One of Europe’s oldest and largest theme parks has announced it will open during winter 1999/2000 – the first time in Efteling’s 47 years that the Dutch fairy-tale theme park has welcomed guests out of season.
During December and January, the park will open on the weekends of December 11-12 and 18-19 and throughout the period of December 24 to January 9, from 11am to 8pm. On New Year’s Eve, the park will close at 4pm.
Communications manager Henk Groenen explained why the park has decided to extend its operating season. “Normally a visit to a theme park in winter doesn’t hold much appeal because of the unfavourable weather conditions,” he said.
“However, what we have done at Efteling is to create a special winter product offering the visitor a completely different experience.
“Particular emphasis will be placed on our live shows and entertainment and we will introduce additional attractions, such as an ice rink and stalls selling traditional Dutch food.”
Most of Efteling’s rides and attractions will remain open, the exceptions being white-knuckle rides such as the Python and Piranha, which will not be in operation because of the cold temperatures.
Operator reaction to the extended season has been favourable. Amsterdam Travel Service general manager Phil Jenkins said: “We’re pleased Efteling is doing this trial. It makes a lot of sense to do this over the school holidays at Christmas. Disneyland Paris stays open all winter and puts on firework displays after dark and Christmas parades. It is good that Efteling is having a go as well.”
The operator’s lead-in price for a winter self-drive package is £109 per adult. The deal includes two nights’ accommodation at the three-star Ibis hotel in nearby Tilburg, breakfast and entrance to the park. Children under four go free, while those aged four-11 get a £15 reduction, taking the price down to £95.
Entrance to the park in winter will be around £10.50 for a day ticket, or about £9 per person for groups of 20 or more. Children under three are admitted free.
Efteling is located in southern Holland, around 2hrs 30mins drive from Ostend, or 3hrs from Calais.
More information is available from Efteling’s UK office on 01242 260960.