Fantasmic! is the night-time fireworks and visual hydrotechnic show at Disney-MGM Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, and Disneyland park in Disneyland Resort, California.

It originated at Disneyland in 1992 when the Disney Imagineers were asked to create a night-time spectacular involving water and fireworks to fill the space at the Rivers of America. Fantasmic! was born. Mickey Mouse's dreams are invaded by a host of Disney classic villains who are determined to corrupt everyone's favourite mouse. Using only the powers of his imagination, Mickey has to save the day.

The show involves images being projected onto a 30ft tall screen of mist, with the only villains appearing live-action on the stage in Disneyland being Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty, Captain Hook from Peter Pan, and the Witch from Snow White. The live villians at Disney-MGM Studios version include Malifecent and the Witch from Snow White again, Jafar from Aladdin and Governor Ratcliffe from Pocahontas. At the end the crowd is treated to the sight of Mickey Mouse himself in his Fantasia Sorcerer's Apprentice costume, often considered the classic Mickey look.

Locations

• Rivers of America, Frontierland/New Orleans Square, Disneyland, Disneyland Resort California
• Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, Sunset Boulevard, Disney-MGM Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida

Important information

Especially in the Florida show, it is advised to arrive at the Hollywood Hills Amphitheatre at least two hours before the show starts. The amphitheatre can seat up to 10,000 but it is surprising how fast it fills up. If you purchase the Fantasmic! Dine and Watch package, you can eat at either Mama Melrose's or the Hollywood Brown Derby and then receive special seating.

In the California show, you can book a seat at New Orleans Square for a special Fantasmic! Dessert Show, where you watch the show from an uncrowded view on the terrace of a New Orleans Square cafe, with all-inclusive beverages and desserts.