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Visiting Disneyland Paris During Halloween Season

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Last Updated - October 2024 

Halloween is always a magical time, but nothing quite compares to spending the spooky season at Disneyland Paris. Over the years, we’ve made some amazing memories at Disneyland Paris during Halloween, and it’s become a highlight of our travels. There’s something so special about experiencing the park transformed into a festive autumn wonderland. If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris this Halloween season, there are plenty of tricks, treats, and unforgettable experiences waiting for you!

Happy Halloween Sign at Disneyland Paris

What To Expect During Disneyland Paris Halloween Festival

The Disneyland Paris Halloween Festival is one of the most exciting events of the year, and 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever. Running from 1st October to 3rd November, the park will be filled with spooky decorations, Halloween-inspired music, and, of course, lots of opportunities to meet your favourite Disney characters, villains included!

Disneyland Park

From the moment you step into Disneyland Park, you’ll find yourself surrounded by pumpkins, ghosts, and ghoulish surprises. The streets come alive with spooky fun, with plenty of photo opportunities around every corner. One of our favourite places to capture the Halloween magic is Main Street, U.S.A., which is always decked out with pumpkins, Mickey-inspired decorations, and festive autumn touches.

For any Disney fan, the attention to detail is incredible. The music changes to a more haunting, whimsical tune, making every step through the park feel like you’ve entered a spooky fairytale. The magical atmosphere adds a whole new level of excitement, and whether you’re a seasoned visitor or it's your first time, Halloween at Disneyland Paris will leave you mesmerised.

Disneyland Paris



Pumpkin at Disneyland Paris
Maleficent at Disneyland Paris
What Characters Are In Disneyland Paris For Halloween?
Halloween is a special time at Disneyland Paris, as it’s the only season when you can meet some of Disney’s most notorious villains! This year, the wicked Mother Gothel from Tangled is making her debut appearance. It’s such a rare treat to see her, so make sure you don’t miss out!

Villain fans will also be excited to know that Maleficent can be found lurking near Sleeping Beauty Castle. She’s always ready to strike a dramatic pose, making her one of the most popular characters to meet during Halloween. For those who are brave enough, head over to Adventureland where the mischievous Captain Hook will be ready to greet you near the Jolly Roger.

But it’s not all villains! Keep an eye out for some of Disney’s fun-loving characters who are also getting in on the Halloween fun. Chip, Dale, and Goofy are part of the Mischief Makers, and their antics will have everyone laughing. Whether it’s their playful banter or cheeky pranks, meeting them is sure to put a smile on your face.

pumpkins at Disneyland Paris

Jack Skellington at Disneyland Paris
Mickey's Halloween Celebration
No trip to Disneyland Paris would be complete without catching a parade, and during Halloween, Mickey’s Halloween Celebration takes centre stage. This lively parade features all your favourite characters dressed in their Halloween best, with the Mischief Makers leading the way.

The floats are beautifully decorated, and the music will have everyone tapping their feet. It’s a family favourite and perfect for capturing the magic of Halloween at Disneyland. Make sure to grab a spot early for the best view of this festive parade!

Little boy with Mickey at Disneyland Paris











Nightfall With Disney Villains
As the sun sets and the evening begins, Disneyland Paris takes the spooky atmosphere up a notch with Nightfall with Disney Villains. This special event transforms Sleeping Beauty Castle with projections, music, and fountains for a spectacularly eerie experience. It’s a thrilling part of the Halloween Festival and one of those "must-see" moments if you’re visiting the park during the Halloween season.

Disney Electrical Sky Parade
For 2024, there’s an exclusive Halloween twist to the Disney Electrical Sky Parade. Villains take control of the show, with their own unique projections and drone displays, offering a chilling prelude to the Disney Illuminations. Seeing the sky light up with Disney magic and spooky Halloween elements is the perfect way to end your day at the park.

