Wishes or Illuminations?

[AllyInWonderland]

Kinda a hard choice, but I kinda like Wishes better.

 

[Plowboy]

Illuminations. The extended holiday version is especially moving.

 

[RedDad]

My kids would say Wishes. I loved Wishes the first time we saw it, but today I'd have to say Illuminations. It never gets old.

 

[Brewer]

Illuminations for me any day of the week.

I've seen it a couple dozen times over the years and it still has the ability to raise the hairs on the back of my neck.

And the Christmas tag is just very special.

 

[Stellajack]

Personally, Illuminations is my very favorite show in WDW. But for a first (maybe only) timer, I'd definitely pick Wishes.

Yes, Illuminations! For me, the story behind this production, chaos, creation, earth coming into being and the planet's history and people, is very moving.

I enjoy Wishes; but I thought the previous 'Fantasy in the Sky' in MK was better; I still love the FitS soundtrack.

"The second star to the right
Shines in the night for you
To tell you that the dreams you plan
Really can come true;
The second star to the right
Shines with a light that's rare
And if it's Never Land you need
It's light will lead . . .you . . . there"

 

[DisneyFan 2000]

Illuminations, no question. It's the more adult and sophisticated show for me, and it's lake-setting is both convenient and beautiful to view no matter where you're standing. Also last but not least is the amazing music. I find the synching of fireworks works MUCH better with RoE's music. Maybe it's because it was made to fit such a performance but that only enforces my point even more.

 

[Calvin Coolidge]

I get chills every time I see Illuminations. Could use some rehab maybe but it's basically a perfect show.

I suspect I'd like Wishes better if it didn't pump Fantasyland-themed music into the rest of the park, and instead had Adventureland music in Adventureland, Tomorrowland music in Tomorrowland, etc.

 

[DVC4bestvacations]

First time I saw Illuminations was July 4th 1984 What a show! That being said I agree with other posters that older versions of Illuninations were much better. I give Wishes the edge against todays Illuminations.

 

[G00fyDad]

Wishes. Hands down.

 

[jayhawkmickey]

Firepower= Illuminations. Magic and pixie dust= Wishes. Since my wishes CD is in my truck right now and I know that I can start off to work and arrive just as "Starlight starbright" comes on I guess I'm a Wishes vote.

 

[disneysince71]

Respectfully Disagree ... the music, show and ambience is far better in Illuminations.


Act III, Meaning • Illuminations, Reflections of Earth Show Finale, Epcot Center [Explored] by janoimagine, on Flickr

No disrespect taken... I love illuminations also!!

 

[GeneralKnowledge]

They are two totally different firework displays, IMO. One tries to hit you in a more subtle, cozy, and magical feeling. The other tries to hit you with a BANG! And let me tell you, they both do their job well. To me it's like comparing apples to oranges, but my answer would be Wishes. It puts a smile on your face from the first time the little girl sings "Starlight, star bright." Illuminations does give you an incredible WOW factor, but I have to give the edge to Wishes.

This

 

[briar-rose]

Wishes definitely! Illuminations is beautiful too but wishes just touches me deeply and I have to cry every time just because it so precious

 

[mickey2008.1]

I love them both. Illuminations is a whole story with lasers and light, and fire. The way it's voiced over and the lighting of the torches, it's totally different than wishes. Wishes great too. I love the castle and the booms, and fireworks from all directions. I vote for wishes, only because we watch it from california grile or poly beach. Maybe they could combine them for one show in seven seas lagoon, now that would be awesome!

 

[SAV]

Illuminations for me. Fireworks, Fire, lasers...the good things in life.

Someone above said it correctly..."Firepower= Illuminations. Magic and pixie dust= Wishes".

 

[bethymouse]

I get a tear in my eye for both. Illuminations appeals to adults more perhaps, and Wishes to kids. But, I'm a kids at heart and to watch the fireworks over the castle and listen to the beautiful music makes me smile and cry at the same time. I also love the music to Illuminations and the barge w/ the pictures on the earth is just mesmerizing to me. I just can't decide. Both are a must do for me on every trip!

 

[GSP Guy]

Wishes

 

[The Empress Lilly]

I really can't choose. Both shows are the High Mass of Disney love, the moment when your emotional connection with the MK and EPCOT becomes physical, as your senses are overpowered. A mixture between a religious experience and a wedding night.

I must say Illuminations is a bit of an acquired taste for me. It took a while before I got to love it. I still have some issues with it: it's hard to find a good viewing spot, I can barely make out the projections on the globe, the countries were better integrated in the previous show. Still, it is a life-affirming experience. With gorgeous music too!
Wishes is Wishes. More straightforward. Fireworks over the castle always work. The moment somebody fires off a firecracker near the castle I am already reduced to a sobbing mess. I will never tire of it.

 

[AngryEyes]

I'm all about the Pixie Dust. Wishes makes me cry every time. I just love it.

 

[Gonzo79]

I love both of them,both are great,but I'm going to go with Wishes.