14 REASONS TO VISIT DISNEYLAND PARIS AT CHRISTMAS
DISNEYLAND PARIS CHRISTMAS GUIDE 2025
Welcome to our ultimate Disneyland Paris Christmas guide showcasing 14 reasons to visit Disneyland Paris at Christmas! If you’ve ever dreamed of spending the most magical season, in the most magical place, in the world, then you’re in for a treat as Disney Enchanted Christmas will be back from 8th November 2025 to 6 January 2026.
From the moment you enter Disneyland Park, you’ll be transported into a spectacular holiday scene that feels straight out of a Christmas card. Think twinkling lights, giant Christmas trees, and even magical snowfall on Main Street – yes, it snows multiple times a day! Whether you’re a seasoned Disneyland Paris visitor or planning your first trip, there’s something incredibly special about seeing the park decked out for the holidays.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your Christmas visit. From the enchanting decorations to the award winning Mickeys Dazzling Christmas Parade all the way through to the Disneyland Paris Christmas Market and delightful treats, we’ll cover it all. Plus, we’ll answer those burning questions like, “Is it worth going to Disneyland Paris at Christmas?” and “Is it too cold to enjoy?”
So grab a cup of hot chocolate, get cozy, and let’s dive into the festive magic that awaits at Disneyland Paris this Christmas season.
Trust us, it’s a holiday experience you won’t want to miss!
Disneyland Paris 2025/2026 Christmas Dates
Disney Enchanted Christmas at Disneyland Paris is a magical time that transforms the parks into a winter wonderland. For the 2026/2026 season, Disney Enchanted Christmas will run from November 8th, 2025, until January 6th, 2026, giving guests nearly two months to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
14 Reasons to visit Disneyland Paris at Christmas
Visiting Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season is one of our favourite times to visit (along with the Halloween season!), and there something special about being at Disney at Christmas.
Whether you’re captivated by the dazzling parade, singing along with Disney characters, or enjoying the magical tree lighting ceremony, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this enchanted time of year.
1. Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade
Top Tip
The parade has show stops at Central Plaza and at Town Square. Try to stand in different locations to see different characters and watch the show from different angles.
- Day and dusk performances: By day, the parade beams with bright colors, and at dusk, it sparkles with special lighting effects.
- Nearly 100 characters and performers, including Mickey, Minnie, and the Disney Princesses, join Santa Claus in dancing and parading down Main Street, U.S.A.
- Showtimes: 5:20pm and 7:10pm, please note the performance times will change on dates with early park closures to 3:40pm and 5:30pm
- Dedicated Viewing Area: An optional extra, from €21 per person you can reserve the perfect viewing area in Central Plaza facing Sleeping Beauty Castle.
We are often asked “Is there a Christmas parade at Disneyland Paris?” Yes there is and it’s one of our favourite parts of the Christmas Season. Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade. This award wining parade features five festive floats, nearly 100 performers, and show stops which include a Christmas Tree lighting ceremony.
In 2022, the parade was performed during the day and night, however, this was changed for the 2023 season and was performed during the day and at dusk. The only downside to this change was that the dusk performance didn’t showcase the light effects on the floats and performer’s costumes as much as the night performances. We’ll have to wait for the parade times to be released to see what we’ll experience this year.
Nearly 100 performers, including Mickey, Minnie, and the Disney Princesses, join Santa Claus in dancing and parading down Main Street, U.S.A., making it a truly unforgettable experience. During the evening shows the parade has two show stops, at Central Plaza and at Town Square. During these show stops, Mickey and his friends take turns decorating and lighting up the Christmas Tree (or Sleeping Beauty Castle).
2. Christmas decorations and the holiday atmosphere
- Sing-Along Fun: Guests are invited to join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy in singing traditional Christmas carols with lyrics are displayed on-screen
- Multiple Showings: The performance runs several times a day, offering multiple opportunities to enjoy the festive music.
Main Street, U.S.A. is the heart of the Christmas celebration at Disneyland Paris. Here, you’ll find the majestic 24-meter-high Christmas tree, which stands proudly in Town Square. Adorned with over 1,000 ornaments and thousands of twinkling lights, the tree is a breathtaking sight, especially during the evening when it is illuminated in a stunning tree lighting ceremony. This event is a must-see, as it captures the essence of the holiday spirit and provides a perfect backdrop for festive photos.
