There seems to be a common thread in the reopening of entertainment venues across the world — mandatory face masks.
©ShanghaiDisneylandResort on Instagram
We’ve already seen mandatory face masks for employees AND guests become the norm for Shanghai Disneyland, Universal Orlando CityWalk, and Disney Springs. Especially for Americans, wearing face masks is a pretty new concept. And our readers are asking plenty of questions about what this will be like. So we’re taking a look at when you WILL need to wear a mask at Disney, and when you won’t.
Shanghai Disneyland’s Policy
Let’s start by taking a look at Disneyland Shanghai’s policy since it is the closest measure we have for what to anticipate in Disney World and Disneyland. According to the health protocols and safety measures for the park, masks are to be worn during guests’ entire visit to the resort except when dining.
Shanghai Disneyland
We’ve seen this practice go into effect in the opening days of the park. So far, it appears that masks are mandatory in photos as well, so we’ll be saying “Cheese!” from behind that protective filter.
©ShanghaiDisneylandResort on Instagram
The park has even instituted bins to dispose of old masks safely. This mandatory policy is in place for the safety of guests and those around them as the CDC and other health organizations recommend masks as a precaution against the spread of illness.
Click here to see what the opening day looked like in Shanghai Disneyland!
Masks in the Domestic Disney Parks
Still, things are pretty different in Shanghai than they are here. Asian cultures are often a lot more comfortable wearing masks and many even did so prior to the world health crisis. So, is the expectation the same for Americans? The answer, it seems, is yes.
Walt Disney World
As we mentioned, Disney Springs is already requiring masks for Cast Members and guests. As the first officially reopened portion of Disney World, this could be an indication that masks will be expected in the parks. And Florida, in general, has the recommendation of face masks for all residents in public spaces!
The most telling factor indicating that the domestic parks will require guests to wear masks comes from the CEO of the Walt Disney Company. Bob Chapek recently mentioned that it is likely that masks will be required for all guests and Cast Members in the parks. He acknowledged how this will be a cultural challenge, but that it will be important for the safety and health of everyone.
©CNBC
Some Disney fans are unhappy with this prospect, especially considering the heat in Florida. Still, it seems like a likelihood as Disney deems masks an important piece of opening the parks responsibly.
Click here to read more of Bob Chapek’s comments on face masks and more!
You’ll probably only take those masks off when you’re eating or leaving.
So, yes, we can presume you probably will have to wear a mask in the domestic Disney parks. If they follow a similar model to Shanghai, it’ll only be okay to take them off when dining.
Grand Floridian Cafe Dining Room
There’s a good reason for you to be able to take your mask off for your meal! According to NPR, it is more dangerous to take your mask on and off between bites than it is to not wear it. All that touching your face is a no-go!
Crystal Palace
It can be kind of weird to imagine everyone wearing a mask in Disney parks, but Disney has prepared for this. Check out these cute branded face masks you can snag on shopDisney! Just remember, masks are for your safety and for the safety of others, including Cast Members. Disney takes this responsibility very seriously, so if masks will keep their people safe, then masks will be a part of the plan.
Need to stock up on face masks for your fam? Click here!
More Disney Park Closure Details and Info
Click HERE for the All Latest Updates
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Disney’s Closure Timeline and What It Could Mean For Disney’s Reopening
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Disney World and Disneyland Closure Questions Answered!
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How do you feel about wearing masks in the Disney parks? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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We live in the uk, we have visited this magical place on several occasions we like mist most others love all things Disney. But i am not prepared to pay £15.000 to walk around in a mask all day in that heat be uncomfortable and grumpy. I think that it should be optional to wear one. People are not stupid (well some are) i wouldnt be going up and randomly getting closely in peoples faces i can quite easily walk around the park without a mask on. In Disney you can sometimes come across people getting stressed and grumpy because there hot, tired ect so this is gonna be 10 fold with the added uncomfortable masks causing sweat rashes, elastic dents in the face , dehydration.
I am all for safety to myself and others around me, but using ur own commen sense and hygiene would suffice. Its already been proven they dont protect u from getting the virus. This is supposed to be the most magical place on earth. I mean seriously look at this way covid aside, how do u not know that someone has something else contagious in the past everyone still visited touched hands ect. No one walked about saying do u think that they could have measles, mumps, chickenpox, you just enjoyed ur day smiling running round happy.
Just common sense make sure ur clean, no symptoms, be aware this can all be done with out a mask if people used there noggins. And if you choose to be more cautious and a worried protect urself with a mask. Like i said should be a personal choice
I’m not sure why the pro-mask commentators seem so angry at those who say that they don’t wish to visit WDW while the mask requirement is in effect, and so many are giving snarky comments like “fine, stay home” “Disney doesn’t need your money” or “good, more space for us” Some are even not too subtly implying that guests who don’t want to wear a mask are endangering others.
DFB specifically asked us on this page “How do you feel about wearing masks in the Disney parks? Share your thoughts in the comments!” The mask requirement is one among many reasons why I (long-time AP holder) requested a refund for the unused portion of my AP and don’t want to visit WDW while the mask requirement and many other changes are in effect. If Disney feels strongly about the masks, they can eject guests who don’t comply with the policy, in addition to the already clear messages that the requirement will be in effect. But if I and others here have reasons that we don’t want to wear them, this is a place where we were specifically asked to provide that opinion. If people want to go and wear masks I sincerely wish you a magical day and hope that you enjoy your time there. But please stop with the attacks on those of us who don’t share your views.
