Disneyland Paris is once again enhancing its immersive atmosphere with a charming update—brand-new animated figures for its beloved popcorn carts. Imagineers, in collaboration with the Central Workshops and Haute Couture teams, are meticulously designing fresh versions of these whimsical characters. Over the coming months, these delightful figures will gradually appear across the park, adding a subtle yet captivating touch to the Disney experience.
On your next visit, take a moment to admire these tiny animated figures turning the popcorn drums. Their presence may be small, but their contribution to the storytelling magic of Disneyland Paris is significant. Have you ever noticed the different designs scattered throughout the park?
The history of these animated popcorn figures dates back to the invention of the original ‘Cretors’ popcorn carts by Charles Cretors in 1885. These groundbreaking machines, introduced to the public at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, transformed popcorn sales by offering consistent popping and perfect seasoning. To attract attention, Cretors adorned his carts with a mechanical clown figure, energetically spinning a popcorn drum to delight customers.
When Disneyland opened in 1955, these classic popcorn carts became an integral part of Main Street, U.S.A., reinforcing the land’s nostalgic turn-of-the-century charm. Over the years, Imagineers expanded on this concept by creating region-specific designs that matched the theme of each land within the park.
Disney’s commitment to detail led to the customization of these animated popcorn figures, tailoring their appearance to fit their surroundings.
Now a cherished element of Disney parks worldwide, animated popcorn figures can be found not only at Disneyland Paris but also in Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, and other destinations. Across Disneyland Paris, you can spot them in locations such as Central Plaza and Indiana Jones et le Temple du Péril, each featuring a design that harmonizes with its surroundings.
With the latest updates, Disneyland Paris continues its tradition of enhancing even the smallest details, making each guest’s visit a truly magical experience. Keep an eye out for these enchanting new additions— you never know what delightful surprise might be waiting near your favorite popcorn cart!