ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS TIME

Get an extra dose of festive cheer with a magical break at Disneyland Paris

- ANNA BAILEY

It’s the most magical time of the year, so what better place to celebrate than the most magical place on earth? Or Europe, at least. Disneyland Paris transforms into a festive wonderland over Christmas and the New Year. As it’s a relatively easy hop across the channel by plane, train, or car, it’s perfect for a last-minute Christmas getaway. Serving up a blend of old favourites and exciting new spectacles, the 31-year-old resort caters to everyone from little ones to big kids. Not to mention, it’s a magnet for celebs, with everyone from Elton John and Mariah Carey to Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne, and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie passing through its gates since it opened in 1992.

WHAT TO DO

Why not give Jools’ Annual Hootenanny a miss and bid farewell to 2023 Disney style? See in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display at Disneyland Park or an epic party at Walt Disney Studios Park – both open until 1 am.

Fancy a singalong? New show Let’s Sing Christmas! runs several times a day at the Videopolis Theater. Think Christmas carol service meets karaoke as a screen displays the lyrics in real-time, so there’s no excuse for even the Grinch of the family not to join in alongside Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy.

And don’t miss Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade. This trademark show – featuring Mickey and friends, the Disney princesses and Father Christmas – is something to behold as nearly 100 performers dance along Main Street USA. It’s even more impressive at night when five elaborately decorated floats – towering 6 metres high – light up the park.