Throughout the park, you’ll encounter 15,000 Christmas ball ornaments and 80 Christmas trees, all meticulously decorated to create a magical ambiance. For the first time, these trees come from a local nursery and are part of a sustainability initiative that allows them to continue growing from one season to the next. This commitment to sustainability adds an extra layer of magic to the decorations, knowing that they are both beautiful and environmentally friendly.
In addition to the beautiful decorations, you’ll also find festive touches throughout Disneyland Paris, including themed garlands, wreaths, and lights. Each land within the park has its own unique holiday décor, adding to the immersive experience. From Adventureland to Fantasyland, every area is decked out in holiday finery, creating a cohesive and magical environment.
3. Meet Santa Claus, Sandy Claws, Santa Stitch & Santa Goofy!
- Meet Santa Claus until Christmas Eve: Guests can share their festive wishes with Santa Claus until he earns a well-deserved rest and goes back to the North Pole.
- Meet Jack Skellington (Sandy Claws) during Disney Enchanted Christmas at Disneyland Paris in his festive attire, offering a unique meet and greet!
- Meet Santa Stitch: Stitch meet and greet returns this Christmas!
- Meet Santa Goofy: Goofy also gets into the festive spirit with is Santa Outfit
During the Disney Enchanted Christmas season at Disneyland Paris, meeting Santa Claus is an unforgettable experience for both children and adults alike. Santa Claus himself makes a special appearance at Arcade Beta, where guests can share their Christmas wishes and capture magical photos.
One of the most unique and sought-after experiences during the Disney Enchanted Christmas season at Disneyland Paris is meeting Jack Skellington, famously known as Sandy Claws from “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Jack Skellington’s appearance in his holiday persona adds a delightful twist to the festive celebrations at the park and can usually be found in Frontierland by the Phantom Manor attraction.
4. Meet Disney Characters in Their Festive Outfits
- Many Characters in their festive best: Mickey, Minnie, Winnie the Pooh, Pluto, Tigger, Chip and Dale.
- Other meet and greets available too: Jack Sparrow, Baloo, Genie, Peter Pan & Wendy, Captain Hook, Darth Vader, Mandalorian, Chewbacca, Mad Hatter and Alice and Disney Princesses.
One of our favourite parts of the Christmas season at Disneyland Paris is meeting all the Disney characters dressed in their festive best. Throughout the park, iconic characters such as Chip and Dale wear delightful holiday outfits, whilst Goofy and Stitch also take inspiration from Santa Claus!
One aspect that we have noticed over the many years of visiting the parks, is that although you can see Mickey and Minnie in their holiday outfits waving from the Main Street Station every morning. Mickey Mouse doesn’t wear his holiday outfit at Meet Mickey during the festive season, instead, he continues to wear his classic outfit.
5. Snow on Main Street USA
- Listen for music changes: Experience snoap (faux snow) on Main Street USA
- Multiple snowfalls: Each snowfall lasts a few minutes and happens several times a day, offering multiple opportunities to enjoy this experience.
One of the highlights of the Christmas decorations is the snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. Several times a day, snowflakes gently fall from the sky, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. This snowy wonderland is a unique feature that enhances the holiday experience, making it feel like you are in the middle of a winter fairy tale. The sight of snow falling against the backdrop of festive lights and decorations is simply mesmerizing.
6. Christmas Show: Let's Sing Christmas!
- Festive Sing-Along: Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy in a heartwarming musical extravaganza at the Videopolis Theater, where guests are invited to sing along with classic Christmas carols displayed on-screen.
- Multiple Performances Daily: Enjoy several showtimes throughout the day, making it convenient to fit this festive experience into your park schedule.
- Special Guest: This year Clarabelle Cow will be a surprise guest!
“Let’s Sing Christmas!” is an absolute must-do at Disneyland Paris during the holiday season. This lively show brings the spirit of Christmas to life with beloved Disney characters leading the audience in a joyful sing-along.
The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the enchanting holiday music, makes it a perfect family-friendly event. Our favourite part of the show is Minnie Mouse’s version of “All I want for Christmas”!
But wait there’s more! This year Disneyland Paris has said that a special guest, Clarabelle, who’ll be bringing something special to the show!
7 .Magical Christmas Tree Lighting
- Multiple lighting performances: The tree lighting happens every 30 minutes after dark, transforming Town Square with music and lights.
- No characters: While the regular lighting doesn’t include characters, the tree lighting during Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade features beloved Disney characters, adding extra magic to the event.
