Disney has officially launched a monumental €2 billion expansion at its Paris resort, marking a significant transformation of Walt Disney Studios Park into the newly named Disney Adventure World. The centrepiece of this ambitious project is the immersive World of Frozen, which opened to the public on Sunday, 29 March 2026.
A Nordic Fantasy Comes to Life
Visitors to Disneyland Paris can now step into the beloved kingdom of Arendelle from the hit film "Frozen." This enchanting new land features a picturesque lagoon, a charming Nordic village, and an interactive robotic snowman, creating a fully immersive experience. Guests can enjoy the Frozen Ever After boat ride and meet iconic characters Anna and Elsa in person.
Extensive Park Redesign
The expansion represents a comprehensive overhaul of the resort's second park, with more than 90% of the area redesigned since its original opening in 2002. In addition to World of Frozen, the relaunch introduces a vast central lake, a new attraction based on "Tangled," and 15 fresh dining options to cater to diverse tastes.
A highlight of the new offerings is a spectacular nighttime show that Disney claims utilises the world's first combined aquatic and aerial drone system. This innovative display promises to dazzle audiences with cutting-edge technology and breathtaking visuals.
Embracing European Heritage
Disney's choice to anchor the new lineup with "Frozen" and "Tangled" is no coincidence. Both stories are deeply rooted in European folklore, with "Frozen" loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen's "The Snow Queen" and "Tangled" drawing from the Brothers Grimm's Rapunzel.
Michel den Dulk, vice president and creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, emphasised this connection, stating, "'Frozen' has its roots in European storytelling. To have a northern European, charming wooden little village here in Disneyland Paris just made sense."
From Controversy to Success
The park's journey has been remarkable. When it opened in 1992 as Euro Disney, it faced withering criticism from French intellectuals who labelled it a "cultural Chernobyl." Today, Disney reports that the resort has attracted 445 million visits and supports 70,000 jobs, solidifying its status as a major economic and cultural hub.
French President Emmanuel Macron, during a visit to the park on Friday, hailed the resort as "the leading tourist destination in Europe." He also highlighted that the expansion would create 1,000 direct jobs, further boosting the local economy.
Global Expansion Strategy
The Paris investment is part of a broader global strategy, with Disney reportedly planning a roughly $60 billion expansion of its parks and experiences business. This segment generated 57% of the company's segment operating income in fiscal 2025, underscoring its critical role in Disney's overall success.
The launch of Disney Adventure World and World of Frozen not only enhances the guest experience but also reinforces Disneyland Paris's position as a premier destination for families and tourists from across Europe and beyond.
