A week before the Rivers of Light official opening at the Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks decided to do a soft opening. Of course, this meant a mad rush to make the first showing! I was quickly able to make a Fastpass+ reservation the morning of and had the opportunity to be in the audience of the first public showing.
Spoiler-Free Description
This comes after months of delays, in the end, though it was well worth the wait. While it hasn't stolen the special place in my heart for World of Color, both my husband and I loved the show and thought it was a wonderful visual display.
Overall the show has a similar message as Illuminations, peace, and harmony on Earth. Furthermore, like Illuminations, there is no talking during the show. I wish the soundtrack was already available because the music was a perfect match for the show. And honestly, I love to be able to bring the sounds of Disney to work by listening to their show music.
Spoiler Photos of the Rivers of Light Nighttime Spectacular
Pre-show for Rivers of Light
The floating lotus petals are part of the pre-show for Rivers of Light at the Animal Kingdom.
I think the pre-show is one of the best parts of Rivers of Light. The show slowly starts to come alive as the sun sets over the Animal Kingdom. First, you will see the giant lotus blossom float come out and start to take center stage. As it gets closer to show time, pay close attention to the animals walk through the tree line in front of you!
The Main Event: Rivers of Light

The show started with musicians and dancers being brought out on boats, similar to the Jungle Book show that appeared over 2016 summer. Copyright How To MCO
The show started with musicians and dancers being brought out on boats, similar to the Jungle Book show that appeared over 2016 summer.
These lotus blossoms transformed into stunning fountains that floated all around the waterway.

These lotus blossoms transformed into stunning fountains that floated all around the waterway. Copyright How To MCO
These lotus blossoms transformed into stunning fountains that floated all around the waterway.

There are several animal floats that join in on the celebration. The elephants, owls, and turtles are pictured here. Note they all have their babies featured with them. Copyright How To MCO
There are several animal floats that join in on the celebration. The elephants, owls, and turtles are pictured here. Note they all have their babies featured with them.

About halfway through the show they create water screens and show various animal clips. Keep your eyes peeled for some familiar Disney friends in the ocean scene. Copyright How To MCO
About halfway through the show they create water screens and show various animal clips. Keep your eyes peeled for some familiar Disney friends in the ocean scene.

Of course, no finale is small when it comes to a Disney show! Disney's Rivers of Light is no exception. Copyright How To MCO
Of course, no finale is small when it comes to a Disney show! Disney's Rivers of Light is no exception.
Are you excited for the Rivers of Light show? Do you think that it's fits the concept of Disney's Animal Kingdom? Sound off in the comments below!

I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
Michelle
Saturday 30th of December 2017
What is the best place to sit to view? On the West coast (Disneyland) it is first come first serve with limited fast passes given for reserved seating. Much is standing only and people stand around for hours. We have a disabled vet and will have an infant stroller this year. Thanks for the advice