Amusement park year 2025
2025 is over, and that means looking back. And let's be honest: it was a year full of activity in the theme park world. New hotels, new attractions, farewells to familiar names, and even entirely new events. Time to list the most notable highlights of this theme park year for you.
Opening Efteling Grand Hotel
To watch the Efteling 2025 was undoubtedly a special year. On August 1, the Efteling Grand Hotel officially opened its doors. After nearly two years of construction, the first guests were finally allowed to stay overnight in this new showpiece on the edge of the park.
The opening was a grand affair, with a world record even being set: the hotel was decorated with the largest bow in the world.
Unmasked at Toverland
Toverland also went all out this year during Halloween Nights. For the first time, visitors could experience the Haunted Experience Unmasked: Walkthrough Experience it all. Not a classic haunted house ride, but a walk through the ruins of an old mansion.
In addition, the scare zone Unmasked: Wunderball Masqué Impressive, where actors sometimes looked straight at you without hiding behind a mask. Exciting in a completely different way.
Source: Toverland
Source: Bobbejaanland
A new winter event: Bobbejaan Wintert
Amusement park land added a new winter event in 2025. During Bobbejaan Wintert Bobbejaanland will be transformed into a festive winter park until January 4th. Think Christmas trees, thousands of lights, and various winter zones.
The pond has been transformed into an ice skating rink, a winter parade rides through the park daily, and the Arena hosts a winter circus. A surprisingly complete winter experience for the park.
Walibi opens roller coaster YOY
On April 5, Walibi Holland added a striking new roller coaster to its offering: YOYWhat's unique about this attraction is that you can choose how exciting your ride will be.
Will you choose the calmer side without inversions, or dare to tackle the THRILL side with no fewer than six loops? YOY appeals to both families and thrill seekers.
Source: Walibi
Source: Bommelwereld
Opening of Bommelwereld
The Netherlands gained a new amusement park this year. On October 3, Bommel world officially opened its doors. This park, especially for young visitors, will enter the world of Olivier B. Bommel and Tom Poes.
A special moment, because new amusement parks do not open in the Netherlands every year.
A first look at the renovations at Disneyland Paris
In Disneyland Paris Work is currently underway on renovations at Walt Disney's Studios Park. A few weeks ago, it was announced that the new themed areas will open in 2026.
But this year construction fences have also been removed, part of World Premiere Plaza is open.
25 years Plopsaland De Panne
There was celebration in Belgium. Plopsaland De Panne existed exactly 25 years in 2025.
The anniversary was celebrated with a special parade that passed through the park every day and additional festive entertainment spread throughout the day.
150 million visitors for Europa-Park
Europa-Park experienced a historic moment on Monday, November 10th. On that day, the 150 millionth visitor welcomed.
An impressive milestone that shows how popular the German park has been for decades.
Source: Europa-Park
Looking ahead to 2026
Now that 2025 has passed, many amusement parks are already looking ahead. New attractions, expansions, and events are planned for 2026.
Curious about what awaits us next year? You'll find out soon in a next blog.
Related articles:
Bobbejaan Wintert: a brand new winter event
Winter Efteling 2025: what you can't miss