Hollywood Studios

Over at Walt Disney Studios Park, things get even spookier as evil villains and mischievous characters take over. From 1st October, the Studio Theatre will be the place to be for a spooky encounter with Disney’s most rebellious villains. It’s an experience that’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those who love a good fright, it’s absolutely worth a visit.

tower of terror at  Disneyland Paris


The Tower Of Terror
One of the highlights at Walt Disney Studios Park during Halloween is the iconic Tower of Terror. The haunted hotel offers a spine-chilling ride experience that will have your heart racing. The eerie atmosphere, combined with the surprises that await on the upper floors, makes it a Halloween favourite. Just remember, you never know what might happen in that rickety old lift!

As well as all the spooky shenanigans you can enjoy all your favourite rides. 

Tips for Making the Most of Halloween at Disneyland Paris

If you’re planning to visit Disneyland Paris during Halloween, here are a few tips to make sure you get the most out of your spooky adventure:

Plan Ahead
Before your visit, make sure to check the Disneyland Paris website for the most up-to-date information on opening times, ride closures, and any special events happening during your stay. This way, you can plan your days and avoid any surprises.

Get Your Spot for the Parade Early
Mickey’s Halloween Celebration is incredibly popular, so find a good viewing spot along the parade route well before it starts to ensure you don’t miss any of the magic.

Dress for the Occasion
While it’s not mandatory, wearing Halloween-themed outfits or costumes (in line with park guidelines) can make your experience even more fun. Plus, it’s a great way to get into the spirit of the season!

Capture the Magic
Halloween at Disneyland Paris is a photographer’s dream. With so many unique decorations and character meet-and-greets, make sure your camera or phone is fully charged so you can capture all the memories.

There’s something truly magical about Disneyland Paris during Halloween. Whether it’s the eerie decorations, the chance to meet your favourite Disney villains, or the spectacular shows, every part of the park is filled with spooky fun and Disney magic. If you’re looking for a Halloween getaway that combines fun, excitement, and a little bit of fright, Disneyland Paris is the place to be this spooky season. It’s the perfect family-friendly destination, offering memories that will last long after the Halloween decorations come down.

Have you visited Disneyland Paris during Halloween? We’d love to hear about your experience, so feel free to share your favourite moments in the comments!

disneyland paris



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Exploring France: Top 5 Family-Friendly Destinations for a Memorable Holiday

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post

When you first decide to plan a holiday in France with the family you need to decide what type of holiday you're looking for. France has so much to offer and we are really keen to explore as much as we can. France is such as beautiful country and it can offer a variety of family-friendly holidays that cater to all ages. Whether your children are thrill-seekers and would enjoy a trip to Disneyland Paris, a holiday at La Pointe du Médoc campsite : A relaxing break in the Médoc region, a historical visit to Bordeaux, a city break to Nice or even a skiing adventure in the French Alps, France has you covered. Here are our top five different destinations in France that promise an unforgettable adventure for you and your kids.

You can read our full blog post or click one of the links below to jump to that section

A Thrilling Trip To Disneyland Paris




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Explore Bordeaux In 24 Hours - Your Travel Itinerary

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post

Travelling to France is a regular occurrence for us. We visit Disneyland Paris more times than I can count on my fingers and toes, we've made it to Paris and last year we stayed in Nice which was stunning. One thing we haven't done is explored the rest of the beautiful country. France has so many outstanding places that are definitely worth your time. I have been doing some research and one place that continues to pop up is Bordeaux. For us it would be a flying visit so we would want to pack in as much as we could in a day or two so here is our suggestions on how to explore Bordeaux in 24 hours. 

statues in bordeaux



What Makes Bordeaux Special?

Bordeaux looks like a stunning city that visitors say is impossible not to love. The peaceful Garonne River and the promenade along it, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, create a fairytale-like setting. The lively cultural scene and the stunning architecture in all the city’s districts ensure that no matter where you are in Bordeaux, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. However, what makes Bordeaux special and famous around the world is the world-class wine produced in its regions and it's the perfect place to explore in 24 hours. 

How to Arrive in Bordeaux

By Train
Train services operate efficiently, allowing travel from Bordeaux to Paris, Toulouse, and other French cities, and vice versa. 

By Car
For those who prefer to travel at their own pace and on their own terms, driving is a great option. The road network is well-developed and maintained, making it easy to cover long distances between beautiful cities by car. 

