Prepare to be swept away on a wild adventure as Disneyland Paris transforms into a vibrant jungle paradise this summer with the exhilarating Lion King & Jungle Festival.
Get ready to be captivated by the awe-inspiring The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands show at the recently renovated Frontierland Theatre. Singers, dancers, and acrobats will dazzle you with their captivating performances, all set to a medley of iconic music from the beloved film and the West End stage production. From the unforgettable “Circle of Life” to the cheerful “Hakuna Matata,” this spectacular show will have you humming along and feeling nostalgic. The show’s 30-minute runtime is perfectly balanced, leaving you wanting more without feeling rushed.
This adaptation of the stage musical breathes new life into the timeless story. The music by Tim Rice and Elton John has been masterfully reimagined, and the acrobatic feats and dance routines are flawlessly executed. It’s a testament to the artistry and dedication of the creative team, making it one of the best theme park shows I’ve ever seen.
The standing ovations at the end of each performance are a testament to the show’s captivating nature. Show director Christophe Leclercq explains the heart of the production: “The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands is truly rooted in rhythm. With composer Steve Sidwell, we wanted to showcase African traditions while incorporating a modern twist with fresh rhythms and tempos, all while maintaining the utmost respect. We’ve also included four live percussionists on stage, adding an extra layer of depth to the music.”
Beyond the Pride Lands: A Jungle Book Adventure Awaits
The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands is just the beginning of the immersive experience that awaits you at Disneyland Paris. The festival includes a vibrant Jungle Book Jive Parade that winds its way through Main Street USA, passing in front of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Get ready for a colourful spectacle as you encounter beloved characters from The Jungle Book, including the lovable Baloo and the mischievous King Louie. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck, and Goofy in this unforgettable parade that celebrates the magic of Disney. The parade features captivating Indian dancing and music, culminating in a dazzling powder paint finale reminiscent of the joyous Hindu festival of Holi.
Farida Chakouki, the festival’s producer, describes the parade’s essence: “Jungle Book Jive is a vibrant and unique exploration of the Indian jungle. It’s a grand musical show that breathes new life into the rhythm of the jungle in a completely fresh way. Our goal is to fully immerse our visitors in a celebration of India and The Jungle Book.”
Immersive Experiences: Where the Jungle Comes Alive
Beyond the main shows, the festival offers numerous opportunities to interact with your favourite characters and immerse yourself in the jungle’s heart. In Adventureland, the hilarious duo Timon and Pumbaa lead their own dance troupe, inviting guests to join in their infectious Timon’s MataDance.
The brand-new Djembe Joy village, open daily until 2 pm, offers an interactive experience unlike any other. Visitors can learn how to play musical instruments and meet more of the Jungle Festival characters. It’s a perfect spot to unleash your inner rhythm and connect with the vibrant spirit of the festival.
Special Experiences for Lion King Enthusiasts
For those who wish to experience the Lion King magic in an even more exclusive way, Disneyland Paris presents the Pride Lands Experience. This special package, available until September 20, offers a premium seat for The Lion King show, an interactive music session, a private meet-and-greet with Minnie Mouse, a character lunch with Rafiki and Mickey at the Hakuna Matata restaurant, a Lion King souvenir mug, a €15 gift card, and a special surprise message from Simba.
Beyond the Jungle: Explore the Magic of Disneyland Paris
While the Lion King & Jungle Festival is undoubtedly the highlight of the summer, Disneyland Paris offers a plethora of other attractions to keep you entertained. Guests can enjoy access to both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, each offering a unique adventure.
In Disneyland Park, you can experience the thrill of Big Thunder Mountain, a runaway mine train rollercoaster that will have you laughing and screaming with delight. For a magical experience, take a journey through the kitchen of Gusteau’s restaurant in Ratatouille: The Adventure. This innovative ride shrinks you to the size of a rat, allowing you to navigate the kitchen with a mix of 3D and physical effects. And for the ultimate aquatic adventure, hop aboard Crush’s Coaster, a thrilling rollercoaster that takes you on a whirlwind ride through the East Australian Current.
At Walt Disney Studios Park, prepare for a galaxy far, far away with Star Tours, a 3D simulator that takes you on a thrilling journey through the Star Wars universe. No two rides are the same, so you can always expect a different adventure filled with familiar heroes and villains. The park is also gearing up for the highly anticipated Marvel Avengers-themed area, where you can suit up alongside Spider-Man and embark on a hyper-kinetic adventure alongside Iron Man and your favourite Avengers.
Disney’s Newport Bay Club Hotel: Your Home Away From Home
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at Disney’s Newport Bay Club Hotel, a nautical-themed hotel inspired by New England yacht clubs. Located within the Disneyland Paris resort complex, it’s a short walk or shuttle ride from the park gates. Enjoy a variety of amenities, including two restaurants, a swimming pool, sauna and steam bath, and a fitness centre. Suite guests have unlimited access to Fastpass lanes, while Compass Club Room guests get one additional Fastpass per day, ensuring a seamless and magical experience.
Planning Your Jungle Adventure:
Book your unforgettable summer adventure at Disneyland Paris today! A two-night package for two adults and two children sharing a Standard Room with two double beds, three-day park hopper tickets, and return Eurostar travel in standard class starts at £1,895, departing August 23.
Eurostar operates a daily direct service between Disneyland Paris and St Pancras International during school holidays. Outside school holidays, it runs daily except Tuesdays and Saturdays. One-way fares start at £38 for adults and £27 for children aged between four and 11; under-fours travel free. The journey from London takes two hours and 47 minutes.
Get ready to experience the thrill of the jungle, the magic of Disney, and the adventure of a lifetime at Disneyland Paris’ Lion King & Jungle Festival.
