Electrical Water Pageant: Walt Disney World at its Brightest
Life is the bubbles under the sea, but above the sea, it sure is brighter! Or at least it is during the Magic Kingdom’s nightly Electrical Water Pageant!
Water ripples in the darkness, illuminated only by the soft glow of the silver moon. It laps at the bank in a rhythmic lullaby. Your day in the Magic Kingdom has come to a close. . .or has it?
In the night, music begins to swell, and there, in the distance, something flickers to life – a sea dragon! All aglow in iridescent green, this mythical beast proudly parades across the water, turning the gentle waves into a rainbow of colors.
The pageant has begun.
Let There Be Light!
The Electrical Water Pageant is a brilliant display that brings Christmastime vibes to Walt Disney World every single night. Along with the park’s iconic fireworks, it’s a magical way to end a magical day. Forget the cherry on top, it’s like the frosting on a cinnamon roll from Gaston’s Tavern!
This beloved tradition goes all the back to the opening of Walt Disney World, specifically, Dedication Day. The dedication of the park was a three-day-long celebration, culminating with Roy O. Disney, Walt’s brother, reading a memorial plaque. Mickey stood by Roy’s side as his voice rang out over the crowd with these words:
“Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney. . .and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place. . .a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn — together. Dedicated this 25th day of October, 1971.”1
Roy O. Disney
The Magic Kingdom continues to bring happiness and light to our world, thanks in part to the Electrical Water Pageant!
This fanciful parade was first announced via “mysterious lights” in the sky (actually a Good Year blimp) just before fourteen floats, each decked out in twinkling, multi-colored lights, danced across the waters that warm Autumn night. The debut ended in a display of brilliant pyrotechnics and a rousing chorus of “America the Beautiful.” It was both patriotism and awe which brought people to their feet that night.
This aquatic parade has changed a little bit since Dedication Day, but still retains a cast of glowing sea creatures, both mythical and real, and of course, a hefty dose of that signature Disney magic. As the floats are whisked across the water, you might find yourself swept away in the emotion of the display – that swell of happiness that only comes from getting to experience someone else’s dream come true.
And of course, Walt’s dream was for you to enjoy his park. What a lovely coincidence, don’t you think?
And At Last I See the Light
We’ve all seen Tangled, right? (Right?!?)
Well, prepare to feel just as dazzled as Rapunzel did during the lantern scene. From the moment the first sea creature flickers to life, the world becomes a little softer and a little brighter, even if only for fifteen minutes.
As you watch the Electrical Water Pageant, you can expect to see a collection of oceanic animals constructed entirely of Christmas lights. In the lead is a serpentine (but friendly!) sea dragon arching its back out of the water. This fellow is breathing red-hot fire to light the way!
Following the sea dragon is a smiling whale, an adorable turtle, jumping dolphins, and a waving octopus. Of course, these sea critters are at the beck and call of King Triton, whose chariot is being pulled along by four dutiful seahorses!
(On Dedication Day, the enlightened cast included sea lions playing with a ball as well as a giant clamshell that opened and closed.2)
As the creatures each come to life, loudspeakers play famous Disney melodies as if from thin air. Bop to “Under the Sea” along with each moving, magical creature!
Just before the Electrical Water Pageant comes to a close, each float stunningly transforms into stars and stripes while riveting renditions of “God Bless America” and “Grand Old Flag” triumphantly play. It’s enough to make one branch out from Disney DVDs and watch James Cagney in Yankee Doodle Dandy!
Step Into the Light (of the Electrical Water Pageant)
Now, where do you go to take in this splendid sight? You’ve got a few different options!
The parade takes place on the Seven Seas Lagoon and can be viewed from several locations along the shore as its sails around:
- Polynesian Village Resort – 8:45 p.m.
- Grand Floridian Resort and Spa – 9:00 p.m.
- Wilderness Lodge – 9:30 p.m.
- Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground – 9:45 p.m.
- Contemporary Resort -10:00 p.m.
The Electrical Water Pageant is performed at each location, beginning with the Polynesian Village Resort and ending with the Contemporary Resort. Times may fluctuate by a few minutes, and performances are weather-permitting.3 (You can check the My Disney Experience app, ask the front desk of a Resort hotel, or check Disney’s website to confirm times for the day of your visit!)
Which location is the best and brightest? Well, it all depends on your bedtime, what you like to snack on, and where you’re staying!
For example, if you’re looking for an early bedtime or a sweet treat (Dolewhip!!) while watching the parade, then the Polynesian Village Resort is the place for you! But if you’re camping at Fort Wilderness, you might just want to watch from the comfort of your own campfire.
Each location has its own unique perks, and all of them really do have fantastic views. You might just want to experience the Electrical Water Pageant at each and every one!
After all, you can never have too many Christmas lights – or dragons – in your life.
Do you have a favorite spot to watch the Electrical Water Pageant? What’s your favorite light-up sea creature? Let us know in the comments below!
We’ll see you on the next adventure!
Cover Image
Photo: Unsplash
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