 | Much like the parades or fireworks, World of Color at Disney California Adventure does take a little bit of advance preparation, but not to the extent that you may think. World of Color is unique because whereas parades are at eye-level and fireworks are in the sky this spectacular is both. Getting a "great seat" isn't hard, though, but there are certain things to keep in mind to make sure you're not diminishing the experience of others around you. |
Before the Show
- GET A FASTPASS - The key to having great seats for World of Color is getting a FastPass. If you don't get one then you'll have to watch from the stand-by area next to The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure which is very far away from Paradise Bay in comparison. Unlike other FastPasses, World of Color passes do not require you to wait before you get another one so get them early! There are a couple of ways to get your hands on some FastPasses:
- Grizzly River Run - During the first part of the day, about half of the GRR FastPass distribution machines are set aside for World of Color passes which go on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you go the better your viewing area will potentially be.
- Dining Packages - You can make reservations for World of Color dining packages at the Carthay Circle Restaurant, Wine Country Trattoria or Ariel's Grotto which include a prix fixe menu and FastPasses for an exclusive viewing area. If you haven't thought that far ahead to make reservations, Wine Country Trattoria often has extra dining packages available for walk-ins or other non-dining package reservations if you just ask!
- Dessert Party - You can also make reservations for a special World of Color dessert party where you're treated to VIP seating, delicious desserts and actual seats with a fantastic view of the show. It is quite pricey, though, so I wouldn't recommend it for families.
- ARRIVE EARLY - Get to your FastPass return area early, but just how early really depends on how wet you want to get. If you want to be in the front row and be soaked, you'll want to be there about 45 minutes early. If you really don't care, just get there at least 20 minutes before the show starts. We always try to find our seats about 30 minutes before showtime and it always works out perfect for us. If you're planning on watching from the stand-by area, the earlier you can arrive the better since you're already at a disadvantage, but I would never personally wait more than 45 minutes for any show.
- CHECK YOUR SIGHT-LINES - Check with your kids before the show begins to make sure everyone can see from where you are. If you have to move, there are usually multiple places to stand in your viewing area so you can change if you need to. Don't wait to check if everyone can see until after it all starts so that those around you can only hear everyone complaining. A good view will include at least part of the lower half of Mickey's Fun Wheel for the water screens. The large fountain effects are pretty viewable from anywhere. Shoulder-sitters are not a bad idea, but keep in mind my next point.
During the Show
- DON'T BLOCK THE VIEW - If you need to put a child on your shoulders so they can see better, that's fine, but please make your way towards the back of the crowd around you. If you're in the middle of the group and put a child on your shoulders it immediately blocks the view of those behind you. Gently find your way backward and then everyone will be able to see the show unobstructed!
- DON'T WANDER - Almost every time I see World of Color I happen to stand next to someone who inches their way closer to me as the show goes on without noticing it so I end up squished between people while they have plenty of room! Just be aware of where you're at and don't start wandering into people!
- ENJOY! - World of Color is one of the greatest shows Disneyland has ever had and any version is truly a spectacular! Even if someone is stepping on your foot or there's a small behind in your face, just move slightly to the side and try to get lost in everything going on. I hate to say it because it's so cliche, but it's magical!
