Disneyland World of Color: Everything You Need to Know - The Family Vacation Guide (2024)

A trip to Disneyland in California is an incredible experience. Rides, characters, and hours of entertainment all await you. Choosing the best attractions to catch while you’re there can be difficult, but Disneyland’s World of Color should be on your list.

If you plan to spend some time at the park, below, you’ll find all the information you need to catch the show.

What Is Disneyland World of Color?

World of Color is a show the park offers that visitors of all ages can enjoy. It’s a breathtaking light and water show at Paradise Gardens Park right in front of Pixar Pier.

Elaborate fountains, lasers, and dancing flames move in an intricate choreography to reflect the magical joy of Disney’s storytelling. You will be taken on a wild visual and emotional journey, visiting some of the most iconic Disney moments along the way. True to its name, you will be awash in color and wonder throughout the show and walk away feeling dazzled.

A couple of different packages include this show, and there’s even a holiday-themed performance if you plan to visit during your winter vacation. Not only can these packages help you save on costs, but they will also help you save time.

How To Get In

To get into the reserved spaces for viewing, you have two options. You can get a voucher for one of the dining or dessert packages or join the virtual queue by noon each day. Any additional viewing is first-come, first-served, and free space is limited. You can join the virtual queue on the app.

A valid, same-day pass for California Adventure or a park hopper pass will be required to reserve your space in the queue. A park hopper pass will allow you to visit all of the different areas of Disneyland. If unsure, you can always ask a staff member about available seating.

Each member of your party will need a pass. If your entire group has a smartphone, this shouldn’t be tough to do. You can add friends or family to your pass on the app. Hit the plus sign at the top right corner of the screen, where you’ll find your tickets. You can scan their tickets from there and add them to your party.

When To Leave

Light is easiest to see in the dark, so you can expect this show to occur in the evening. It’s a great way to end your day.

Getting there on time will make an enormous difference in your experience. If you’re late, you risk standing in the back.

The good news is this show takes place in the air. If you’re tall and don’t have children, you shouldn’t have too much trouble seeing it even if you run behind. We recommend that you stand in the back and give yourself a little room so you aren’t looking up at the back of someone’s head.

When you should arrive will depend on what time your show is. Usually, you can expect the first show to be around nine and the second to be around 10:15. Those are subject to changes and cancellations, however, so you will want to check the schedule or ask a staff member nearby about showings.

Best Spots for Viewing

There are a few different reserved viewing spaces for the show, which will offer the best view. The blue and yellow sections offer standing room only, but the show is only 22 minutes long, so even young guests won’t have time to get too antsy before the end.

Another great way to enjoy the show is by reserving a dining package. This package will give you a front-row view from the premium viewing areas. You can go to these areas as soon as you finish your exquisite meal.

Getting the perfect spot can be tricky and might vary depending on where you end up and who is with you. Here’s a list of tips to help make the experience easier to navigate:

• Be ready to join the virtual queue as soon as you can. Being even a few minutes late could mean you miss your opportunity. This show is massively popular; everyone will be waiting for their spot.
• Get as close as you can to the water if you have kids. Your little ones might have a difficult time viewing the show otherwise. Avoiding this might require showing up an hour before the show.
• If you are in the blue section, you might want to try a spot on the bridge since it’s less likely to fill up quickly.
• You can view this show from outside of the designated viewing areas. It is a fantastic option if you aren’t with children or just want to catch a glimpse of the action. You can see the lights from afar at Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.
• If you miss the first show, getting into the second will be much easier. By 10 PM, World of Color is much less crowded.
• Bring a jacket or a poncho. This tip is crucial if you are near the water. With spraying water, there is, of course, a chance that you will get wet. And even in the warm state of California, it can get chilly after dark.

Dining Packages

Packages are a great way to enjoy this show. Not only do they allow you to view the spectacle comfortably, but it’s also a great way to enjoy some of the other splendors the park provides.

You should note that you can’t reserve the package. Instead, you must reserve a seat at the participating restaurant and ask your server for the package. These are first-come-first-served.

Below is some information on the excellent restaurants participating in a package for this show.

Wine Country Trattoria

This casual Italian restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining options. Make your way through a three-course meal in a beautiful villa sure to sweep you away.

In addition to Italian-style fare, you can order wine by the glass and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. You can choose from dinner or lunch, and guests ages 3 to 9 receive a discounted price.

This restaurant has other events and packages, so visit the app or ask your server about what’s available.

Storyteller’s Cafe

If you are more inclined toward all-you-can-eat style feasts, try the Storyteller’s Cafe. This restaurant is one of the best ways to get the most bang for your buck, plus everyone in your party will be satisfied with the selection.

You can stop by for breakfast, brunch, or dinner here. Like the Wine Country Trattoria, pricing depends on the meal you choose and the age of your guests. Children three to nine get a discount.

Get ready for American-style fare and some of your favorite dishes at this incredible restaurant.

Dessert Party

If dinner and a show are not your things, try stopping by for just dessert. With a dessert party package, not only will you be able to fill up on some of the sweetest treats around, but you will also be able to sit while you enjoy the show.

Try any number of baked goods, alcoholic beverages, and gourmet cheeses and bread while you are delighted by vivid colors and imagery.

Reservations come strongly recommended. You can check in 60 minutes before your reservation, and guests under two can join for free, as long as they are seated with an adult.

Checking In

Now that you know everything you’ll need to get a place at the show, you must know how to check in.

