Complete Family Guide: Christmas 2025 in Disneyland Paris
Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Disneyland Paris Christmas Visit with Kids
“Christmas is a time when you get homesick…even when you’re home.”
The beautiful view upon arrival at Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season.
Article updated on November 16, 2025
Theme parks aren't just an activity for our family, they're a passion! After all, we've visited theme parks across three continents, from Universal Studios Singapore and Tokyo Disneyland to Europa-Park in Germany and countless parks in the U.S., including Disney World, Universal Studios, both Busch Gardens parks, and so many more.
Our favorite time to visit is during special events, such as Halloween or Christmas. We thought we'd seen every variation of holiday magic a theme park could offer. When we finally arrived at Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season, we came with high expectations. Could Disneyland Paris really compete with the American parks we knew so well?
The Magic of Disneyland Paris Christmas with Kids in 2025
Imagine stepping into a winter wonderland where Christmas decorations sparkle under twinkling lights, beloved Disney characters don their festive finery, and the spirit of Christmas fills every corner of the most magical amusement parks in Europe.
From November 8th, 2025, to January 6th, 2026, Disneyland Paris transforms into the perfect destination for families seeking an unforgettable Christmas season adventure!
This time of year brings extraordinary magic to both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the Christmas season at Disneyland Paris offers a unique experience that combines the magic of Disney with authentic European Christmas celebrations.
Click on photo to enlarge and see descriptions.
What's New in Disneyland Paris Christmas 2025 for Families
Disneyland Paris has always created a wonderfully festive holiday atmosphere during this special event. That said, they work diligently to enhance their offerings and provide a fresh experience that keeps guests returning year after year. Whether you’re a first time visitor or making your annual Christmas visit, there’s something new to excite and captivate.
Based on official announcements, here are the exciting additions for 2025 that will make your visit even more magical!
Mrs. Claus Makes Her Debut
For the first time, Mrs. Claus will join Santa Claus at Disneyland Paris during the 2025 Christmas season, bringing even more holiday cheer to families visiting during this festive season.
Enhanced Princess Meet & Greets
Starting from November 15, 2025, Disney Princess character moments will be available once a day, featuring Disney Princesses in the Castle Courtyard with Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip, plus additional princess encounters in Central Plaza.
Virtual Queue System for Character Interactions
From April 18, 2025, Disneyland Paris has enhanced the guest experience with virtual queues for select character meet-and-greets. This helps to make character interactions more convenient for families with young children or those seeking to maximize their park schedule.
Must-See Christmas Events: Parades, Shows, & Lights
From our experience visiting Disneyland Paris during the holiday season, these events truly capture the magic of Christmas in ways that left our family speechless. Each show and parade offers something special that you simply can't find at other Disney parks.
Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade
Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade remains the crown jewel of Disney Enchanted Christmas. This spectacular parade features five gigantic, illuminated floats over six meters high, each weighing 12–15 tons.
With 380 costumes and appearances by Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, and other beloved Disney characters, this parade makes its way down Main Street U.S.A. twice every evening during the Christmas season. It captures the spirit of the season like no other entertainment at Disney parks.
"Let's Sing Christmas!" Musical Show
Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, and special guests in this delightful musical show that brings Christmas music to life. It's a perfect opportunity for the whole family to sing along and create magical moments together.
Magical Christmas Tree Lighting
Standing 24 meters (78 feet) tall in Town Square, the giant Christmas tree serves as the centerpiece of Main Street's Christmas decorations. Each evening, guests can watch as beloved Disney characters illuminate this magnificent tree. It’s a heartwarming ceremony filled with Christmas music and joy. This event will take place nightly, beginning on November 21, 2025.
Special Character Meet & Greets
Throughout both parks, you'll find Disney Princesses and other characters dressed in their festive finery, ready for character meet-and-greets.
