As the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort came to a close this week, the company announced the fan-favorite “IllumiNations” fireworks show will return next year as Epcot’s “nighttime spectacular”.
The previously-announced “Epcot Forever” show will begin on April 3rd, replacing the short-lived “Harmonious” fireworks spectacle. “Epcot Forever” originally replaced “IllumiNations”, running from October 1, 2019 through September 28, 2021.
“IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” was introduced on October 1, 1999, as part of the Walt Disney World Millennium Celebration. After receiving very positive reviews from park guests, the show’s initial run was extended indefinitely until finally closing on September 30, 2019. The show received several awards during its initial run, including 11 straight “Best Outdoor Night Production Show” Golden Ticket awards from 2005 – 2015.
No specific start date for IllumiNations has been announced yet.