The viewing areas open about 45 minutes before showtime, but this does not guarantee a good viewing location. Many guests are willing to camp out and wait several hours before the show, so if possible, try to plan ahead. Hang out nearby and catch some great rides or a bite to eat before taking your place in your section.

When the viewing area is open, about 45 minutes early, you will get assigned your viewing area in the app. That means you will go to either the blue or yellow section. You can show this to a cast member nearby, and they will direct you where to go and how to get to your designated area.

Holiday Show

Traveling during the off-season isn’t only great for shorter lines and fewer crowds, but there are also several fantastic seasonal attractions on order. World of Color is one of the best of them.

The Season of Light Holiday Show has all of the enchantment of World of Color brought to you in the spectacular shades of the season. These showings are even more popular than the traditional display, so make sure you arrive early.

If you don’t get the chance to see it, don’t sweat it, there are plenty of other themed activities to enjoy in the park. Or, visit in October to celebrate the Autumn season, including Halloween.

Guest Tips for Visiting Disneyland

Visiting Disneyland is an experience that will enchant people of all ages and backgrounds. Because it is so popular, it’s wise to learn some of the etiquette of behaving in the park. Doing so can help you avoid conflict and give you the most enjoyable trip you can manage.

Below are a few tips on how to get through the park and interact with staff and guests.

• Be patient with young guests. Being patient with everyone you meet should be a common courtesy, but young guests, in particular, need help to navigate environments like these.
• Check the app frequently to stay up-to-date on the latest events and changes happening at the park. Many shows and rides are subject to cancellation due to factors like the weather. Checking the app can help you avoid disappointment.
• Try to travel at ideal times. Although you may not have the power to adjust precisely when you visit the park, choosing off seasons can be super helpful. That way, you can explore more and get more done in a shorter period.
• Only bring what you need. While there are things you will need during your stay, try to leave every other nonessential at home or in your room. If you have valuables, consider locking them in your hotel’s safe.
• For things that you need to bring but don’t want to haul around all day, it’s worth renting a locker. That way, you can stop by from time to time without needing to leave the park.
• Stay at the resort and take advantage of the early entry feature for guests.
• Download and get to know the app before your trip. Much of what you do throughout the day is much easier with the app.
• The app isn’t just helpful for checking into your entertainment. You can also use the map to locate your favorite attractions throughout the park as well as your favorite characters.
• Roam the park freely. Many characters appear at scheduled times and in certain places, but there are several opportunities to catch free-roaming characters. There is no rhyme or reason to their appearance, so keep an eye out; you never know who you might see.
• Pay attention to when different areas of the park close and plan accordingly. If you time it right, you can catch the shortest lines in each zone before they shut down.
• Have a plan of action in case of emergencies. That can include anything from canceled shows to lost children. Having a Plan B is also a great way to ensure that last-minute changes do not ruin trips or cause your family undue stress.

Fascinating Facts About the World of Color

This display is not only incredible to watch, but it also has a great back story. Here are some fascinating facts about this incredible attraction:

• Walt Disney himself inspired the creation of this attraction with the famous theme song of “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color.”
• You will get to see your favorite characters on 50-foot-high water.
• In 2021, the entire show received an upgrade throughout the Covid crisis. New lights and projectors got added to ensure the best experience possible. If you’ve seen it before, you’ve got to check out the updates.

Other Great Shows To See

If this show isn’t your thing, or you don’t have the opportunity to catch it, there are still plenty of other shows and entertainment to keep you going. Below are some fan favorites for you to choose from.

It’s important to remember that you will need a pass to get into different areas of Disneyland. Entrance to some parks comes with your ticket, but not all, so check the app for details. Either way, a live show is a great way to enhance your park experience.

Fantasmic!

This extravagant life show also takes place on the water. The Rivers of America are the perfect setting to watch Mickey use his extraordinary imagination to defeat his enemies.

Parades

Disneyland presents a wide variety of parades for your family to enjoy. These can be an incredible opportunity to see your favorite characters and appreciate the live theater without having to pick a seat.

Parade schedules change often, and you may even have the chance to catch a limited-time parade. Check the app for details, times, and locations.

Storytelling

Sometimes, kids don’t have the attention span for a full-length show. You can swing by the Royal Theater for storytime in cases like these. Grab a seat on the ground or a bench and settle in for retellings of excellent stories like Beauty and The Beast.

Fireworks

Disney puts on several signature fireworks displays. This entertainment is a common practice at all of their locations, including Disney World and Disneyland. No matter where you are, you will be able to catch a firework display nearby at the end of the night. If you come during a holiday, you can even see some incredible themed shows.

Dance Party

You can take your little ones to a dance party at the Disney Theater. Popular characters and songs will be waiting for you to jump, wiggle, and shake while you groove to all of your favorite numbers. Overstimulated little ones love this quick break.

Avengers Campus

While traveling through Avengers Campus, you might see the superheroes springing into action. You never know when the team might swoop in for an action-packed adventure. These are not official shows, but they are still fun to see.

World of Color Is Worth the Wait

Disneyland’s World of Color may take some extra special planning, but it’s well worth it to catch at least one show during your trip. Since 2010, fans have been raving about this spectacular entertainment. It’s no wonder that it has only grown in popularity since then.

With enough research and planning, you and your entire party will get the treat of a lifetime with this show. Check the app or the website for details and tips on planning the most efficient way to watch. When in doubt, you can always ask a staff member for assistance.