{"id":37728,"date":"2015-03-11T09:00:27","date_gmt":"2015-03-11T13:00:27","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/?p=37728"},"modified":"2022-04-12T13:44:10","modified_gmt":"2022-04-12T17:44:10","slug":"disneylands-new-fantasmic-fastpass-system","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/disneylands-new-fantasmic-fastpass-system\/","title":{"rendered":"Disneyland’s New Fantasmic Fastpass System"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2018Nothing is more wonderful than the imagination, for in a moment you can experience a beautiful fantasy or an exciting adventure. But beware, nothing is more powerful than the imagination, for it can also expand your greatest fears, into an overwhelming nightmare\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

\"Reserved<\/a>
Reserved seating Blue Bayou<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It was May 1992.\u00a0 I was sitting on the pavement in New Orleans Square across from Tom Sawyer Island.\u00a0 It was not opening night of the new \u2018Night-time Spectacular\u2019 but it was not too many days after and I knew nothing about the adventure I was about to undertake.\u00a0 Twenty-three minutes later and I stood, mind buzzing, excitedly chatting with my friends.\u00a0 I had found a new love \u2013 a new way to experience the imagination of Disney.<\/p>\n

Over the years since, I have enjoyed Fantasmic! numerous times \u2013 not just at Disneyland but at Walt Disney World after it opened there and via video at Tokyo Disney Seas.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

For those of you who aren\u2019t 100% sure what Fantasmic! is, I will try to give you a spoiler-light description.<\/p>\n

Disneyland\u2019s Fantasmic! is a twenty-three minute, live theatrical production that take place on the Rivers of America and a stage on Tom Sawyer Island.\u00a0 It utilises spray screens, water fountains, pyrotechnics, water crafts, live actors, and one really large audio-animatronic named \u2018Snaps\u2019.\u00a0 It\u2019s reported to cost over $75,000 a show to bring this extravaganza to life \u2013 which is a staggering number to me.<\/p>\n

This production follows your host, Mickey Mouse, as he uses his imagination to ensnare the audience and drag them on the adventure of love and laughter found in the Disney movies.\u00a0 However, disaster strikes as Mickeys dream is turned against him by some of the notable Disney villains.\u00a0 Will Mickey and the other Disney heroes be able to overcome?\u00a0 Go enjoy the storytelling next time you are at Disneyland (Walt Disney World or Tokyo Disney Seas).<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/p>\n

In December 2014, Disneyland began a new Fastpass program for the first two showings of Fantasmic! each night it plays.\u00a0 There are six ways to see Fantasmic! now and to help your and your family, I have put together this guide.<\/p>\n

\"Map<\/a>
Map of Fantasmic!\u00a0Seating – subject to change as Disney refines the viewing for the show. \u00a0Fantasmic! Cast Members do have a map for the night’s performance which they are happy to show you.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

1. Fantasmic! FastPass Ticket Machines – Big Thunder Trail<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

Similar to how they distribute same day Fastpasses at World of Color in Disney California Adventure, Disneyland now has FastPass machines to distribute Fantasmic! FastPasses.\u00a0 The machines are located on Big Thunder Trail (behind Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, across from Big Thunder Ranch petting farm).\u00a0 These FastPasses do not count against other attraction FastPasses (so you can hold a Fantasmic! FastPass and still collect other FastPasses through the day) and are strictly first come, first served.<\/p>\n

Acquisition is easy; simply line up at the machines and when your turn comes, insert each ticket for your party into the machine.\u00a0 Collect your paper FastPass and ticket.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

It\u2019s wise to check all of your party\u2019s tickets to insure that you are all in the same zone and at the same performance of the show before you leave the FastPass area.\u00a0 If one or more of your party are split off from the rest, ask the extremely friendly and helpful, yellow Fantasmic costume wearing cast members in the area to change your tickets so that everyone is together.\u00a0 If you have different tickets, you will have to split your group.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