From Mickey Mouse to Santa Claus himself, these encounters are essential for families creating magical moments. Here are the character meet locations for Christmas 2025:
Town Square: Mickey and friends in special Christmas costumes
Critter Coral in Frontierland: Jack Skellington
Central Plaza: Disney Princess meet-and-greets
Fantasyland: Chip & Dale
Castle Courtyard: Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip encounter
Insider Tip: This year, access to specific Disney Character experiences, including Jack Skellington, Stitch, as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus, will require you to join the virtual queue from the Disneyland Paris App on the day of your visit.
Best Disneyland Paris Christmas Attractions for Kids
We found Disneyland Paris to be much more laid-back than our previous experiences at Disney World Orlando, which made our Christmas-time visit incredibly relaxed and enjoyable. The festive atmosphere enhances every attraction, even without seasonal overlays.
Disneyland Park Christmas 2025 Highlights
Sleeping Beauty Castle: Beautifully illuminated with Christmas lights and festive decorations
Big Thunder Mountain: Enhanced with seasonal lighting
Phantom Manor: Spooky fun with a winter twist
It's a Small World: Features winter scenes and Christmas decorations
Walt Disney Studios Park
Walt Disney Studios Park also celebrates the Christmas season with festive decorations throughout, creating a cohesive and magical experience across both parks.
With the exception of the Ratatouille ride, we rarely waited longer than 20–30 minutes for any attraction. This relaxed pace allowed us to truly soak in the holiday spirit without feeling rushed.
Kid-Friendly Disneyland Paris Christmas Treats & Dining
The winter festivities bring incredible flavors to Disneyland Paris, with each restaurant beautifully decorated for the season. We strongly recommend trying the unique European Christmas celebration treats that you won't find at other Disney parks.
Les Chalets Gourmands
Visit Les Chalets Gourmands located throughout both parks for Christmas-time specialties. These festive food stalls offer:
Mickey-shaped gingerbread
Traditional European pretzels and churros
Hot chocolate and warm drink options for chilly days
Mulled wine for adults
Special seasonal treats like chestnut mousse
Christmas Ambiance at Restaurants
Every restaurant celebrates the Christmas season with Christmas trees and decorations, creating the perfect dining atmosphere. Many locations offer special holiday menus featuring traditional European flavors.
Planning Disneyland Paris Christmas with Kids
Having visited Disneyland Paris during both peak and off-peak periods, we've learned valuable lessons about timing and preparation. The experience can vary dramatically depending on when you visit and how well you prepare for the European winter weather.
Visit During Optimal Times
Early November offers a great time to experience Disney Enchanted Christmas with smaller crowds, while late November through Christmas Day represents peak times. For the best experience:
Aim for weekdays, especially before December 21st, when French school holidays begin
Early morning visits provide shorter wait times
Stay until after dark to fully appreciate the Christmas lights and evening entertainment
Prepare for the Weather
As with most Christmas celebrations in Europe, the weather can be variable. Temperatures can range from moderate to cold, and pop-up rain showers can occur. Be sure to pack some or all of the following to make the most of your Disneyland Paris Enchanted Christmas visit.
Hand warmers for cold days
Rain gear for typical December weather
Extra layers for young children
Comfortable walking shoes for long park days
Take Advantage of the Disneyland Paris App
The Disneyland Paris App proved invaluable during our visit, featuring numerous great tools that helped make our experience seamless. We found it especially useful for managing our day without feeling rushed.
These essential app features will enhance your Christmas visit:
Live wait times for attractions
Disney Premier Access purchases (though we found it unnecessary during our visits)
Restaurant reservations
Show and parade schedules
Interactive park maps
Character meet location updates and virtual queues are available for select characters, including Santa and Jack Skellington.
Manage Your Wait Times
We were pleasantly surprised to find both Disneyland Paris parks much more laid-back than our previous experiences at Disney World in Orlando. It was relatively uncrowded and so relaxed that we didn't see a need to spend extra money on Disney Premier Access to skip lines.