The Magical Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is a breathtaking highlight of Disneyland Paris during the festive season. Each evening, as the sun sets, the majestic 24-meter-high Christmas tree in Town Square is illuminated, creating a stunning display of lights and colors that captures the essence of holiday magic. This towering tree, adorned with over 1,000 ornaments and thousands of twinkling lights, becomes the focal point of Main Street, U.S.A.
The tree lighting happens around every 30 minutes after dark, providing numerous opportunities throughout the evening to witness this enchanting spectacle. While the regular tree lighting does not feature any Disney characters, it remains a mesmerizing experience. The only time characters are included in the tree lighting is during Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade, adding an extra layer of magic to the event.
8. L’Hiver Gourmand Winter Food Market
- Charming Chalets: Located in both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, these chalets offer a variety of seasonal dishes and adds to the magical holiday experience..
- Delectable Cuisine: Enjoy winter velouté, stuffed poultry with chestnuts and cranberries, hot chocolate, and more.
- 2025 Christmas Season: Food chalets will be open from Nov 2025 to March 2026
L’Hiver Gourmand winter market usually runs from November to March, offering a festive delight for food lovers visiting Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season. This enchanting winter market is located in both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park and is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in seasonal treats.
The section we enjoy the most is the Ratatouille area. The Parisian settings, mixed with the food chalets and festive lights, make this the most beautiful area of the park. The charming wooden chalets offer a variety of delicious options, from winter roasted chesnuts to festive waffles. You can also enjoy ho-ho-hot chocolate and our favourite winter drink mulled wine!
9. Specialty Festive Menus at Disney Restaurants
- Available at both quick service and table service restaurants, these festive food and drink offerings are designed to make your holiday experience even more magical.
- 2025/2026 menu’s will be released soon!
Our favorites from previous years include Mickey’s Christmas Waffle, topped with salted butter caramel sauce, whipped cream, and meringue. This delightful treat is perfect for a quick sweet fix while exploring the parks. Inside the buffets, we particularly enjoyed the stuffed turkey, a hearty dish featuring poultry stuffed with chestnuts and cranberries, served with a tangy cranberry sauce. This classic holiday dish brings a taste of home to your Disney Christmas experience.
The festive drinks are also a must-try. The Spiced Apple Warmer stood out for us with its perfect blend of Liqueur Double Jus, apple juice, cinnamon, and star anise. This warm, spiced beverage is ideal for keeping the chill at bay while adding a festive cheer to your day. Other festive drink options include hot chocolates, holiday-themed cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy
10. The Keeper of Time and the Winter Light
- Brand new lobby show inside the Disneyland Hotel
This holiday season, get ready for a brand-new show in the lobby that’ll make your visit feel straight out of a fairytale! Say hello to The Keeper of Time and the Winter Light—a whimsical, heartwarming performance that will pull you right into the magic of Christmas storytelling with just the right dash of humor and charm.
Kids especially will love learning the special words needed to unlock the magical book of time, releasing the Winter Light that brings the magnificent Christmas tree to life. It’s a truly enchanted moment that will make memories to treasure!
And there’s more holiday cheer around every corner. The hotel store will be brimming with seasonal treasures, including an exclusive Christmas ornament that celebrates the hotel’s stunning design, complete with beautiful façades, delicate arabesques, princess icons, and the iconic clock.
11. Princess Aurora's Magical Wishes
- Featuring Aurora and Prince Philip
12. Holiday Gathering
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- Returning for the 2025 Christmas Season
- Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Santa Claus and Friends in Town Square
- Starting 16th November!
Get ready for a festive celebration in Town Square with Mickey, Minnie, Santa Claus, and all their friends! The beloved Christmas show is returning for the 2025 holiday season, and it’s sure to bring joy to everyone. Just like last year, the show will be performed once per day, giving you the perfect chance to see your favorite characters in their holiday best.
Showtimes: TBC
please check DLP App as this time may change!
13. Disney Princess Holiday Season Celebration
- Daily performance on Central Plaza
This Christmas, the Disney Princesses are back with an enchanting show, returning for the 2025 season with some exciting changes! This year, the show will take place on Central Plaza instead of the Castle Stage, giving you a special opportunity to get closer than ever to your favorite princesses in their festive outfits.
Aurora, Cinderella, Belle, Tiana, Jasmine, Rapunzel, Ariel, and Snow White will sprinkle a little extra magic on your holiday season with their enchanting Disney Princesses Holiday Season Celebration, happening once a day.
Showtimes: TBC
please check DLP App as this time may change!
14. Exclusive Christmas Drone Show
- Brand Christmas new drone show, performed every night.