FastPasses are distributed until one hour prior to the show (or until the FastPasses are all distributed, whichever comes first).\u00a0 There are two viewing areas \u2013 Blue and Gold.\u00a0 Earliest return time is one hour before the show and the return location is currently the petrified tree in Frontierland.\u00a0 Be aware that early and late arrivals cannot be accommodated according to the FastPass tickets.\u00a0 Each guest old enough to hold a Disneyland ticket must have their own FastPass to be allowed into the viewing area.\u00a0 When you return to the Rivers of America, you will be directed to your viewing areas by cast members holding blue or yellow flashlights.<\/p>\n

2. Fantasmic! On-the-Go Dining Package \u2013 Aladdin\u2019s Oasis<\/strong><\/p>\n

One of the four dining options is the On-the-Go package.\u00a0 This package can be pre-booked or, subject to availability, you can walk up during the open hours and secure your food and FastPass.\u00a0 Located in Aladdin\u2019s Oasis (Adventureland), you can collect your food anytime between 12:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.\u00a0 There are tables in the Oasis where you can eat your meal or you can take it with you to enjoy elsewhere in the park.\u00a0 There are three meal choices for adults and three for children.\u00a0 Adults must order from the adult menu and children from the children\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Adult Offerings: Your choice of Herb Marinated Chicken Breast with vegetables, Lasagne Bolognese, or Vegetarian Lasagne.\u00a0 The main dish is served with mixed greens, dinner roll, marble cheesecake and a drink.<\/p>\n

Children\u2019s Offerings: Your choice of Grilled Chicken, Spaghetti, or Macaroni and Cheese. This main dish is served with vegetables, a cookie, and a drink.<\/p>\n

Each meal comes with one FastPass for one of the shows that night.\u00a0 Return location is the same as the FastPass machines, though cast members say that the only return location is Blue section.\u00a0Cost is $19.99 for Adults and $13.99 for Children. Tax not included.\u00a0 A discount is offered for annual passholders.<\/p>\n

3. Fantasmic! Dessert Party Package \u2013 Hungry Bear Restaurant<\/strong><\/p>\n

The second dining option offering is the new Fantasmic! Dessert Party. \u00a0This package replaces the former Fantasmic! Dessert Party that was extremely popular.\u00a0 The new package begins 90 minutes before the show and is located at Hungry Bear Restaurant (Critter Country).\u00a0 The package include a live band, beverages (tea, coffee, soft drinks), and a \u2018sweet desert sampler\u2019 (no longer included are any savory choice \u2013 so no cheese and crackers).\u00a0 The sampler is currently not individually packed and you cannot take any desserts with you.\u00a0 The package includes one FastPass for the reserved viewing area. Cost is $29.99 per person.\u00a0 Tax is not included. A discount is offered for annual passholders.\u00a0 Advance reservations are recommended.<\/p>\n

4. Fantasmic! Dining Package \u2013 River Belle Terrace<\/strong><\/p>\n

The next dining option is the River Belle Terrace Dinner Package.\u00a0 Beginning at 3:00 p.m., The River Belle Terrace (Frontierland) transforms into a table service venue only available through the dining package.\u00a0 Included is a three course meal and drinks, as well as one FastPass for the reserved viewing area.\u00a0 Cost is $41.99 for adults, $21.99 for children.\u00a0 Tax and gratuity not included. A discount is offered for annual passholders.\u00a0 Advanced reservations are recommended.<\/p>\n

5. Fantasmic! Premium Dining Package \u2013 Blue Bayou<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"The<\/a>
The Blue Bayou<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

The final, and most expensive offering in the dining options is the Blue Bayou package.\u00a0 Your price includes a 3 course meal at the famous Blue Bayou restaurant located in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in New Orleans Square. \u00a0You will also receive your beverages, a FastPass to the reserved seating area, and a Fantasmic! themed cushion.\u00a0 Dinner begins at 4:00 p.m. and the restaurant is open to normal diners as well.\u00a0 The 3 course meal is not pre-set and you may order any of the normal offerings on the menu.\u00a0 Cost is $61.00 for adults, $23.00 for children.\u00a0 Tax and gratuity not included.\u00a0 A discount is offered to annual pass holders.\u00a0 Advanced reservations are highly recommended.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