That said, the option exists if you prefer it. Here are the two levels of Disney Premier Access available at Disneyland Paris:
Premier One: Skip the line for one ride during a specified one-hour timeslot (prices start at €5, available only after park entry)
Premier Ultimate: Access to all Premier Access rides except Orbitron can be purchased in advance or in-park
Insider Tip: The longest waits are typically for character meet-and-greets, which do not offer Premier Access, so plan your visit accordingly. (Remember that select popular characters now require usage of the Virtual Queue system via the Disneyland Paris App.)
Disneyland Paris Christmas Tickets – Skip the Lines, Maximize the Magic
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Disneyland Paris Christmas Shopping & Souvenirs
While we're full-time travelers and need to be mindful of our limited luggage space, we couldn't resist picking up some unique items that you can only find during this magical time of year. The shopping at Disneyland Paris during Christmas time offers truly special keepsakes. Don’t miss these exclusive holiday-themed items:
Limited-edition Christmas ornaments
Plush characters in their Christmas-themed costumes
Holiday-themed Mickey ears and clothing
Special Disneyland Paris Monopoly edition
Seasonal housewares and collectibles
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Where to Stay: Disneyland Paris Hotels & Partner Hotels
Choosing where to stay can significantly impact your Disneyland Paris experience during the busy holiday season. The great thing about this beautiful European park, just like most Disney parks around the world, is that there is no shortage of options. Whether you want to dive headfirst into the Disney magic for your entire Enchanted Christmas visit or you’d rather find a happy medium, there is an option that will suit your family.
Top Disney Hotel Options
Disneyland Paris boasts eight unique properties that extend the magic and holiday atmosphere beyond the park itself. Staying on-property at a Disney Hotel provides the ultimate experience with benefits including Extra Magic Hours for early park access and free parking at both the hotel and the parks. They also offer easy access via a short walk or a shuttle, meaning that you don’t have to bother with a rental car at all!
While we won’t dive into all of the Disney Hotel properties available at Disneyland Paris, here is a quick overview of four of the most popular:
Disneyland Hotel: The five-star luxury option located at the park entrance was recently renovated, offering exclusive experiences such as "My Royal Dream" princess makeovers and supervised childcare for children aged 4–11.
Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel: This Marvel-themed, four-star hotel features artwork inspired by superheroes and themed suites, just a 10-minute walk from the parks. It’s the perfect spot for all aspiring young heroes!
Disney Sequoia Lodge: The three-star lodge-style hotel is situated among the trees. It’s the ideal location for the Christmas period with rustic decorations and cozy fireplaces.
Disney Hotel Santa Fe: The most budget-friendly Disney option features Cars-themed rooms and Tex-Mex dining. If you’re looking to do Disneyland Paris on a budget while still going all-in on the Disney experience, this is the hotel for your family!
Disneyland Paris Partner Hotels: Our Top Pick
From our personal experience, the Disneyland Partner hotels offer a better value for budget-minded families. You’ll receive fewer expensive perks, but still enjoy some Disney magic, along with complimentary parking at the hotels (and the parks) and free shuttle service to the parks.
Here are some of the top Disney Parter Hotel options:
B&B Hotel Marne-La-Vallée: Located in a beautiful countryside setting and offering a complimentary buffet breakfast, this hotel has become our go-to choice whenever we visit Disneyland Paris. We love that all five of us can comfortably sleep in one room!
Hôtel l'Elysée Val d'Europe: A four-star Parisian-style hotel, conveniently located near a mall for simple access to shopping, including grocery stores (a great way to reduce your food expenses).
Staycity Aparthotels Paris, Marne-La-Vallée: A four-star accommodation, located in a natural setting. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchenette, making it easy to stock snacks and meals. Studio options can sleep up to four people, while family apartments can accommodate up to five people.
Ki Space Hotel & Spa: This hotel features a spa, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and terrace. Additional facilities include a hot tub, sauna, solarium, and games room, ensuring a pleasant and active stay.
Aparthotel Adagio Val d’Europe: Located a 3-km drive from Disneyland Paris via a complimentary shuttle service, Aparthotel Adagio Val d'Europe, near Disneyland Paris, offers modern apartments with balconies. An indoor swimming pool is available, and complimentary fiber-optic Internet is provided throughout all areas.
