This coming fall, Disneyland Paris will participate in an event titled Patrimony Days: a national celebration of French culture and heritage. On September 15th and 16th, guests will be able to participate in an exclusive experience that focuses on history, architecture, gastronomy, and local artisans in addition to guided tours throughout the park. A mobile app has been developed to aid guests in learning about the inspiration behind Disneyland Park in an interactive way and will be available only for the two days of the event on both iOS and Android.

Patrimony Days (also titled European Heritage Days or EHD) is a joint action of the Council of Europe and the European Commission that involves all 50 signatory states of the European Cultural Convention under the motto: Europe, a common heritage. The annual event includes opportunities to visit buildings and monuments that are not normally accessible to the public and aims to widen access to and foster architectural and environmental heritage. 

The event began in France in 1984, with La Journée Portes Ouvertes and in 1985, in Granada, at the 2nd European Conference of Ministers. It was at this time that the French Minister of Culture proposed that the project be internationalized under the Council of Europe. The Netherlands held their first Open Monumentendag in 1987 followed by Sweden and Ireland in 1989, then Belgium and Scotland in 1990. It wasn’t until 1991 these events were united as European Heritage Days at the initiative of the Council of Europe, supported by the EU, and finally in 2010, all 50 signatory states of the European Cultural Convention agreed to participate. 

References to European and French culture are abundant at Disneyland Paris from the fairy tales that inspired classic Disney films to the architectural style that honors French sites, along with the art of food that is represented in its numerous restaurants.

We hope you've enjoyed learning about the Origins of The Patrimony Days! Planning a trip to experience the magic of Disneyland Paris during this special celebration? Our culturally immersive classes taught by native instructors will ensure you are able to experience the Patrimony Days to the fullest! Click below for more info!