** All four dining packages can be booked up to 60 days before the event by visiting Disneyland.com (and searching for Fantasmic! dining packages) or by calling (714) 781 DINE.\u00a0 You will need a credit card to hold your reservation.\u00a0 This card will not be charged unless you do not show for your reservation, then a $10 processing fee per person will be charged to your account.\u00a0 Cancellations can be made up to 48 hours before.\u00a0 Reservations can be made on the day, subject to availability (and, availability is limited).\u00a0 Park admission is separate to the packages.\u00a0 Your FastPass must be surrendered at the time of the show and return times are \u00bd hour before the show with the exception of the On-the-Go dining which is one hour.\u00a0 If the show is cancelled for any reason, you will not receive a refund and will not be issued with a new FastPass.<\/p>\n

6. Fantasmic! Standby Viewing \u2013 Frontierland<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you were hoping to grab a FastPass ticket but they ran out before you got there, and one of the dining options is not of interest, then there is the options to wait in the standby line. Currently this line begins at the Frontier Landing (where the Mark Twain and the Columbia pick up and drop off their passengers) and runs back along Big Thunder Trail.\u00a0 You may join this line up to 60 minutes before the show.\u00a0 People in the Standby Viewing will be escorted by cast members to the viewing areas (see map) and, if the FastPasses did not \u2018sell out\u2019 for the performance, you may end up in Blue or Gold to allow more guests to experience the show.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

Return times are only open as directed on your FastPass.\u00a0 Cast members set up roped sections and walkways early and will begin crowd control at that point.\u00a0 I have heard of return lines opening earlier than the return time on the ticket so you might want to take a walk around a little early just to make sure.\u00a0 The crowd control is efficient and ample cast members are on hand to keep the area moving.\u00a0 If you are not sure of your return location, ask a Fantasmic! Cast Member (yellow uniform).\u00a0 Many of the cast members on duty have not been fully trained on the logistics of the new system at this time and cannot easily direct you to your return location \u2013 however, we had no problems finding the friendly Fantasmic! Cast Members to help us.<\/p>\n

As with any new or changed activity at Disneyland, there is a bit of confusion.\u00a0 However, remembering that the viewing areas are not overly packed and having an adventurous spirit will get you to your place on time.<\/p>\n

Location, Location, Location<\/strong><\/p>\n

All of the dining package reserved areas are ground seating only (with the exception of handicap sections).\u00a0 Allowance can be made at the very back of these sections for those who need to stand.\u00a0 Blue, Gold, and Standby sections are almost exclusively standing with only a small section of ground seating for those in need.\u00a0 As a comfort note, the ground can be challenging in the cold weather, sucking the heat from your body.\u00a0 Having access to something small to sit on (a towel, cushion, or guide book) is a good choice.\u00a0 Also, the current Blue Bayou viewing area is just in front of these vents.<\/p>\n

\"Fantasmic<\/a><\/p>\n

They blow cold air continuously (not just during the show). Cast members asked were not aware of where the air comes from (perhaps a vent from Pirates of the Caribbean) but there is no way to turn them off.\u00a0 This is a pleasant thought for those hot summer days but can be confronting in winter.<\/p>\n

Side note:<\/em> Due to the location of Fantasmic! on the Rivers of America and the number of guests returning for the entertainment, Pirates of the Caribbean lines can be suspended during the FastPass return times.\u00a0 This is especially true for peak seasons.<\/p>\n

Remember, ‘Imagination has no age’ and I hope to see you soon on the cobblestone beside Rivers of America.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\u2018Nothing is more wonderful than the imagination, for in a moment you can experience a beautiful fantasy or an exciting adventure. But beware, nothing is more powerful than the imagination, for it can also expand your greatest fears, into an overwhelming nightmare\u2026\u2019 It was May 1992.\u00a0 I was sitting on the pavement in New Orleans…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":81,"featured_media":37729,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1685],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-37728","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-disneyland-parks"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37728","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/81"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=37728"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37728\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":84158,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/37728\/revisions\/84158"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/37729"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=37728"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=37728"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.themouseforless.com\/blog_world\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=37728"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}