There are also three non-partner hotels close to the Disneyland Paris Parks:
Campanile Val de France: This hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to Disneyland Paris, located approximately 10 minutes away. It features a merry-go-round and a video games room.
Explorers Fabulous Hotel Group: This hotel is just 1.2 mi from the theme park. This family-oriented hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to the theme park and features a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Dream Castle Hotel Marne La Vallée: Offering a free shuttle service to Disneyland Paris, Dream Castle Hotel Marne La Vallée is surrounded by a lake and gardens, and its facilities include an indoor pool and a spa.
Getting to Disneyland Paris Christmas with Kids
Efficient transportation planning can save you both time and money, ensuring you arrive ready to enjoy the Christmas magic rather than feeling stressed from complicated travel logistics, especially with kids.
Having navigated the process of getting to Disney parks across different countries, we've learned that understanding all your transportation options helps you choose what works best for your family's schedule and budget.
Getting to Disneyland Paris is surprisingly convenient, especially compared to other Disney parks around the world. Based on our experience using various transportation methods, we strongly recommend taking the train or shuttle rather than driving and parking.
From Charles de Gaulle Airport to Christmas at Disneyland Paris
TGV High-Speed Train: The TGV train station is conveniently located adjacent to the CDG Airport. Several kiosks are available for purchasing tickets (don’t worry, if you need help, workers are nearby to assist you). Once you board the train, it will take less than 15 minutes to reach Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy station, where the Disney Parks can be reached in just a 2-minute walk!
Magical Shuttle Bus: Direct service to Disney Hotels and partner hotels. For pricing and to book your reservation, visit the Magical Shuttle website. The Magical Shuttle can also provide service to the Disney Parks from the Orly Airport (ORY).
From Central Paris to Christmas at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris Express: The Disneyland Paris Express offers shuttle service from five convenient locations in Paris city center, including Gare du Nord, the Eiffel Tower, and the Opéra. This service can be added when you purchase your Disney Park ticket. On the day of your scheduled visit, simply present your ticket (printed or on your mobile phone) when boarding the coach.
RER A Train: The RER A Regional train line offers a direct route to Disneyland Paris from multiple stations, including Châtelet-Les Halles, Gare de Lyon, and Nation. Just purchase a ticket to Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy from one of the ticket machines, find your platform, take the train to the last stop, and exit near the entrance to Disneyland Paris.
Parking Information
Self-parking is available in the Disney Car Park for visitors to both theme parks and Disney Village. If you’re not staying at a Disney Hotel or a Disney Partner Hotel, be prepared to pay at least €30–€40 per day for parking, depending on the size of your vehicle.
After renting cars across Europe, here's our honest take: you don't need a rental car for Disneyland Paris.
That said, a rental car DOES make sense if you're:
Planning day trips to Paris, Versailles, or the Champagne region
Visiting from other parts of France/Europe
Traveling with grandparents or anyone with mobility issues
Doing a multi-city trip before/after Disneyland
If you do need a car, we recommend Discover Cars. We've used them for our travels across France and Germany. They compare over 900 rental companies to find the best prices, and their full coverage insurance gives you peace of mind when traveling with kids (and your belongings!).
Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for the best rates, as prices during the Christmas season jump significantly.
>>>>> Compare Car Rental Prices for Your Dates <<<<<
Making the Most of Your Disneyland Paris Enchanted Christmas
After multiple visits to Disneyland Paris, we've learned that the key to a magical experience is striking a balance between planning and spontaneity. The magic of Christmas truly comes alive here when you allow yourself to be swept up in the moment, while still being prepared for the practical aspects.
Family-Friendly Strategies
Download the Disneyland Paris App before arrival (it made our planning so much easier)
Consider Disney Premier Access for popular attractions during peak times (though we found it unnecessary)
Plan character meetings using virtual queues (a game-changer for avoiding disappointment)
Build in rest time for young children (the European winter can be tiring)
Stay flexible with your schedule to embrace spontaneous magical moments (some of our best memories were unplanned!)