This year, the park is adding even more magic with a brand-new Christmas drone show. Alongside the dazzling Disney Electrical Sky Parade, this festive show will fill the night sky with twinkling stars, sparkling snowflakes, and joyful holiday scenes, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Disneyland Paris is famous for its amazing drone shows, like the ones for the 30th Anniversary and Bastille Day. Now, the Christmas drone show is set to bring even more holiday cheer with its stunning visuals, making Disneyland Paris the perfect place for a magical holiday celebration.
Disneyland Paris Christmas FAQ
Within this section, we’ll answer the most common questions about visiting Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season to ensure you’re well-prepared for your magical adventure!
How to save money and book Christmas at Disneyland Paris
When planning a Christmas trip to Disneyland Paris, careful preparation can make all the difference. Here are some key recommendations for booking accommodations and park tickets:
Book Early: Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year at Disneyland Paris, so it’s advisable to book your accommodations and park tickets well in advance. This not only guarantees availability but also gives you access to the best rates and offers.
Consider On-Site Hotels: Staying at a Disneyland Paris hotel can enhance your experience with added perks like early park access and convenient transportation. On-site hotels often offer festive decorations and special Christmas-themed events, making your stay even more magical.
Check for Seasonal Offers: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and discounts. Disneyland Paris frequently offers special Christmas packages and deals that include park tickets, hotel stays, and other perks.
Plan for Off-Peak Times: During the Christmas season, park crowds can be quite large. Consider visiting the parks from late November into early December can provide cheaper prices. Visiting on weekdays can also see lower crowd levels and help you avoid long lines.
Booking accommodations and park tickets for Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season requires a bit of foresight but is well worth the effort for a seamless experience. Start by securing your accommodations early to benefit from the best rates and availability, as the holiday period is particularly popular.
Is it Worth Going to Disneyland Paris at Christmas?
Absolutely YES! Visiting Disneyland Paris at Christmas is worth it! The resort transforms into a winter wonderland, brimming with festive decorations and unique seasonal experiences that make it a truly enchanting holiday destination.
The Christmas season at Disneyland Paris is spectacular. From November through January, the parks are adorned with dazzling lights, a massive Christmas tree, and charming holiday decorations that create a picturesque setting straight out of a fairy tale.
Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade lights up Main Street with vibrant colors, while the enchanting “Let’s Sing Christmas!” show and heartwarming character meet-and-greets add to the festive atmosphere.
Seasonal treats and special Christmas menus at various restaurants make dining a delightful experience. Additionally, the lower crowd levels in early December compared to peak holiday times provide a more relaxed visit.
The charm of the Christmas markets, especially L’Hiver Gourmand with its delectable food stalls, further enhances the holiday spirit. For those who love the magic of Christmas, Disneyland Paris offers an unforgettable celebration that captures the essence of the season.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Disneyland Paris During the Christmas Season
In this section, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of visiting Disneyland Paris during Christmas, based on our personal experiences and observations. We’ll cover everything from the enchanting atmosphere and special events to potential downsides like weather conditions and crowd levels, helping you decide if this seasonal adventure is right for you.
Pros:
- Magical Atmosphere: Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season is a sight to behold. The parks transform into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a massive Christmas tree that lights up Main Street. The atmosphere is truly magical, making it feel like you’re stepping into a holiday postcard. Personal experience has shown that the festive decorations and seasonal entertainment create an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the holiday spirit.
- Unique Seasonal Events: The parks offer a range of special Christmas events that you won’t find at other times of the year. Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade and the “Let’s Sing Christmas!” show are highlights that bring an extra touch of magic to your visit. Meeting Disney characters dressed in their holiday best and enjoying seasonal treats like Mickey’s Christmas Waffle and the Spiced Apple Warmer adds to the festive charm.
- Lower Crowd Levels: Visiting Disneyland Paris in late November into early December can mean fewer crowds compared to the peak holiday weeks. This can make for a more relaxed experience with shorter wait times for attractions. From personal experience, visiting during this period has allowed for a more enjoyable and less rushed park experience.
Cons:
- Weather Considerations: The weather in Paris during Christmas can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping to around 4-7°C (39-45°F). Rain will happen, which can make outdoor activities less pleasant. However, Disneyland Paris is catered for the weather with many attractions indoors or under covers and sheltered multiple walkways to help guests navigate the park. Dressing warmly in layers, including a good waterproof jacket, is essential. Although the cold weather can be a downside, it also adds to the cozy, festive atmosphere of the season.
