of lightning and ominous, red lighting and we see many of our Disney heroes battling evil forces via projections.
In addition, there are a few villainous appearances like Chernabog and Te Kā from Moana. While this scene is brief, I’d still recommend at least knowing what to expect if anyone is your party is sensitive to spooky theming, music, and characters.
How Does Disney Enchantment Compare to other Fireworks Shows?
While certainly a bit spookier than Harmonious, this show still doesn’t hold a candle to our top pick on this list in terms of intensity. I would recommend Disney Enchantment to almost everyone – barring of course, some guests who may be easily frightened or who may be especially prone to sensory sensitivity. Overall, it’s an inspiring and magical show filled to the brim with Disney characters and references to all our favorite heroes.
For more specifics on Disney Enchantment, go check out my in-depth ride review here! Also, if you’re looking for a visual of the ride and queue, be sure to check out this video from 4K WDW.
1 – Fantasmic
With Fantasmic’s recent reopening in 2022, it’s no surprise that it’s quickly become a massive hit once again. Combining live actors and practical set pieces as well as smoke, fire, and water effects, this attraction has certainly got it all. Along with the dancing and fighting choreography and acrobatics on stage, this attraction also treats its audience to some amazing water projections, fireworks, character appearances, and large-scale puppeteering.
How Intense is Fantasmic?
Fantasmic is very scary due to its many Disney villains, spooky visuals, and intense sensory overload. Throughout the show, you’ll encounter the likes of Maleficent, Chernabog, Ursula, the Evil Queen, Jafar, Cruella de Vil, Scar, and Frollo – most of which appear several times on water projections cackling or screaming. Some characters like the Evil Queen and Maleficent will be seen on stage and undergo their terrifying transformations into the old hag and a fire-breathing dragon respectively. Others, like Jafar and Maleficent’s dragon, appear as massive puppets and animatronics, pursuing Mickey on-stage.
Aside from the spooky villains, the entire show features very loud music and sound design, some chaotic or overwhelming visuals, and many practical effects that could pose a problem to those prone to sensory sensitivity. While it’s without a doubt an incredible show, just be aware of what to expect if you or anyone in your party might find the attraction a bit intense.
How Does Fantasmic Compare to other Fireworks Shows?
This attraction certainly earns the top spot when it comes to Disney’s scariest fireworks shows, and cranks up the spooks and intensity by quite a bit. While certainly an amazing feat of practical, pyro, water, and puppet effects, this show could easily be too much for many guests – even those who aren’t sensitive to scary visuals and sensory overload.
For more specifics on Fantasmic, go check out my in-depth ride review here! Also, if you’re looking for a visual of the ride and queue, be sure to check out this video from 4K WDW.
What do you think? Do you agree with my Top 3 Scary Fireworks Shows in Disney World? Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know!