By Air
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport serves frequent flights from both within France and various European cities. 

How Hire a Car at Bordeaux Airport

It is clear that Bordeaux possesses a plethora of attractions and landscapes worth visiting. You can save time and energy by hiring a car to explore them comfortably. 

Where to Hire a Car at Bordeaux Airport

You can view your car hire options at your own convenience by visiting holidaycars.com. The site makes it easy to compare affordable offers for a variety of hire cars, providing a comprehensive list with all necessary information clearly stated. With Holiday Cars, you have no hidden fees or terms to worry about.

the miroir d eau in Bordeaux


What to See in 24 Hours in Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. With just 24 hours, you can still see a lot. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your day 24 hours in Bordeaux.

Morning
Place de la Bourse
Start your day at Place de la Bourse, one of Bordeaux’s most iconic landmarks. The square is especially famous for the "Miroir d’eau," the world’s largest reflecting pool, which offers beautiful reflections of the 18th-century buildings.

Stroll along the Garonne River
Take a leisurely walk along the Garonne River. The promenade offers fantastic views of the city’s architecture and the river. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere and see some of Bordeaux’s bridges, like the Pont de Pierre.

Visit the Cité du Vin
Head to the Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s modern wine museum. It's a must-visit for wine lovers. The building itself is architecturally striking, and inside, you can learn about wine history and culture from around the world. Finish with a wine tasting on the 8th floor, where you’ll get panoramic views of Bordeaux.

Late Morning
Place des Quinconces
Walk to Place des Quinconces, one of the largest city squares in Europe. The Monument aux Girondins, a fountain and column, is a key feature here, celebrating the French Revolution.

Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
Visit the Grand Theatre, a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. You can admire its stunning neoclassical facade or, if time allows, take a guided tour of the interior. The theatre is one of the oldest wooden frame opera houses in Europe.

Lunch
Lunch at a Traditional Brasserie
Head to a traditional brasserie in the city centre. Bordeaux is known for its cuisine, so try local specialties like foie gras, entrecôte à la bordelaise, or fresh seafood. Pair your meal with a glass of Bordeaux wine.

large outside wall clock hanging in Bordeaux


Afternoon
Explore the Historic Centre (Saint-Pierre District)
Wander through the Saint-Pierre district, the heart of old Bordeaux. The narrow streets are filled with cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the Porte Cailhau, a medieval gate, and the Grosse Cloche, a large bell tower.

Bordeaux Cathedral and Pey Berland Tower
Visit the Bordeaux Cathedral (Saint-André Cathedral), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral is known for its stunning Gothic architecture. If you’re up for it, climb the nearby Pey Berland Tower for a fantastic view of the city.

Late Afternoon
Musée des Beaux-Arts
Spend some time at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest art galleries in France outside of Paris. The museum houses works by artists such as Rubens, Titian, and Delacroix.

Early Evening
Jardin Public
Relax at Jardin Public, a beautiful 18th-century park with lovely landscaping, a pond, and a small natural history museum. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.


Bordeaux at night time

Evening
Dinner and Wine in Chartrons District
Head to the Chartrons district for dinner. This neighbourhood is known for its wine bars and bistros. Enjoy a leisurely meal paired with some of the best wines from the Bordeaux region.

Night Walk and Wine Bars
End your day with a night walk along the Garonne River to see the city’s lights. If you have the energy, stop by a wine bar to savour one last glass of Bordeaux wine before turning in for the night.

This itinerary gives you a taste of Bordeaux’s rich culture, history, and, of course, its famous wine, all within 24 hours.



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- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on FacebookTwitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

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Michelle
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Staying At La Villa Hotel Nice Promenade

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Last month John and I got the chance to have a couple of days away, just the two of us. We haven't been away without the kids for over 10 years so we were excited at the idea of going abroad but had no idea where to choose. After lots of research we chose Nice, France. We had no idea what to expect, if three days in Nice was enough but we went with it. We browsed so many hotels but we found a little gem on booking.com and we instantly fell in love with it. 

la villa nice promenade

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