- Crowds During Peak Times: While early December can be quieter, the parks get significantly busier as Christmas approaches, especially during the holiday week between Christmas and New Year. This can lead to longer wait times for attractions and dining, which might detract from the experience if you visit during this peak period.
- Higher Prices: The Christmas season tends to bring higher prices for accommodations and park tickets. It’s important to plan and book in advance to secure the best rates and availability. While the festive experience is exceptional, the cost can be a consideration for some families.
Crowd Levels During the Christmas Season
During the Christmas season, Disneyland Paris can get quite busy, with crowds peaking around key holiday dates and weekends. The festive decorations and special events attract many visitors, making the parks lively but also more crowded than usual. From early November through early January, expect larger crowds, especially during school holidays, weekends, and the days leading up to and including Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
To make the most of your visit and navigate the crowds effectively, here are some tips to consider:
- Plan Ahead and Book Early: Secure your park tickets and accommodations as early as possible. This not only helps in avoiding last-minute price hikes but also ensures you get your preferred lodging and park reservations. If staying at a Disney hotel, book your dining reservations and FastPass selections well in advance.
- Arrive Early: Arriving early gives you a head start on the day’s attractions and helps you avoid the peak rush. This strategy is particularly effective for popular rides and shows. Consider arriving before the park opens to take full advantage of quieter morning hours.
- Utilize Disney’s App: Download and regularly check the Disneyland Paris app for real-time updates on wait times, show schedules, and dining options. The app can help you navigate the parks efficiently and avoid long waits by providing current information on ride availability and dining reservations.
- Plan for Peak Times: To avoid the largest crowds, plan your visits to major attractions and popular areas during less busy times of the day. Mid-mornings and late afternoons tend to be less crowded than midday. Use this time to enjoy popular rides and shows, and save shopping or dining for peak times when lines are longer.
- Take Advantage of Extra Magic Hours: If staying at a Disney hotel, use the Extra Magic Hours, which allow hotel guests to enter the parks before the general public. This extra time can be invaluable for experiencing popular attractions with shorter wait times.
- Be Flexible with Your Plans: Keep your schedule flexible to accommodate unexpected changes or longer wait times. Prioritize your must-see attractions and shows but be prepared to adapt based on crowd levels and weather conditions.
By following these tips and staying adaptable, you can make the most of your visit to Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season, ensuring a magical and memorable experience despite the increased crowds.
What to expect on Christmas Day...
If you’re planning to visit Disneyland Paris on Christmas Day, you’ll find that the experience is much like any other day during the Christmas season. The park remains a festive wonderland, bustling with holiday cheer and decorated in its full Christmas splendor. However, it’s worth noting that there are no unique or special events specific to Christmas Day itself. Instead, the day is filled with the usual seasonal attractions and festivities that define the holiday season at Disneyland Paris.
Best places to shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs...
We are often asked “Is there a Christmas shop at Disneyland Paris? Yes, there is and it’s called La Boutique du Château.
When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gifts and souvenirs at Disneyland Paris, there are a few standout spots that offer a magical shopping experience. One of the top places to visit is La Boutique du Château. Located in Sleeping Beauty Castle, this charming medieval-style store is a year-round Christmas haven, allowing you to immerse yourself in festive shopping no matter the time of year. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of Disney-themed holiday decorations, unique Christmas ornaments, and collectible gifts that capture the magic of the season.
Additionally, throughout Disneyland Paris, several other shops and boutiques feature seasonal merchandise and special Christmas items. From festive clothing and accessories to exclusive Disney-themed gifts, these shops are perfect for finding that special something to place under the Christmas tree.
Can I enter the park before it officially opens if I'm staying at a Disney Hotel?
Yes, guests staying at Disney Hotels and select Annual Passholders have the exclusive privilege of entering the park 60 minutes before it officially opens to the public. This is known as “Extra Magic Time” and allows early access to select attractions and experiences.
Guests who booking Character Breakfast inside the park can also enter before Extra Magic Time, allowing you to get the perfect Main Street or Castle Photos.
What time is Magic Hour at Disney Paris?
Extra Magic Time (Magic Hour) typically starts one hour before the official opening time of the park.
Extra Magic Time, running from 8:30 – 9:30 am each morning in both Walt Disney Studios Park and Disneyland Park, offers guests the chance to enjoy a selection of attractions before the park opens to the general public. Essentially, it’s your ticket to experiencing many of the most popular rides with minimal wait times!
