Visiting Disneyland Paris During Halloween Season

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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Tips for Planning a Family Holiday to Canada

Tips for Planning a Family Holiday to Canada

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As a family, we’ve always enjoyed exploring new destinations, and over the years, we’ve become a little more adventurous with our holidays. One country that’s firmly on our travel radar is Canada. While we’ve never been, the sheer beauty and diversity of the country make it a fantastic option for our Canadian holidays. Whether you're exploring stunning national parks, vibrant cities, or breathtaking coastlines, planning a family holiday to Canada can seem like a big task. To help ease the process, we’ve put together some useful tips to ensure your trip is both memorable and manageable.

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Celebrating Oktoberfest At Alton Towers

Celebrating Oktoberfest At Alton Towers

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Last updated Sept 2024

You all know we are huge fans of Alton Towers and try to visit the theme park as much as possible throughout the season. Along the way we love to join in with the events that Alton Towers host throughout the year.  From 7th September Alton Towers will be transformed into the German festival Oktoberfest. The festival will take place until 29th September and you can enjoy all the fun and entertainment of Oktoberfest included in your admission fee. 

What to expect at Alton Towers Oktoberfest

For those not familiar with the festival, Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest, annual festival in Munich, Germany, is held over a two-week period and ending on the first Sunday in October. The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

Alton Towers bring the fun of the festival to the resort offering delicious food, live entertainment and of course, beer.

When you enter Alton Towers you will be greeted with German music, blue and white decorations and the smell of delicious food in the background.

If you head to the front lawn you will see a huge Oktoberfest entrance leading to a variety of food stalls including churros, brownies and marshmallows.

You will see the Wunder Bar to the left of the stage which has a range of German beers on offer. You can choose to purchase a pint at the bar or head to the souvenir stall first and purchase a stein glass. Then you can head back to the Wunder Bar where they will fill up your stein which averages about 2 and a half pints. 

There are plenty of picnic benches on the front lawn where you can sit and enjoy your beer and snacks or you can sit upstairs in the Wunder Bar however seating is very limited to just a few tables. 

The live entertainment stage which has been a permanent fixture over the past few months has a variety of  entertainment including german dancing which was a crowd favourite. 

If you are familiar with the resort you can head to the Bierkellar which is situated in the courtyard in Mutiny Bay. Undercover seating options are available here with live entertainment throughout the day. This year Oktoberfest has extended from the theme park entrance and front lawn to the whole of Mutiny Bay. 

Anything Else?

As well as enjoying the German fun you can also enjoy all your favourite rides. 

Opening times do vary so be sure to check out the opening times schedule. The park closing is anywhere from 5-7pm depending on the day. 

Oktoberfest is included in your ticket price so is no extra cost to you. 

Head to the resort before the 29th September for your chance to join in all the fun. 

To extend your fun you can stay over at one of the many choices of accommodation at Alton Towers. 

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Top Things to See and Do When Travelling in Costa Rica

Top Things to See and Do When Travelling in Costa Rica

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There are few places on Earth better for nature lovers and adventure seekers than Costa Rica. This stunning Central American country boasts stunning natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, imposing mountains and volcanoes, and idyllic sandy beaches. It is also known for its vibrant culture and lively towns and cities. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to plan an itinerary. Here are a few of the best things to see and do during your trip.

Explore the Rainforests of Monteverde

One of the best things to do here is to explore the rainforests of Monteverde, which will be a thrilling expedition into a cloud forest with rich biodiversity, including howler monkeys, ocelots, and three-wattled bellbirds. An incredible way to explore this is with a canopy tour that will take you about the treetops for a birds-eye view. There are also hanging bridges and walking trails that will allow you to feel a connection with nature.

Relax on the Beaches of Nicoya Peninsula

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without visiting the beaches. There are many pristine and idyllic beaches to choose from, many of which are found on the Nicoya Peninsula. Santa Teresa and Tamarindo are two notable highlights and places that are ideal, whether you want to chill on the beach and soak up the sun or try your hand at various water-based activities, such as surfing or snorkelling. There are also yoga retreats that allow you to nurture your body, mind, and spirit against a serene backdrop. 

Visit Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs

Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most famous attractions as an active volcano surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Although declared inactive in 2010, visitors can frequently see tufts of smoke and lava flows. The park has many hiking trails, allowing you to see the volcano up close and explore the verdant rainforest and peaceful Lake Arenal. After a long day of exploring the park, you can unwind in the natural hot springs nestled in the jungle.

Discover the Rich Biodiversity in Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park is another incredible destination known to be one of the most biologically intense places on the planet. Here, you will find many ecosystems, including rainforests, swamps, and coastal mangroves. This means that the wildlife-spotting opportunities are unlike anywhere else, with the possibility of seeing jaguars, tapirs, scarlet macaws, giant anteaters, American crocodiles, and much more. 

