Credit: DisneyThis could be the end for Souraror Mickey and his epic fireworks show at Disneyland.
Here’s why.
Disneyland’s Fantasmic! Show Could Be Coming to an End
“Where’s the dragon?” That’s what countless guests at Disneyland Park have been asking lately as they crowd around the Rivers of America—only to find the fire-breathing Maleficent dragon missing, the iconic pyrotechnics toned down, and the magical Fantasmic! feeling strangely incomplete. What was once the crown jewel of Disneyland’s entertainment lineup now feels more like a shadow of its former self. And with showtimes suddenly vanishing from Disneyland’s official calendar for October, guests are panicking: Is Fantasmic! coming to an end… again?
If you’re a fan of the show, brace yourself—because recent developments suggest something big may be happening behind the scenes. In this article, you’ll learn what’s really going on with Fantasmic! right now, what Disney has (and hasn’t) said, and what this could mean for one of the most beloved shows in theme park history.
What’s Happening with Fantasmic! Right Now?
In recent months, Fantasmic! has been running a noticeably scaled-down version of its usual spectacle. Fans who have attended performances in August 2025 report missing effects, no fire, and no return of the iconic 45-foot Maleficent dragon—a stunning animatronic centerpiece that usually lights up the night sky. Ever since the dragon infamously caught fire during a performance in April 2023, its return has been slow and uncertain.
Disneyland’s Fantasmic has been in pretty indefensible shape since it returned in May 2024. But seems like it’s been 3 – 4 months since either of the lifts for Mickey worked, for the intro or the “magical” aspect of the finale. Is this just like, done? Removed? Someone DM me.
Disneyland's Fantasmic has been in pretty indefensible shape since it returned in May 2024.
But seems like it's been 3 – 4 months since either of the lifts for Mickey worked, for the intro or the "magical" aspect of the finale. Is this just like, done? Removed? Someone DM me. 😑 https://t.co/LTAK6E4Mc2
— Park Lore✨ (@ThemeParkLore) August 1, 2025
Disneyland resumed a modified version of Fantasmic! in May 2024, but it was clear the show wasn’t quite the same. The original fire effects were replaced with water projections, and fan-favorite sequences felt rushed or oddly stitched together. Now, to make matters worse, there are no listed showtimes for October 2025 on Disneyland’s official site—fueling rumors that Fantasmic! may be quietly removed or reimagined once again.
The plot thickens. Fantasmic switches to weekends only in September, and unless the dining package availability lags for it, it goes dark for at least the first weekend of October (which is as far out as the calendar goes). Psst. This is, historically, a recession indicator. – @ThemeParkLore on X
The plot thickens. Fantasmic switches to weekends only in September, and unless the dining package availability lags for it, it goes dark for at least the first weekend of October (which is as far out as the calendar goes).
Psst. This is, historically, a recession indicator. 🙃 pic.twitter.com/NCJgBvAmzw
— Park Lore✨ (@ThemeParkLore) August 5, 2025
While Disney has not issued an official statement about the show’s future, the lack of October listings has longtime fans sounding the alarm on forums, TikTok, and Reddit. Some speculate that the show could be paused for updates—others fear it could be scrapped entirely.
How to Catch It While You Still Can
If Fantasmic! is on your Disneyland bucket list, now’s the time to go. While Disney hasn’t confirmed a final performance, the disappearing showtimes suggest that a temporary pause—or permanent closure—could be imminent.
Here are tips to maximize your chances of seeing it before it’s gone:
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Check the Disneyland app daily for last-minute showtime updates or reinstatements.
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Visit on weekends, when nighttime entertainment is more likely to occur, even if it’s not pre-listed.
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Arrive early—claim your viewing spot 1–2 hours in advance for the best view (especially if the dragon doesn’t appear, the projections can be harder to see from afar).
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Use Genie+ to reserve viewing if still offered that day, or ask Cast Members about walk-up options and standby areas.
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Keep an eye on guest services or the “Entertainment” section of the Disneyland app—they sometimes list last-minute changes.
Hidden Hacks and Insider Tips
Veteran visitors and local fans have shared a few key hacks for catching the best of what remains of Fantasmic!:
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Best hidden viewing spot: The elevated balcony area near the Harbour Galley offers a more private view with less crowd congestion.
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Dine like a VIP: Reserve a dining package at River Belle Terrace or Blue Bayou—these often include guaranteed seating for the show.
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Avoid disappointment: If effects like the dragon are a must-see for you, ask a Cast Member before the show starts whether the full version will run that night.
Why It Matters to Fans
Fantasmic! is more than just a show—it’s an emotional experience. For decades, it’s been a symbol of Disney magic, creativity, and storytelling. The show blends water, light, fireworks, characters, and music into a celebration of imagination.
The dragon alone became a cultural moment, earning the nickname Murphy (after Murphy’s Law) due to its history of malfunctions. Its fiery return in 2017 was a triumphant moment for fans. The idea of losing the show—whether temporarily or permanently—feels personal to those who grew up watching Mickey defeat the darkness night after night.
Disneyland hasn’t confirmed what’s next, but based on past patterns, a refresh or seasonal pause is possible. Still, the lack of transparency is causing unease.