La Tanière du Dragon reopened after a long refurbishment

La Tanière du Dragon located under Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant closed unannounced before the summer season of 2011. All entrances were fenced off and some fans even speculated it was over and out for what once was the largest Audio-Animatronic ever build. Too expensive to maintain, security and safety issues were rumoured on online boards.

But then all construction fences were removed early December and guests were once again able to explore the dark dungeon under the Castle. It turned out the lighting and the animatronic received an extensive refurbishment, bringing the smooth movements of the dragon back to its original glory as it was in 1992.

We captured a multi-angle video last week:

The photo album has been updated with brand new photos as well:

Disney’s Magical Moments Festival already making way for 20th

Although an end date of Disney’s Magical Moments Festival has never been officially announced, it’s common for Disneyland Paris to have it end a couple of weeks before the new theme year begins. This year however, it all seems to end much earlier. Why is that? Well most likely due to the fact the entertainment department is preparing for the 20th Anniversary (like the complete removal of the Central Plaza Stage) and in some cases most likely due to low guest satisfaction.

We’ve put together a gallery slide-show with all the end dates, but if you can’t wait, scroll down for a complete list.

Magical Moments that will stop after 9 January 2012:

Magical Moments that will stop after 4 March 2012:

  • Disney’s Once Upon a Dream Parade interactive stops
  • Following the Leader with Peter Pan
  • Meet Rapunzel from Walt Disney Pictures’ Tangled (although Rapunzel will likely be moved to the Princess Pavilion)

Magical Moments that will continue during the 20th Anniversary:

  • Disney Princesses a Royal Invitation (Princess Pavilion)
  • Smile and Say “Cheese” with Remy and Emile
  • Aladdin’s Magic Lamp
  • Share the Love with wall•E and Eve
  • Adventureland rhythms of the jungle
  • Monster Inc Screaming Academy (though already in the park since 2006)
  • Moteurs…Actions! Stunt Show Spectacular Featuring Lightning McQueen

The following Disney’s Once upon a Dream Parade floats will be rethemed for the 20th Anniversary parade (Disney Magic on Parade)

  • Dreams of Imagination( Mickey and friends): from 9 January 2012
  • Dreams of Romance 2 (Princess unit with the Castle): from 16 January 2012

Take these dates in consideration when planning your trip!

“it’s a small world celebration” photos and video

This year the ever popular “it’s a small world celebration” returns with new music, new costumes and all new lighting effects on the attraction’s façade.

In this Christmas layover, dozens of “it’s a small world” dolls are dressed up in native seasonal clothing and additional props and lighting is added. Saint-Nicholas (Belgium & Holland), Lucia (Sweden), Ded Moroz (Russia) and many more can be found among the children of the world.