The best way to explore is with a guided tour so that you can navigate the challenging landscapes and improve your chances of seeing rare wildlife. There are also multi-day treks that will allow you to fully immerse yourself. Whether you’re hiking through Monteverde’s cloud forests or relaxing on the pristine beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica holidays offer a unique blend of adventure and relaxation that caters to all types of travellers.

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, with incredibly beautiful and diverse landscapes. The above are a few of the best places to visit on a trip here, which will show you the incredible natural beauty and give you experiences that you will cherish for life. 

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Visiting Tivoli Gardens As Part Of Your City Break To Copenhagen

Visiting Tivoli Gardens As Part Of Your City Break To Copenhagen

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You know we love a good theme park. However except for visiting Disney parks we have never visited a theme park outside of the UK. When we were planning our Copenhagen trip I knew we would all love to visit Tivoli Gardens. Tivoli is included in the Copenhagen Card and the amusement park has inspired many over the years, including Walt Disney, who visited the park before creating Disneyland. With so much history and amazing rides visiting Tivoli gardens as part of your city break to Copenhagen is a must!

What To Expect At Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli is right in the heart of Copenhagen which makes this park unique as it's in the middle of the city. It's just across the road from Copenhagens main train station and was a 5 minute walk from the hotel we stayed in, Profilhotels Mercur.

The amusement park offers something for everyone whether you like rides, strolling around gardens, watching shows or playing carnival type games. We loved the park during the day however when the night falls Tivoli becomes something even more magical with twinkling lights across the park. 

Must-Do Experiences in Tivoli

Tivoli is much more than just an amusement park; it’s an experience. Here are some of the must-do activities that you shouldn't miss during your visit.

Stroll Through the Gardens

Before you dive into the rides and attractions, take a leisurely stroll through Tivoli’s beautifully landscaped gardens. The park offers a variety of flowers, trees, and water features that create a serene and enchanting environment. The gardens are dotted with picturesque pavilions, fountains, and sculptures, making it the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. During the evening, the entire park is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, adding to the magical ambiance.

Experience the Rides

Tivoli offers a mix of rides, from the gentle to the adrenaline-pumping, catering to all ages. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the Dæmonen (The Demon) is a must-ride. This roller coaster reaches speeds of up to 77 km/h and features loops and twists that will get your heart racing. For something more nostalgic, hop on Rutschebanen, one of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters, which has been thrilling visitors since 1914. It’s a ride that perfectly captures the charm of Tivoli, blending tradition with excitement. 

For a bird’s eye view of Copenhagen, take a spin on the Star Flyer or Fatamorgana , offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. 

If you’re visiting with young children, the Flying Trunk is a delightful ride that takes you through scenes from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales.

Catch a Show

Tivoli is not just about rides; it’s also offers a variety of live performances. The Pantomime Theatre is a unique attraction, offering traditional pantomime shows with no dialogue, where the story is told through mime, dance, and music. The theatre itself is an architectural gem, designed in the style of a Chinese pagoda.

During the summer months, Tivoli’s open-air stage hosts concerts and performances by international artists, as well as the Tivoli Youth Guard’s parades and concerts. The Tivoli Concert Hall is another venue where you can enjoy classical music, ballet, and contemporary performances. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of your visit to see what’s on.

Indulge in the Culinary Delights

Tivoli is home to a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. If you’re looking for a quick bite, try the traditional Danish smørrebrød at one of the park’s cafes. 

During your visit, make sure to indulge in some traditional Danish pastries from Vaffelbageriet, a beloved institution in Tivoli. The freshly made waffles, served with ice cream and jam, are a treat you won’t want to miss.

Explore Tivoli’s Seasonal Events

Tivoli is a year-round destination, with each season bringing its own unique charm. In spring, the gardens come alive with blooming flowers, while summer offers long days and warm nights perfect for outdoor concerts and rides. Autumn transforms Tivoli into a Halloween wonderland, with pumpkins, spooky decorations, and themed events. If you’re visiting during the winter, Tivoli’s Christmas market is a must-see. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive lights, holiday decorations, and cozy stalls selling mulled wine, Christmas ornaments, and gifts.

Tips for Visiting Tivoli

To make the most of your visit to Tivoli, here are some helpful tips:

Timing

Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially during the peak summer months. If you prefer a more romantic and magical experience, visit in the evening when the park is beautifully lit up. We visited just the two of us one evening and it really is magical and we were able to watch the illuminations on the water. It was such a different experience than during the day. 

Plan Your Day

We planned a full day at Tivoli and we thought that was plenty of time. We could have easily done another day. We did everything we wanted however we didn't have time for re-rides which was a shame. Time seemed to fly past so quickly. 

Ride Passes

You can enjoy Tivoli without buying their ride pass however if you’re planning to go on several rides, it’s worth buying an unlimited ride pass. The pass is in the form of a wristband that you scan on the entrance to the ride and it allows you to enjoy as many rides as you like without worrying about individual ticket costs.

