Swift Winter Magic at Europa-Park

By IOANNIS DIMITRIADIS

Greeted by the sight of snow-covered Christmas trees, welcomed by the scent of mulled wine, and warmed by the sound of carols, guests to Europa-Park this winter will be enchanted and intrigued in equal measure. The Christmas season at Germany’s largest theme park spans some three months. Visitors will be able to set off on a magical Christmas adventure from 26 November 2016 to 8 January 2017 (except 24/25 December); the park completes the season with a weekend finale from 13 to 15 January 2017.

Europa-Park at Yuletide will be home to breathtaking attractions that sparkle and glisten in between thousands of Christmas balls, colourful presents, magical lights, and romantic log fires. Guests can look forward to a fascinating show programme, lots of winter specials, and festive food − leaving nothing to be wished for. This year, an immersive art exhibition at the Mercedes-Benz Hall, is dedicated to the works of famous illustrator Janosch.

Swift Winter Magic

Numerous attractions whirl fast snow-covered landscapes, providing a captivating experience.* The Spanish Arena plays host to the exhibition MAGIC ICE – The Fabulous Fairy Tale World made of Ice which will leave visitors in awe. More than 30 delicately detailed sculptures measuring up to four metres high invite to embark on a time travel through Europa-Park. Courageous winter adventurers can discover and explore Germany´s largest theme park by ski bob and whirl pirouettes on the large ice skating rink on the lake in the Scandinavian themed area.

For the younger guests there’s chance to leave excited, tiny footprints in the snow that lead to the indoor discovery tour at the Limerick Castle play area. The new, Irish themed area welcomes little explorers, whilst parents may warm up over an Irish coffee at the festive enthused O’Mackay’s Café and Pub.

The 55-meter-high big wheel Bellevue in the Portuguese themed area offers visitors a wonderful view over a Europa-Park winter wonderland. A snow tube hill in France promises tons of fun for both the young and old, whilst the ice bar Glaciar in Spain is the perfect setting for catching some breath.

The huge Advent calendar on the Italian open-air stage is yet another highlight. Accompanied by a festive children´s activity show, a new door opens every evening at 7pm. Little visitors who want to make sure their wishes don’t get lost can visit the post office ‘Gates of Heaven’ in the Russian themed area, where children can deliver their wish list personally. On 30 November 2016, all guests visiting Europa-Park dressed up with a red coat, a pointed cap, and a long white beard can take advantage of a reduced admission price. Adults dressed up as Santa Claus only pay €25, children (aged 4-11) €20.

The Janosch Exhibition

Europa-Park proudly presents over 200 Janosch illustrations at the Mercedes-Benz Hall this winter. Heralded as one of Germany’s most talented children’s book authors and illustrators, young and old alike can seek out some of Janosch’s most cherished characters. Whether Tiger Duck or ‘The Trip to Panama’, the lovingly painted artwork will fascinate the whole family. The exhibition displays paintings, drawings, and graphics that Janosch has produced over the course of six decades. Little Bear, Günter Kastenfrosch and Wondrak, as well as Emil Grünbär and his gang are undoubtedly famous icons which have made the artist a household name all over the world. Several loans from Janosch´s personal collection offer an exclusive glimpse into the world of the artist. The entrance to the exhibition is included in the park admission.

Fantastic Shows

A wide range of shows offer high-class entertainment at Germany’s largest theme park. Dancers, artists, and clowns mesmerize audiences at the magical Circus Revue. The musical play ‘A Musical Christmas Market’ at the Globe Theatre entertains the whole family. The ice show ‘Surpr‘Ice with the Son of Santa Claus’ and the popular children’s musical ‘I want … Christmas Chaos’ are sure to delight attendees. The ‘Winter Startlight Parade’ slowly makes its way through Europa-Park, lighting up spectators’ faces with beaming smiles along the way. A new acrobatics show at the Mercedes-Benz Hall, as well as the light show ‘Luna Magica’ on the lake in the Adventure Land, promise colourful show highlights. Visitors can meet Europa-Park’s mascot, Ed Euromaus, in his mobile home in Ireland – Children´s World and can go on to discover all the secrets of the new indoor play area during the show ‘The Secrets of Limerick Castle’. The 4D Magic Cinema boasts the film adventure ‘Happy Family’.

To see off the year in style Europa-Park hosts a glittering New Year’s party where guests can celebrate the start of 2017 between illuminated rollercoasters and sparkling winter attractions.

The ‘Cirque d’Europe’ dinner show from 17 November 2016 to 12 February 2017 is another highlight. A unique combination of artistic performances, live music, comedy, and an exquisite menu created by 2* Michelin chef Peter Hagen-Wiest from the ‘Ammolite – The Lighthouse Restaurant’ fills an evening with truly unforgettable moments in the decadent surroundings of the Teatro dell’Arte.

Romantic Christmas Markets

The cosy atmosphere, melodic carols and delicious scents of the traditional Christmas market in the historic Balthasar Castle Park invites visitors to go for a winter’s stroll. Age-old profession such as book makers and goldsmiths feature in several tents in the German themed area. Black Forest clocks, clay sculptures, and much more can also be discovered.

When night time falls and Europa-Park is bathed in the light of the moon, torches are lit and log fires are stirred that illuminate the paths and stalls. The Christmas market in the German Alley offers culinary delights such as sausage and cheese specialities, fine chocolates, and spirits from local producers hailing from the length and breadth of Europe.

An Enchanting Stay

For those who cannot get enough of the winter splendour, the five 4* themed hotels offer wonderful nights in an atmospheric ambience. Festive decorations bring out every last dazzling feature of the Europa-Park hotels, while culinary delights and wellness treatments invite guests to indulge, relax and unwind. The rustic and cosy alternative comes in the form of the Camp Resort during the coldest time of the year. Here, on selected dates, more adventurous guests can stay overnight in heated log cabins and experience the very essence of pure winter romance.