World of Color is one of the most popular nighttime shows at Disney California Adventure Park. This magnificent water and lights show takes place at Paradise Bay and features lights, lasers, fountains and music. With so many people eager to see World of Color, getting a FastPass or dining package reservation is crucial for the best viewing. So how far in advance can you book World of Color? Let’s take a look.
When Can I Book World of Color FastPasses?
FastPasses allow guests to reserve viewing areas for World of Color. Here is when FastPasses are available:
- FastPasses are released first thing in the morning at park opening time.
- They can be obtained at the Grizzly River Run FastPass machines.
- Only a limited number are released each day.
- Once the day’s supply runs out, no more FastPasses will be issued.
- On peak attendance days, the supply may run out within an hour of park opening.
So for the best chance at World of Color FastPasses, be at park opening and head straight for the Grizzly River Run machines. Keep in mind that a valid park ticket is required to obtain FastPasses. You cannot book them in advance online.
When Can I Book a World of Color Dining Package?
Several restaurants at Disney California Adventure offer World of Color dining packages. These allow you to reserve a ticket for a special viewing area during an allocated showtime. Here is when you can book these packages:
- Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
- Package availability is limited each night.
- The most popular restaurants book up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
- To get your preferred date and time, book your dining package reservation as early as possible.
You can make reservations online, through the Disneyland app or by calling Disney Dining. Packages are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner at a number of locations including Wine Country Trattoria, Carthay Circle Restaurant and Ariel’s Grotto. Your World of Color ticket will list your assigned showtime.
When are the World of Color Showtimes?
World of Color has two showtimes most nights. During busier periods, there may be three shows per night. Typical schedule:
- 1st Show: 9:00 pm
- 2nd Show: 10:15 pm
- On peak nights, an early show is added at 7:45 pm
Keep these times in mind when booking your FastPass or dining package. You want to choose the show that best fits your schedule for the day. For dining packages, the earliest showtime will require an early dinner.
How Many Days in Advance Should I Book?
To ensure you can see World of Color on the day you want, follow these booking time frames:
| Viewing Method | Booking Window |
|---|---|
| FastPass | Day of show |
| Dining Package | Up to 60 days before |
If getting a FastPass is your strategy, you need to plan on being at Disney California Adventure early on the day you want to see the show. For dining packages, book your restaurant reservation as close to 60 days out as you can. On peak nights, don’t delay or you may miss out.
What Are Some Booking Tips and Suggestions?
To ensure you can see World of Color on your trip, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid visiting when crowds are lowest like Monday-Thursday.
- Book your dining package reservation online right at the 60 day mark.
- For FastPasses, arrive at least an hour before park opening.
- Send one member of your party straight to Grizzly River Run at rope drop to get FastPasses while you head to your first ride.
- Check for dining package cancellations periodically if your preferred time is booked up.
- Consider getting a FastPass as a backup even if you have a dining package.
- Download and utilize the Disneyland app to help with booking and reminders.
With some advanced planning and preparation, you can secure spots to see Disney’s sensational World of Color show during your Disneyland Resort vacation.
What Happens If I Can’t Get a Reservation?
If you aren’t able to secure a FastPass or dining package reservation for World of Color, don’t worry! You can still see elements of the show by:
- Viewing from walkways around Paradise Bay.
- Watching from near Disney Animation building.
- Catching glimpses from the Little Mermaid ride queue area.
- Seeing projections on Fun Wheel and California Screamin’.
- Listening to music from various lands within the park.
While these don’t allow for the full, immersive experience, they do let you sample some of the sights and sounds. You can also try for a Standby ticket on the day of the show at the Grizzly River Run FastPass machines. These are limited but can allow last minute viewing. Don’t let lack of reservations deter you from visiting – there is plenty more magic to experience!
Conclusion
Getting access to World of Color takes some planning. By booking your FastPasses or dining package 60 days out where possible, you can maximize your chances. Arrive early, utilize online tools, and have backup plans to ensure you can see this spectacular nighttime show on your Disneyland trip. With a little effort, you’ll be immersed in the dazzling lights, music and magic of World of Color!