Don't try to do everything; we found it more enjoyable to slow down and truly experience fewer attractions.
Family Selfie at the Disneyland Paris Park entrance.
Budget Considerations
While Disney Premier Access is available for purchase, many families find standard wait times manageable, especially when compared to those at other Disney parks worldwide. We certainly did!
Focus your budget on experiences that matter most to your family. For us, that typically means character dining and special treats rather than line-skipping.
Creating Lasting Memories
Remember that while planning is important, leave room for spontaneity as well. Some of our most cherished memories from Disneyland Paris during Christmas time were the unexpected moments: catching snowfall during the parade, finding a quiet spot to enjoy hot chocolate, or discovering a character meet we hadn't planned for.
Adult selfie in front of the Disneyland Paris Christmas tree.
Why Christmas is the Perfect Time to Visit Disneyland Paris
From our experience visiting Disneyland Paris during different seasons, the Christmas period truly stands out as something extraordinary. The magic of Christmas here offers something you simply cannot find at other amusement parks: a perfect blend of Disney wonder with authentic European Christmas traditions.
Unlike other Disney parks we've visited, the combination of European charm with Disney magic creates an atmosphere that feels both familiar and wonderfully unique. From the moment you walk down Main Street, lined with its festive decorations, to experiencing Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade, every moment captures the spirit of Christmas in a way that leaves your family speechless.
Ready to experience the magic of Christmas at Disneyland Paris? Start planning your Christmas holidays today for the ultimate festive fun at Europe's most magical destination!
We'd love to hear about your plans or favorite memories. If you know other families planning a Disneyland Paris trip, please share this guide to make their planning easier!
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Frequently Asked Questions: Disneyland Paris Christmas with Kids
When does the Christmas season start at Disneyland Paris?
Disney Enchanted Christmas runs from November 8, 2025, to January 6, 2026. This gives families nearly two months to experience the holiday magic at both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. The best times to visit are early November for smaller crowds or mid-December for the whole festive atmosphere. However, avoid December 21 onward, when French school holidays begin and crowds peak.
Is Disneyland Paris open on Christmas Day?
Yes! Disneyland Paris is open every day of the year, including Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. However, December 25th doesn't feature any special events beyond what's already offered throughout the entire Christmas season. You'll experience the same magical parades, character meets, and tree lighting ceremonies as any other day during Disney Enchanted Christmas. Hotel prices are typically highest from December 23 to 26, so consider visiting earlier in the season for a better value.
How crowded is Disneyland Paris at Christmas with kids?
Based on our visits and research, Disneyland Paris during the Christmas season is significantly less crowded than Disney World in Orlando during the holidays. We rarely waited longer than 20-30 minutes for attractions (except Ratatouille). The park feels relaxed and manageable, even with young children in tow. For the best experience:
Visit weekdays before December 21 (when French school holidays begin)
Arrive early for shorter morning wait times
Avoid December 23–26 (absolute peak period)
Late November through mid-December offers a nice balance of festive atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.
What's the best age for kids to visit Disneyland Paris at Christmas?
Ages 2-10 are ideal for Disneyland Paris Christmas. The holiday atmosphere appeals to young children who still believe in the magic, while older kids enjoy the attractions and shows. Here's what works for different ages:
Toddlers (2-3): Love character meets, simple rides, and the sensory magic of decorations
Preschoolers (4-6): Perfect age for everything: parades, Santa visits, and gentle attractions
Elementary (7-11): Enjoy more thrilling rides while still embracing Christmas magic
Teens (12+): Will enjoy the festive atmosphere and unique European Christmas vibe
Our family of five, with kids ranging from tween to young adult, found everything enjoyable!
Where should we stay for Disneyland Paris Christmas with kids on a budget?
Our top pick: B&B Hotel at Marne-La-Vallée. Here's why we return every visit:
All five of us sleep comfortably in one room (huge for larger families)
Complimentary buffet breakfast included
Free shuttle to the parks
Free parking at the hotel
Beautiful countryside setting
Significant savings compared to Disney hotels (typically €100-150+ per night less)
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