Efteling’s 2023 triumph: Record visitors, global appeal, and thrilling innovations

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Efteling, the amusement park in Kaatsheuvel, Holland, achieved a new milestone last year with approximately 5.56 million visitors enjoying a day or weekend getaway. This marked another record-breaking year for the park, surpassing the previous record set in 2022. Notably, 2023 witnessed a notable increase in visitors from Germany and England, reaching unprecedented levels.

German visitors contributed significantly to the overall growth, accounting for 33% of the increased visitor numbers. English visitors also played a role, contributing 12% to the growth, while Belgian visitors accounted for the largest share with 48% growth. Within the Netherlands, there was a substantial rise in the number of annual pass holders.

Throughout the year, Efteling focused on preserving and innovating its cultural heritage. In spring, the 1954 Anton Pieck square underwent revitalization, with special attention given to the merry-go-rounds. The founder, Anton Pieck, was honored with a temporary exhibition in the Efteling Museum. Additionally, the park installed nearly 12,000 additional solar panels, bringing the total to 25,000. In autumn, a new Heat-Cold Storage (HCS) energy system was launched, leading to sustainable cooling and heating for attractions like Fata Morgana and the restaurant Backerei Krümel. This initiative resulted in a 20% reduction in overall gas consumption.

Looking ahead, Efteling anticipates the unveiling of a new attraction, Danse Macabre, and the ongoing construction of Efteling Grand Hotel, coinciding with the continuous growth in international visitors.

Fons Jurgens, CEO of Efteling, expressed gratitude for the consistent support from visitors and highlighted the significance of international growth in 2023. He emphasized that the focus on becoming an international short-stay destination aligns with their vision for 2030, emphasizing continuity and independence. Jurgens acknowledged the high standards set for guest satisfaction, noting the positive trend with an average score of 8.64 in 2023. Confident in the achievements of the past year, he eagerly anticipates what 2024 will bring for Efteling.

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