After spending an amazing week at a photography workshop in Paris, I stayed two extra days for some additional exploring. All credit goes to my husband because I wouldn’t have stayed without his suggestion. It was already an expensive trip and I couldn’t bare to ask for any additional time. When he said I should stay another day or two to explore, I almost died of joy. We had a good laugh when I told him, and I quote, “Honestly, if I stay an extra day, I’m going to do the most American thing a person could possibly do in Paris, and go to Disneyland!” He laughed, and then went on Amazon and bought me a Disneyland Paris guide book! I love him SO MUCH!
Of all the luck, it was the start of the 25th Anniversary celebration! Disneyland Paris has two parks; Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios. I bought myself a one day park hopper with the intention of just enjoying being there and seeing what was different from Walt Disney World and Disneyland here in the states.
I’m going to talk about some of the highlights from the Disneyland Paris 25th Anniversary. I didn’t get to see all of the special festivities because for part of the day I was at the Walt Disney Studios which is not technically part of the celebration (though there were a few little reminders it was going on at that park’s entrance). I’ll definitely be sharing tons more highlights and tips here on the blog and in my Instagram feed. I took an unreasonable amount of photos and I could talk on just Sleeping Beauty Castle, for multiple posts! But for now, here’s the down low on some of the 25th Anniversary highlights.
It’s Time to Sparkle
This is the tagline for the celebration and they did up the decor with sparkles galore. From sparkly blue bunting and shimmering landscaping to blinged out shop windows, it’s hard not to get in the spirit.
Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain
Formerly Space Mountain: Mission 2, this ride was refurbished to a Star Wars theme and it’s freakin awesome! I was super bummed to not have my Star Wars loving husband on this with me, but it’s just another reason to go back. This isn’t like the Space Mountain at Walt Disney World with it’s winding track and short, jumpy little hills (which I love). This is a roller coaster! As you swerve through the track at 60mph, you’ll find yourself dodging Imperial TIE Fighters and approaching a Star Destroyer. It’s pretty fantastic! If you’re a fan of Rock n Roller Coaster, you’ll love this ride.
Star Tours: The Adventures Continue
This 3D attraction is just like the one at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. It’s got 70+ possible mission combinations that could take you anywhere from Naboo to the Death Star. I found myself on Tatooine. If you can handle a 3D motion ride, definitely don’t miss this one.
Disney Illuminations
I don’t even know where to start. I don’t know that I can definitively say this is the best nighttime Disney spectacular I’ve ever seen, but presently, I’d say it’s at least tied for the top spot. Grab yourself a cafe americano or a box of popcorn and post up for this show. It might be tempting to tackle rides during this time, but I’m so glad I didn’t. Even with my less than ideal viewpoint, it was still spectacular and a magical way to end my day at the parks.
The 25th Anniversary festivities go on through early September 2018, so there’s still time to book your trip! If you need help or have questions, my good friend Katie (we actually met when we were Cast Members together at WDW) is a AAA Magic Creator and has an awesome Facebook group to assist you in your Disney vacation planning!
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If you want to stick around a little longer, check out the Disneyland Paris Proposal I captured for Alicia and Teylor!
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