Disneyland Paris is magical at any time of year, but there’s something extra special about visiting during one of its seasonal events. Halloween and Christmas are the two most popular options for families, each offering a very different atmosphere, pace, and overall experience.
We’ve experienced both seasons, and both are brilliant in their own way, but which is best for your family?. If you’re trying to decide which one works best for your family, here’s an honest, side-by-side look at what to expect from crowds and costs to weather, entertainment, and overall vibe.
Halloween at Disneyland Paris
Halloween at Disneyland Paris
Halloween at Disneyland Paris usually runs from the beginning of October to early November (Dates for each year should be confirmed with DLP directly). and leans much more towards playful, spooky fun than anything scary. Think pumpkins, villains, mischievous music, and bright autumn colours rather than full-on fright nights.
From the moment you step onto Main Street, U.S.A., the atmosphere feels different. Pumpkin garlands line the streets, spooky music plays softly in the background, and villains pop up for character meets. It’s fun, cheeky, and perfect for younger children who want a “spooky but safe” Disney experience.
Unlike some other Disney parks, attractions don’t receive overlays at Disneyland Paris, but rides like the scary Phantom Manor and Big Thunder Mountain feel especially atmospheric during this season thanks to darker evenings and themed surroundings.
Also, unlike the US parks, Disneyland Paris does not have special ticketed Halloween events.
Pros of Visiting at Halloween
Halloween Decor
Halloween or Christmas at Disneyland Paris
Halloween at DLP is light-hearted rather than scary, making it ideal for families with younger children. The decorations, music, and villain appearances add excitement without being overwhelming.
There is also usually some seasonal treats for Halloween as well as the recent addition of the Lucky Nugget restaurant transformation to the Unlucky Nugget.
Special Character Meet and Greets
Virtual Queue for Jack Skellington and Sally at Disneyland Paris
Halloween is a great time to visit for those who meeting characters is a priority. We were at Disney this Halloween and special characters we saw (by comparison to summer) included:
- Jack Skellington and Sally – they are only out for Halloween to Christmas. Note: these were on a virtual queue so prepare for disappointment as they are tricky to get a slot for.
- Villains – there was a villain courtyard in Fantasyland, and we managed to see Gaston, the evil stepsisters, the evil stepmother, Maleficent, and the Evil Queen. I’ve never managed to meet these characters outside of the Halloween season at DLP.
- Traditional Characters in Unique Outfits – Mickey and friends still meet during the Halloween period; however, they will often be dressed up in their Halloween costumes – but don’t worry, they aren’t scary costumes at all.
Note: many people worry that the villains being out will reduce the number of princesses available, but these are unaffected by the villains’ presence.
Parade
Halloween doesn’t have special shows, however, it does usually have a fabulous Halloween parade featuring Mickey and friends as well as Melanie Ravenswood from the Phantom Manor!
Special Food and Souvenirs
Halloween souvenirs at Disneyland Paris
As with all special seasons at Disneyland Paris, Halloween brings seasonal eats and souvenirs.
Cost
Outside of school holiday weeks, Halloween can be a more budget-friendly time to visit, with lower hotel prices and better availability compared to December.
Cons of Visiting at Halloween
Unpredictable Weather
October in Paris can be chilly and rainy. You might get crisp autumn sunshine — or you might need waterproofs all day. However if weather is a main factor in your trip you would be better visiting outside of Halloween or Christmas
Less “Wow Factor” Than Christmas
While fun, Halloween doesn’t quite have the same jaw-dropping transformation that Christmas brings in my opinion.
Christmas at Disneyland Paris
If Halloween is playful and mischievous, Christmas at Disneyland Paris is pure magic. From mid-November through early January, the entire resort transforms into a festive wonderland, and it genuinely feels like stepping into a Christmas film.
Christmas at Disneyland Paris / Disneyland Paris Christmas Day
Main Street, U.S.A. steals the show, with twinkling lights, garlands, festive shop windows, and a towering Christmas tree. Seasonal music plays everywhere, and there’s often artificial snowfall drifting down in the evenings — a moment that stops families in their tracks every single time.
The Christmas parade and stage shows add a huge amount of value to a winter visit, and character meet-and-greets feel extra special with festive outfits and backdrops.
Unmatched Atmosphere
Christmas at Disneyland Paris / visiting Disneyland Paris in December
If you’re looking for peak Disney magic, Christmas is it. The transformation is stunning, and the festive details are everywhere.
Best Seasonal Entertainment of the Year
Disneyland Paris Christmas Day / Visiting Disneyland Paris is December – Disneyland Paris at Christmas
The Christmas parade, shows, and themed entertainment are some of the best Disneyland Paris offers all year. As well as the traditional shows and parades, there are Christmas parades and shows such as Sing along with Mickey, and sometimes shows with princesses in front of the castle.
But my favourite thing of all is watching the snow fall on Main Street during the Parade.
Seasonal Character Meet and Greets
Like with Halloween, there are special character meet and greets with characters like Mickey, Stitch and Winnie the Pooh friends dressed in Christmas clothes. It is also possible to meet Jack Skellington in his Sandy Claws outfit. Again, this year, this meet was a virtual queue, which is not guaranteed.
Also if you are visiting before Christmas Day Santa is also a meet and greet in the park. He was also a virtual queue this year and was tricky to get however.
Cozy Seasonal Food, Treats and Souvenirs
Hot chocolate, festive snacks, and seasonal desserts make cold park days feel warm and comforting. But be aware that if you are visiting at Christmas Eve and Christmas Day there is a premium for table service dining.
Cons of Visiting at Christmas
Christmas at Disneyland Paris / visiting Disneyland Paris in December
Very Busy, Especially in Late December
The weeks around Christmas and New Year are some of the busiest of the year, with longer queues and fuller restaurants. The parks during the Christmas school holidays will often be at capacity and can sell out months before. If you are visiting at this time, we strongly advise that you buy your park tickets well in advance of travel to avoid disappointment.
Higher Prices
Hotel and ticket prices are generally at their highest during the Christmas season, especially for Disney hotels.
Cold Weather
Is the Disneyland Paris photopass worth it?
December in Paris is cold, and long waits outdoors can be tough without the right clothing. Layers, waterproofs and thermals are essential for your DLP packing list.
So which should you pick?
While I really love Halloween, especially the chance to meet the villains my absolute favorite time to visit DLP is at Christmas. For me the magic of Disney comes even more alive at Christmas. Which one appeals to you more?