The magic of Christmas comes at a high price in Mickey country. Like every year, Disneyland Paris launches its big winter parade. The main characters stroll through the paths of the park, accompanied by large floats and sparkling lights. A joy for young and old alike.
Until then, the most curious gathered many minutes in advance near the barriers, at the edge of the course. First come, first served. But this tradition no longer exists. In fact, Disneyland Paris has decided to create a “reserved zone” around the two stages, facing the castle. And those best seats to watch the glittering Christmas parade come with a… fee.
“We pay to breathe when we go there. Getting worse and worse”
The happiness of one person causes the misfortune of others. Since this year, you have to pay a minimum of 21 euros per person to have the chance to attend the Christmas parade from the front row. In the evening, the price of reservations starts at 24 euros. For big fans of Disneyland Paris, this is a shock. “Shameful, it’s really Scrooge’s park”chants Carine on Facebook. “We pay to breathe when we go there. Getting worse and worse”continues another Internet user. The price of annual passes increases over the years, as do day entry tickets and cord cutters. In 2019, the Discovery annual pass cost only €179, compared to €289 for the Bronze pass (the cheapest) in 2024. So obviously, for regulars, the paid parade is heresy. “Walt Disney must be turning in his grave. He who wanted a park accessible to all”underlines Annabelle on Facebook.
“It’s true that the entrance to the park was not expensive enough…”quips an Internet user on X. “A great joke, it already costs an arm and a leg to go to Disney”launches another. “They are looking everywhere where it is possible to make money.” On social networks, fans of the park can't get over it: “A shame”, “One more reason not to go there anymore”, “Soon they will make us pay for air”, “Given the price of entry, it’s shameful”, “It’s a luxury to go there”…
For some, “as long as it works, there will always be cash cows for Disney”. For others, it is better to head towards other parks like Le Puy du Fou or Europapark. “Disneyland is the magic of money. Nothing else.”
Reduced hours for certain attractions until January 5
And the creation of this paid option isn't the only reason park visitors are angry. Indeed, from November 16, certain attractions will have staggered opening hours. This restriction will be in place until January 5, 2025, and is intended to reduce operational costs. The problem? The end-of-year holiday period remains the busiest time for Disneyland Paris.
In 2023, more than 10 million visitors will pass through the gates of the famous park, an increase of 4.7% compared to the previous year. So will it be the same in the years to come?
