It’s a Small World

The Story Behind It’s a Small World

The It’s a Small World at Disneyland Paris was born from Walt Disney’s dream to unite people from around the globe through joy and music. First introduced at the 1964 World’s Fair, it quickly won the hearts of visitors, showcasing that despite all differences, the world is united and filled with friendship. The success of this idea was so profound that the attraction became a permanent fixture in Disney parks worldwide, symbolizing peace and understanding.

When the attraction opened at Disneyland Paris in 1992, it was tailored to reflect European culture while preserving its core message. Today, this attraction continues to draw thousands of visitors, reminding each one of the importance of unity and friendship that connects every corner of our planet.

Description of the It’s a Small World

As soon as you step inside, you are greeted by a pastel-coloured building that evokes the charm of fairy-tale castles and fantastical lands. Within, an enchanting boat ride awaits, guiding you through a series of vibrant scenes, each representing different regions and cultures of the world.

Your boat gently glides along a calm river, leading you through lively and colourful tableaux depicting various countries and continents. In each zone, you are welcomed by dolls dressed in traditional costumes, smiling as they sing the iconic song, “It’s a Small World.” These dolls, meticulously crafted with attention to detail, sing in different languages, highlighting the cultural richness of our planet.

Each room in the attraction is a unique world, immersing you in a distinctive atmosphere. You pass by the majestic pyramids of Egypt, then drift into the lush jungles of Africa, where joyful animals join in the chorus. Next, you find yourself in the enchanting world of the East, surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms and pagodas. Every area is brought to life with vivid colours, twinkling lights, and animated sets, creating a magical experience.

The journey culminates in a grand and celebratory hall, where all the nations of the world come together under one sky, symbolizing peace and harmony. Here, dolls from every country and continent sing together in a unified chorus, ending the experience on a joyful and uplifting note. The attraction leaves you with a warm feeling, reminding you of the importance of appreciating diversity and fostering peace across the globe.

The Main Soundtrack of the It’s a Small World

From the first notes, It’s a Small World song  brings a special magic to the attraction, making this cultural journey unforgettable. Composed by the Sherman Brothers for the 1964 World’s Fair, this melody has become a symbol of peace and friendship at Disneyland. Sung in various languages, the song highlights our shared dream of harmony. Its simplicity and warmth bring smiles to every guest, as they travel through vibrant scenes where each doll dances to the familiar tune, filling hearts with joy and connection.

Fun Facts

• The melody of It's a Small World is performed in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Japanese, reflecting the attraction's global message of unity among all people.
• The tune accompanies you throughout the entire attraction, so be prepared for it to linger in your mind for the rest of the day!
• The attraction features around 300 dolls, each representing different countries and cultures.
• These dolls are dressed in traditional costumes and dance to the melody, creating a sense of global celebration.
• The dolls and decorations in the attraction are handcrafted by a team of artists and designers, many of whom work on Walt Disney's original project.
• All the scenes in the attraction are connected by a waterway, along which boats carrying guests gently glide, adding a sense of serenity and smoothness to the overall experience.

Helpful Hints

• Visit early or late in the day: To minimize wait times, it's best to visit the attraction either early in the morning or late in the evening when the lines are shorter.
• Perfect for all ages: This attraction is ideal for visitors of all ages, especially families with young children, as the ride is gentle and free of sudden movements.
• Notice the details: The attraction is filled with intricate details and cultural elements in every scene. Take the time to observe each one closely—they make the ride even more engaging.
• Choose the right time for photos: Inside the attraction, the lighting can be dim, so if you want to capture quality photos, look for moments with brighter lighting, such as when the boat passes by glowing decorations.
• Location in the park: The attraction is located near Sleeping Beauty Castle, easily identifiable by its vibrant façade resembling a clock with moving parts. Plan your park route to easily find your way to It’s a Small World.