Disneyland Paris truly transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The enchantment begins with the flick of a switch as twinkling lights dance across Main Street, U.S.A., creating a spectacle of joy and festivity. Here are five magical moments when Disneyland turns into the quintessential holiday destination.
1. The Enchanted Parade
Every year, Disneyland Paris hosts a Christmas Parade that captures the hearts of visitors from all around the world. In 2019, this parade was an unmissable event:
- Decorated Floats: Intricately designed floats adorned with festive decorations and lights, featuring beloved Disney characters.
- The Magic of Music: Catchy holiday tunes played by an orchestra, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
- Special Performances: Dance routines, costume changes, and the distribution of Disney-themed treats.
The parade usually happens twice a day, allowing guests multiple opportunities to witness this joyous spectacle.
2. Lights of Christmas
Sleeping Beauty Castle becomes the centerpiece of the park’s Christmas decorations. Here’s what makes the lights special:
- Dazzling Display: Over half a million lights creating a mesmerizing sight.
- Multimedia Projection: The castle showcases magical projections of holiday stories and characters.
- Christmas Tree: An enormous, beautifully adorned tree stands at the castle’s base, adding to the magical atmosphere.
The Lights of Christmas turns Sleeping Beauty Castle into a beacon of holiday spirit, visible from virtually any point in the park.
3. Santa’s Village
Located in Adventureland, Santa’s Village is a cozy retreat where families can:
- Meet Santa: Have personal time with Santa to share wishes or take memorable photographs.
- Interactive Workshops: Craft unique holiday gifts or cards at themed workshops.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live performances from Disney characters and carolers.
- Festive Food: Indulge in seasonal treats from around the world.
The village encapsulates the spirit of Christmas with its log cabin setting and warm, inviting atmosphere.
4. Special Character Meet-and-Greets
Christmas at Disneyland Paris means more opportunities to meet characters dressed in festive outfits:
- Themed Attire: Characters don special Christmas costumes, enhancing the holiday experience.
- Extended Meet-and-Greets: During the holiday season, characters are out in greater numbers and for longer periods.
- Surprise Appearances: Keep an eye out for surprise meet-and-greets, where characters mingle with guests in less formal settings.
Meeting your favorite characters becomes even more special with their Christmas outfits and the festive setting.
5. Candlelight Procession
The Candlelight Procession is a cherished tradition, reflecting the true meaning of Christmas:
- Choir Performance: A talented choir sings carols, setting a serene and spiritual tone.
- Storytelling: A celebrity narrator shares the Christmas story, often recounting the tale of the nativity.
- March of Light: Park guests are given candles, creating a river of light as they follow the choir.
- Visual Splendor: The entire spectacle is highlighted by the stunning visual of the castle aglow with Christmas lights.
This tradition brings visitors together in a shared moment of reflection and celebration of the season.
As the holiday season progresses, these magical moments create a tapestry of memories, weaving together the magic of Disney with the spirit of Christmas. Each moment at Disneyland Paris is designed to transport guests into a world where dreams come true, and the holiday spirit is palpable.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Christmas at Disneyland Paris offers a unique blend of Disney magic and holiday traditions.
- The park goes to great lengths to make the season special, from dazzling lights to special performances.
- Engage with characters, enjoy the parades, and partake in the festive atmosphere.
What time does the Christmas parade start at Disneyland Paris?
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Typically, the Christmas parade at Disneyland Paris in 2019 had two performances, one in the afternoon and one in the evening, with specific times varying based on park hours and events. Always check the park’s schedule for the day of your visit.
Are the meet-and-greets different during the Christmas season?
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Yes, during the Christmas season, characters wear special holiday outfits, and there are often more characters available for meet-and-greets than usual, creating a magical experience.
Can you meet Santa Claus at Disneyland Paris during Christmas?
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Yes, in Santa’s Village, guests can meet Santa Claus, share their Christmas wishes, and even take memorable photos with him.
