What We Know About Disney World Opening in July
As of mid-March, all Disney theme parks and resorts around the world have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the reopening process beginning in some states, Walt Disney World in Florida has announced plans to welcome people back to the happiest place on Earth starting July 11 , according to a company blog post. On Friday, May 29, Disney World theme parks and resorts received permission from the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force in Florida to reopen, so this is official, the Orlando Sentinel reported . Here’s what we know so far.
What is discovery and when?
Technically, Disney facilities have already begun the opening process. Disney Springs , an open-air shopping area, is open from May 20. All visitors must wear masks and check the temperature before entering. And if you think you’re going to ignore some social distancing rules you’ll get away with it, think again: there are stormtroopers in the park that patrol and enforce the rules.
The next will be the Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World, which will reopen to members and guests on June 22 with Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Disney Vacation Club Resorts in Vero Beach, Florida and Hilton Head, South Carolina will be open to members and guests from June 15th. At the moment, there is no set opening date for the hotels not owned by Disney Vacation Club.
In terms of theme parks, the phased openings to the general public will kick off on July 11 with Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and on July 15 with EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
What to expect in parks
Even when Disney World theme parks are open, don’t expect to return to the same Magic Kingdom you visited as a child – or even four months ago. On the Disney Parks blog :
This phased discovery will demonstrate a thoughtful approach with limited attendance and controlled density of guests, in line with physical distance guidelines. This means that certain events that we know attract large group gatherings, such as parades and nightly performances, will return later. In addition, features such as makeovers, playgrounds, character encounters and greetings will be temporarily unavailable, but characters will still be in our parks to entertain and delight our guests.
And don’t forget face masks: all actors and guests aged 2 and over will be required to wear appropriate face masks in theme parks and resort public areas. As with Disney Springs’ policies, all guests and actors must also have their temperature measured before entering the theme park. Visitors should also expect stricter cleaning and disinfection procedures in high-traffic areas, and the park recommends cashless payments whenever possible. For more information and updates on re-opening, visit the Disney Parks Blog .
It goes without saying that everyone should use common sense when deciding whether to return or when to return to potentially crowded places such as theme parks. Just because they are technically open doesn’t mean you have to go. Until then, you can always enjoy this virtual trip to Disney World . You will save time, money and queues.