Exhibition - Disney 100: A Century of Magic Comes to Life in Paris

By Mulder, 27 january 2025

The Disney100 Exhibition, a global celebration marking 100 years of creativity and innovation by The Walt Disney Company, is set to captivate fans in Paris from April 10 to October 5, 2025, at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. This landmark exhibition, which has already delighted audiences in cities like Munich, London, Chicago, and Seoul, invites visitors of all ages to step into the world of Disney and experience a century of storytelling like never before.

This monumental event offers a comprehensive journey through Disney’s storied history. Divided into ten immersive galleries, the exhibition showcases over 250 original artifacts from the Walt Disney Archives, spanning the company’s earliest creations to its most recent innovations. From the first sketches of Mickey Mouse to costumes and props from Marvel blockbusters and Star Wars epics, the Disney100 Exhibition is a treasure trove of nostalgia, artistry, and imagination.

Each gallery is meticulously designed to transport visitors through Disney’s evolution over the last century. The journey begins with the company’s humble origins, spotlighting its first iconic characters, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and Mickey Mouse. It then delves into Disney’s groundbreaking ventures into animated and live-action films, theme parks, and global franchises like Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Visitors will witness firsthand how Disney has become synonymous with creativity, innovation, and cultural impact.

Among the rare treasures on display are the original storybook prop from Sleeping Beauty (1959), the carousel horse ridden by Julie Andrews in Mary Poppins (1964), the glass slipper from the live-action Cinderella (2015), and the mask of Iron Man from the 2008 film that launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans of Indiana Jones will marvel at the iconic outfit worn by Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023), while Disney enthusiasts will appreciate intricate sculptures and early animation models.

In addition to these remarkable artifacts, the exhibition features several interactive experiences designed to immerse visitors in Disney’s world. Through cutting-edge technology, guests can explore motion-capture demonstrations, witness animatronic innovations, and even pose for photographs alongside beloved Disney characters. Specially designed photo zones bring Disney’s magic to life, offering fans a chance to capture memories in iconic settings inspired by their favorite stories.

The exhibition also highlights Disney’s influence on theme park design, with displays showcasing ride artifacts, such as the bobsled vehicle from Disneyland California’s Matterhorn Bobsleds. The recreation of Main Street U.S.A., an iconic hallmark of Disney’s parks, offers visitors an evocative walk through Disney’s physical storytelling innovations, complete with nostalgic visuals and sounds that evoke memories of family vacations and cherished experiences.

This journey through Disney’s history is enriched by thoughtful storytelling, bilingual displays in both French and English, and a gallery dedicated to the music and soundscapes that have accompanied Disney’s most iconic moments. Fans can relive the stirring melodies from classics like The Lion King and Frozen, immersing themselves in a world where music and narrative intertwine to create timeless magic.

The Disney100 Exhibition is not just about the past; it celebrates Disney’s ongoing legacy and its impact on generations. From Pixar’s heartwarming tales to Star Wars’ intergalactic adventures and Marvel’s superhero sagas, the exhibition demonstrates how Disney continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Each gallery blends Disney’s storied past with its present and future, offering something for everyone, whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the Disney universe.

This one-of-a-kind exhibition also caters to fans seeking to take home a piece of the magic. A special boutique will offer exclusive centenary merchandise, including limited-edition collectibles, apparel, and artwork. It’s the perfect way to commemorate an extraordinary journey through Disney’s century-long legacy.

For those planning to visit, the Disney100 Exhibition will be housed in Pavillon 2.1 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, easily accessible by public transport. Opening hours are 10 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, with last entries at 5 PM. Tickets are available in two formats: dated tickets, which are more affordable and tied to specific entry times, and open tickets, which offer flexibility for a slightly higher price. Tickets can be purchased online starting January 28, 2025, and advance booking is highly recommended, as the exhibition is expected to draw large crowds.

Whether you’re a devoted Disney fan, a parent sharing the magic with your children, or simply someone curious about the art of storytelling, the Disney100 Exhibition promises an experience like no other. This is a celebration of not just Disney’s incredible legacy but also the countless memories it has created for millions of people around the world.

Step into the magic, relive your favorite moments, and discover the stories behind the stories. The Disney100 Exhibition is more than an event—it’s a celebration of dreams, creativity, and the enduring power of imagination. Paris awaits you for this unforgettable journey through a century of Disney. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this historic celebration.