Disneyland Paris unveils record-breaking World of Frozen expansion in €2B overhaul
Disneyland Paris has unveiled its largest expansion to date with the opening of World of Frozen. The new immersive land, inspired by the hit animated films, marks the centrepiece of a €2 billion transformation at the resort. Just days into his role as Disney's chief executive, Josh D'Amaro officially launched the attraction on 29 March 2023.
The rebranded park, now called Disney Adventure World, introduces a host of new experiences, from rides to dining and a nighttime drone show. The expansion is also expected to boost local employment, with over 1,000 new jobs planned by 2025. World of Frozen recreates the kingdom of Arendelle around a scenic lagoon, complete with timber buildings in soft Scandinavian colours. Traditional Norwegian rosemaling art adorns the facades, bringing the film's setting to life. During the opening ceremony, D'Amaro described the launch as a 'transformational moment' and acknowledged the creative team, including Frozen writer-director Jennifer Lee.
A highlight of the event was 11-year-old Lou, whose wish was granted by Make-A-Wish France. She joined a next-generation robotic Olaf on stage to perform a few lines of Do You Want to Build a Snowman?. The new land is part of a broader overhaul that includes Adventure Bay, a vast lake, a Tangled-themed family ride, and 15 new dining spots.
Beyond the attractions, the park's nighttime spectacular, Disney Cascade of Lights, features over 380 drones. French President Emmanuel Macron attended the opening and praised Disneyland Paris as 'the leading tourist destination in Europe'. He called the resort 'a genuine ecosystem of success', noting its role in France's tourism sector—6.1% of national revenue—since its 1992 debut.
The parks-and-experiences division remains Disney's most profitable, contributing 57% of the company's $17.5 billion in segment operating income last year. With more than 445 million visits to date, the Paris resort continues to be a major economic driver for the region. The expansion of Disneyland Paris brings new attractions, jobs, and economic benefits to the area. World of Frozen and the rebranded Disney Adventure World aim to draw even more visitors to Europe's top tourist destination. The project reinforces the resort's position as a key player in France's tourism industry.
