The Disney On Ice: Magic in the Ice Festival dazzled audiences in Rotterdam and Utrecht from December 11 to 29, 2019. Wondering if it's worth the ticket price? We attended the show at Rotterdam Ahoy on Friday, December 13, 2019, and share our firsthand experience.
Each year, Disney On Ice delivers a spectacular skating extravaganza in Rotterdam and Utrecht. For two hours, families are immersed in enchanting performances featuring beloved characters like Beauty and the Beast, Simba and Pumbaa, Rapunzel, Aladdin, and more. The show evolves annually with fresh acts. Originating in the U.S. in 1981, Disney On Ice now tours globally, including a cherished December tradition in the Netherlands.
We caught the Friday, December 13, 2019, performance. Though our children are now 20 and 18, we all loved it—mostly. A tall man behind our daughter disrupted the first half by flailing his coat into her hair and later kicking her seat, causing back pain. We switched seats after intermission, resolving the issue.
From the opening, the production shone: impeccable costumes, dynamic lighting, flawless choreography, vibrant music, and elite skaters operating like a precision team. We marveled at the high-speed maneuvers with zero mishaps. The performers visibly relished their roles, enhancing the magic.
A standout feature was the skaters building and moving the sets themselves—a ship even glided across the ice twice. Lifelike animals like Maximus from Rapunzel and Sven from Frozen were masterfully portrayed by duos on skates.
Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Donald Duck kicked off the festivities, weaving announcements into a cohesive storyline that kept energy high. The first act spotlighted Ariel, Moana, and Rapunzel. After a 15-minute intermission—perfect for a quick break—the second half featured Beauty and the Beast, culminating in Frozen. Elsa and Anna stole the show, with kids singing along enthusiastically.
Stories were condensed yet complete, capturing all key moments. This family-friendly spectacle delights all ages—our teens were hooked. (Battery woes prevented many photos; venue rules limit sharing anyway.)
Disney On Ice: Magic in the Ice Festival
December 11–29, 2019
Rotterdam Ahoy & Utrecht Jaarbeurs
Various showtimes (check website)
Tickets: €16.50+; family packs up to €80
PS: Limited photos here due to restrictions—experience it live for the full wonder!
