Whenever we go to Disneyland I always like to take advantage of the Dining Package options for shows like World of Color or Fantasmic.  Here’s the reason I do it. I want to see a show and I have to eat so why not combine them and make it easier on myself? Selecting the Dining Package for a show or entertainment eliminates additional wait time to get a FASTPASS to see the show all while enjoying a relaxing meal. We usually plan at least one nicer sit down meal on our trips and I always coordinate this with a show.

On a trip to Disneyland last year, when it was just myself and my daughter, instead of our entire family of five, we splurged and got the Dining Package option for Fantasmic. It included assigned seating to view the show and a dessert box. It was FANTASTIC. This box of goodies did not disappoint. It was filled with different cheeses, grapes, crackers, and wide variety of desserts. Desserts were a mini cheesecake, lemon tart, chocolate lava cake, a jelly filled cookie with chocolate on the bottom (that was by far my favorite), a couple of macaroons and shortbread. A drink of your choice (water, milk, pop or hot chocolate) was also part of the deal. We were able to sit and eat all this while watching the show.

Doing some research for our next trip I found that Disneyland changed their dining options with Fantasmic. Initially, I was sad and disappointed (I’ve been dreaming of that cookie since that last trip!!) until I saw the new options.  While they no longer have assigned seating, they increased their Dining Package options to include a sit down dinner meal, a meal on the go, or a desert option.  Selecting any of these options will get you a FASTPASS (without having to wait in line) to a reserved viewing area.

For the sit down restaurants, you can select the Blue Bayou or the River Belle Terrace. It’s a three course meal that includes a starter, entrée and dessert, with a set price for both adults and children. The Blue Bayou is a great restaurant, it’s actually located in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride which gives it a fun ambiance. It’s a little more “formal” than the River Belle Terrace. Last time our family ate there the meal was awesome. It was enjoyed by the whole family which is sometimes quite a feat with a couple picky eaters.  River Belle Terrace is a little more casual and also provides a yummy menu as well. Our family has also enjoyed dinner at River Belle Terrace, their roast beef is phenomenal!

If you’re short on time or don’t prefer a sit down meal, you can still take advantage of getting the reserved viewing FASTPASS, by reserving a Grab & Go meal from Aladdin’s Oasis.  You’ll reserve your Grab & Go meal and then pick it up at your reserved time. You can eat it when you’re ready! There are a limited amount of these meals so book your reservation online or by calling before your trip!

The last option, which is probably going to be my favorite, because well it’s dessert, (and boy does Disney know how to do dessert) is a sampler of sweets and a choice of drink. You’ll pick up this yummy goodness from the Honey Bear Restaurant, which is over by Splash Mountain and is pretty close to the Fantasmic viewing area.

The Fantasmic show itself is pretty cool. It includes a bunch of different things going on from live action, animatronics, lights, fireworks and lasers. It’s pretty cool in that it’s Mickey’s dream and it includes many different characters from all across the Disney spectrum. It’s on the water and Tom Sawyer’s Island. The water adds a lot of visual entertainment as you catch the reflections of things in the water as well as the images being displayed both in and on the water.

If you haven’t seen it, you need to experience it at least once, and why not take advantage of the Dining options at the same time! Make sure you check the schedule for the viewing times.