What does Bart say? – A Theme Park blog!

First of all, best wishes for a happy and healthy 2026! May this year be filled with new friendships, roller coaster credits, and theme park visits. Now that the holidays are over, I finally had time to visit Winter Efteling. Winter Efteling has been going on for a few weeks now, and I’ve heard mixed reviews from people. Last winter, I was less than positive about Winter Efteling 2024/2025. I went to visit with an open mind, and I’m curious to see how Efteling has approached it this year. Has Efteling improved itself, or is it still as disappointing as last year?

A notable change compared to last year is the decoration of the entrance square, the theater, and the surroundings of the Efteling Grand Hotel. Last year, the entrance area was still a construction site, but with the opening of the Efteling Grand Hotel last summer, the area has been restored to its former glory. This year, the entrance area has even been festively decorated with snow-covered Christmas trees, lights, and chimineas that you can find not only in the entrance area but also scattered throughout the park. And when you wrap up your day at Efteling, as the sun sets behind the clouds, this part of Efteling becomes even more magical with the magical pendulum on the Efteling Grand Hotel that changes into multiple colors and Aquanura, which looks even more stunning in the dark.

Not only has the entrance area been winterized this year, the Anton Pieckplein has also been decked out in festive winter decor. The campfire is returned, the food and drink options have been expanded, the covered seating areas are heated, and the game gallery offerings can now be found on the Anton Pieckplein as well. These additions ensure that the Anton Pieckplein is getting the attention it deserves again. And entertainment hasn’t been forgotten in the extra attention given to the Anton Pieckplein – new this year is the Caroling Carousel! The act is performed while the carousel is spinning, a fun addition for both the visitors who ride along and those waiting in line or standing around the carousel. With traditional Dutch songs, it’s a party to watch and singing along is encouraged! However, one point of criticism is that the act is only available on weekends and during the winter holidays, which I think is a missed opportunity. During Summer Efteling, there is daily entertainment in the park, and if that’s possible, it should be possible during Winter Efteling too, right? And don’t forget to send a postcard from the new post office while you’re here! Efteling gives the opportunity to send mail to anywhere in the Netherlands and abroad!

Another new entertainment act this year, close to the Anton Pieckplein is ‘De Man met de Toverlantaarn’ (The Man with the Magic Lantern) in the Carousel Theater. This typical Efteling story tells the tale of a man with a magic lantern who has been chased out of his village and is searching for a place to warm up before continuing his journey. At one point, he arrives at a small house, where a sick boy lives who would love to hear a new story. The production is very well put together and is one of the best shows Efteling has presented in recent years. From the first minute to the last, my attention was captivated by the performance. The show has plenty of replay value, and if I get the chance, I’ll definitely watch it again. I do recommend joining the queue on time, as it’s very popular and the theater gets full easily!

Something that has been recurring in recent years is the Warme Winter Weide. Just like in previous years, which perfectly complements the winter atmosphere of the Anton Pieckplein located not far from here. With some small changes like the christmas tree that was located at Symbolica moved here and fits much better here than it did on the Symbolica square.  Pardijntje’s show is back with subtle changes compared to last year. But I still have my doubts about this act; although the act is well put together, I wonder if it really fits with Winter Efteling. If I’m being completely honest, I’d rather see the show with Pinocchio and the Fairy back than Pardijntje’s festive performance. During the day, the Warme Winter Weide lacks atmosphere, but as soon as the sun sets behind the clouds, it’s just like the entrance square, much more magical. The cozy, warm atmosphere really comes to life then. Such a shame that there isn’t much entertainment when the sun has set, it would add much more to the atmosphere there.

While you’re immersed in wintery atmospheres in Reizenrijk, Marerijk, and Fairy Tale Forest, the Ruigrijk and Anderrijk offer significantly less winter magic. In Ruigrijk, Efteling has chosen not to add any winter decorations, creating an unpleasant atmosphere on cold days. Last year, this was compensated for with entertainment, and that is now really missing in this part of the park. During my visit, it was even too cold to operate the attractions in Ruigrijk, which left visitors wandering around this part of the park, confused and even disappointed that none of the rides were operational. I have even heard a few people speak negatively about Efteling, which would not be necessary if entertainment had returned here. Fortunately, Efteling does everything to keep all their attractions operational, but in moments like these, Ruigrijk really lacks a bit of the experience.

It’s not much different in Anderrijk; apart from the Max and Moritzplein, there’s little winter atmosphere to be found. When the temperature drops below freezing, the Pirana is under maintenance, and there’s no entertainment to be found in Anderijk on weekdays, Fata Morgana is located in a remote area, making it an easy one to skip in the attraction lineup which is a shame for a darkride. You don’t necessarily need to give the attractions themselves a winter makeover, but it should still be interesting to visit this part of the park. This can be done differently, Efteling! Ruigrijk and Anderrijk are not particularly special when the attractions are not operational, apart from one open attraction in Anderrijk. Is it an idea to close off this part of the park? I don’t think so, despite the fact that there’s not much to experience when the attractions are closed, the food and beverage options are still open, and Efteling definitely needs them on busy days. 

It’s clear that Efteling is taking a different approach with Winter Efteling, but they’re not entirely satisfied with how it’s turned out in recent years. With the new additions to the Anton Pieckplein and entrance area, ‘De Man met de Toverlantaarn’ in the Carousel Theater, and the subtle changes to the Warme Winter Weide, Efteling has taken a good step in improving Winter Efteling. I hope to see the entertainment return to Ruigrijk and I hope to see more decorations in Anderrijk next year. Compared to last year, I’m much more positive about Winter Efteling. I’m curious, though, what will happen with King Winter. In recent seasons, there have been hints about it, but this year, there’s been no sign of King Winter in the park. Has Efteling abandoned the concept, or can we expect King Winter in the park in the 2026-2027 season? Only time will tell!

The winter season at Efteling runs until February 1, 2026! Are you heading to Kaatsheuvel to experience Winter Efteling? Let me know!

Bart