Lockers

Tivoli has lockers available for rent if you need to store your belongings. They are located at the main entrance area so easily accessible during the day.  

Carnival Games

We had lots of fun playing the carnival style games where you collect tokens to claim prizes should you win. It was lots of fun however we did get a little carried away as you can pay on card so make sure you stick to your budget!

Tivoli on the Copenhagen Card

One of the best ways to explore Copenhagen is with the Copenhagen Card, which offers free entry to over 80 attractions including Tivoli Gardens. The card is a great value for money, as it includes public transport and access to many of the city's top sights. With the Copenhagen Card, you can enjoy the beautiful gardens, the unique architecture, and the vibrant atmosphere of Tivoli at no additional cost. However, if you're in the mood for some thrilling rides, you can easily purchase a ride pass separately.

We absolutely loved our visit to Tivoli and we are so glad we planned it in to our trip. Seeing Tivoli both during the day and at night is a must and I'm glad we got to experience both. If you do like theme parks then I would definitely recommend a visit, you won't be disappointed.

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Michelle

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A Birds Eye View Of Copenhagen From The Round Tower

A Birds Eye View Of Copenhagen From The Round Tower

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When we booked our trip family trip to Copenhagen I researched all the attractions that could give us a birds eye view of the city. We love seeing a city from above. There are quite a few options  in Copenhagen however the one that stuck out for me was the Round Tower. The Round Tower was built in the 17th-century so is an iconic Copenhagen landmark, however it was the unique feature that made me want to visit it first on our trip.

The Round Tower is exactly that, it's a tower that is round in shape and is 36 meters tall. However this isn't the unique feature that made me want to visit, it's that the Round Tower is unlike any tower of it's time. Instead of having narrow winding staircases to reach the top, the Round Tower has a spiralling path which makes the climb to the top quite pleasant and enjoyable, especially on the knees. 

The spiralling path is a 209 metre long ramp and is made up of 15 sloping floors. Having the ramp to walk up to reach the top makes it a lot more accessible than other observation decks or towers. I did actually research as to why the Round Towers was built that way and it was simply designed  to accommodate horses and carts, which were used to haul heavy equipment and materials to the top of the tower. 

Once you reach the top of the ramp there is however a small staircase. It is quite narrow but very short. It is controlled by a traffic light system to avoid people crossing each other on the steps. It's a great feature and avoiding any awkwardness you sometimes feel when you are trying to squeeze past someone and obviously a lot safer too.

The views from the top of the Round Tower are amazing and you can see all of Copenhagen. We had a drizzly day when we visited however it didn't stop our fun. As you can imagine you can go right the way around so can see Copenhagen from all angles. There is a small shop up there too selling souvenirs and snacks. 

At the very top of the Round Tower lies the observatory, the original purpose of the tower. While it no longer serves as the primary astronomical centre of Denmark, the observatory remains functional and is the oldest working observatory in Europe. Visitors can peer through the telescopes to gaze at the stars and planets much like the astronomers of the past once did. It was closed for cleaning when we visited however John took a sneaky peek at it and grabbed a photo. 

The observatory was crucial to the scientific community in the 17th and 18th centuries. Ole Rømer, one of Denmark’s most famous astronomers, conducted his groundbreaking research on the speed of light. The observatory continued to be a hub for astronomical research until the mid-19th century when advancements in technology and the construction of new observatories made it somewhat obsolete. However, it remains an iconic part of the tower’s legacy.

Beneath the observatory, the Round Tower also housed the university library, which served as a crucial resource for students and scholars at the adjacent university. The library was located in what is now known as the Library Hall, a grand space that spans the length of the tower. This hall was once filled with thousands of books and manuscripts, many of which were rare and invaluable to the academic community.

Today, the Library Hall has been transformed into a cultural venue that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events throughout the year. It’s a space that continues to serve the community, much like it did in the 17th century, but now it caters to a broader audience, attracting both locals and tourists alike. 

The Round Tower is open to visitors all year-round and is one of Copenhagen's most popular attractions. For those planning a visit, the experience of climbing the tower is both educational and enjoyable. The climb really is manageable for most people, thanks to the gentle slope of the spiral ramp, and there are several points along the way where you can stop, catch your breath, and explore.

Information boards along the route provide insight into the tower’s history, architecture, and the scientific achievements that took place there.

The Round Tower was once included in the Copenhagen Card which gives access to attractions across the city however the partnership ceased in April 2024. However please don't let this put you off visiting as it only costs a few pounds to enter at just 40DKK (£4 approx) for adults and 10DKK (£1 approx for children).

We really enjoyed our visit to The Round Tower and there really is no better way to view a city than from above. The Round Tower is centrally located so within walking distance from most places within the city and is close to public transport and also the city's hop on hop off buses.

To view more information including 'What's On' and 'Opening Times' visit The Round Tower

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Michelle

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