IllumiNations debuts at EPCOT at the Walt Disney World Resort on this day in 1988, replacing Laserphonic Fantasy. The 14 minute nighttime spectacular featured striking fireworks and laser show, set over the World Showcase Lagoon, became one of the park’s most beloved evening traditions, combining pyrotechnics, music, and choreographed lighting to celebrate global unity and storytelling.“Good evening, and welcome to World Showcase. Tonight we are pleased to present a visual journey, an international fantasy of music and light. We're about to embark on a sparkling abstract expedition around World Showcase. With the music as your passport, we'll discover sights and sounds from colorful ports of call. And to celebrate our journey, the countries will be united by the festive elements of water, fire, and light. And now, let your imagination be your guide, as EPCOT Center proudly presents IllumiNations.”
IllumiNations represented a major evolution in Disney Parks entertainment, broadening the idea of what a nighttime spectacular could be at Walt Disney World. Instead of relying solely on fireworks, it introduced a synchronized, story-centered presentation crafted to be experienced from all sides of the lagoon. That approach paved the way for the more narrative‑rich nighttime shows that later emerged across Disney parks around the globe.
It would have its final show on September 20, 1996, replaced by IllumiNations 25 (A) on September 21, 1996.