Its my opinion that the hysterical level of 24/7 coverage about this disease has pushed some people over the line. This week my 95 year old aunt who cant see too well but was wearing a mask in the grocery store, was accosted by a woman who yelled at her for going up the grocery aisle the wrong way!!! ( She had not seen the arrows on the floor). Needless to say the screamer was swathed in mask and gloves. So what was her problem?? And I think its rude to say if you dont want to wear a mask at Disney , stay home. The reality is you cannot logically or economically afford to lock up your population for years. My cousin is a phD and retired after a 40 year career working for a drug company which makes vaccines. He tells me that 30% of the population never gets a regular flu shot each year. So, do you imagine they are going to get this one either?? Many folks refuse to get their kids long established vaccines for measles and chicken pox and such. Ditto, will they get their kids vaccinated?? No. And I believe its doubtful the feds will forceably vaccinate the population. So the vaccine, IF developed,will not be a total solution. The hysterics are going to have to live with the uncertainty. NOTHING in life is guaranteed. Have any of you seen the soaring rates for suicide, drug overdoses, alcohol related deaths, abuse rates, etc. Do you know that people have been unable to get cancer surgery and treatment, heart stents, etc while everyone obsessed about covid?? Covid is NOT the only way people die, you know?? At some point the need to get to work will outweigh all other considerations, and we will have to let the chips fall where they may. The alternative is starvation and people living in the streets . Food will be unavailable as the supply chain breaks down and rent is never free, at least, not forever. Speaking for myself, I love Disney, have been there a dozen times. But the experience there has been tainted in recent years anyway by massive overcrowding. Your every move therefore scheduled. And now we add this mask while removing parades, etc? I have no interest in going while masked, avoiding others like they have leprosy. It sure does not sound like fun. And finally, if masks are the solution and planes are now flying full with masked customers cheek to jowl, why cant we just open EVERYTHING right now? It feels like the pro-mask supporters want it both ways.
I’ve already had covid19 and my kids are fine.why should I wear a mask if I’ve already had it?? also, my son with autism and sensory issues will never war a mask there. I’m moving to FL next month and couldn’t wait to get my APs but now, nope. Too hot for a mask. Let me assume my risk. I’ll even take a stupid test at the gate but there’s no way this mask policy will work especially for those who have already had it. This is too much .
We have paid for a week in September at WDW staying at the Polynesian Resort to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. If masks will be required we do not want to go. Will we be able to have our money refunded? We are not getting any younger so prefer not to receive just a credit toward a future visit.
I think the comments shown here are a pretty good representation how people in general feel about wearing masks.
Unfortunately it also appears that some of the comments show a disrespect of those who don’t share the same opinions. Sadly I’m concerned that those posing opinions could escalate into confrontations in the parks. I hope Disney is prepared to deal with situations where those opinions collide especially in the summer heat.
I agree that I am most afraid of people with different opinions having issues and being ugly about it. The rule is the rule. Come if you want, don’t if you don’t. That’s all. No need to be ugly to anyone about their choice. Too bad testing isn’t instant and easy and free and perfect. Then everyone could get tested at entry and we’d all be safe. Yes there are people who won’t vaccinate and that’s too bad but hopefully we reach so called herd immunity with at least 70% either vaccinated or having antibodies and again, we’ll feel safer… I have gotten sick at Disney in November and December the last few years. Seems to be my trend as I age so I will stay away even with masks being mandatory. I may consider going before the vaccine but I will just stay in the DVC villa. Maybe go get food and bring it back. Or not. But please, can we just stop being ugly about it all. Let it play out. And always think of the people on the other side as having legitimate fears of overheating in a mask, or getting sick from someone not wearing one. It is too hot. I don’t know how the cast members will be able to take it. I wish they would just stay closed until November but I know no one wants to hear that. We should all just pray for a vaccine that is safe and works and enough people to get it to make this go away. Good luck and good health to us all!
Poly Lady 2020 and Margot, I saw a news program that covered how flight attendants are now being trained for precisely the issue you raise. For a variety of legitimate reasons, and I’m sure some not so, airplane travelers take off their masks for a few moments on flights quite regularly, and this has caused meltdowns by others on their flights. Additionally, seating guests in every other seat/every other row is not a legal requirement so some flights do have guests sitting right next to each other when a flight is more full (but relatively rare these days). This has led to disputes between travelers and so attendants are now trained to deescalate this specific issue, i.e. people getting enraged over what they see as a lack of compliance with “social distancing” norms by others. This must be an issue that the theme parks will have to address. My hunch is that CM’s/TM’s will be trained on this and there to gently remind guests who are not eating/drinking to put on masks. I have seen WDW guests angrily complaining about other guests to their faces before (e.g. flash photos, cutting lines, talking loudly) and CM’s definitely are trained to calm down the complainers. I suspect once the parks reopen that we will see and hear a lot of grumbling on social media of guests complaining that they saw fellow guests not complying (at least in their view) with requirements.
I work for an Asian company and with a lot of Asians, and the comments from others here are 100% spot on about the cultural attitude towards masks being a huge cultural difference. For generations, and from a young age, whenever someone in East Asia was sick, or a major contagious illness was going around, wearing a mask all day has been done. Right or wrong I don’t know, but this practice never caught on in most other countries. Additionally questing authorities just isn’t done as much. I mention this to say that I think the mentions of Shanghai DL having near 100% compliance with the mask requirements, and the relative lack of complaints from there, may not be apples to apples comparison.
I have also gone to Disney first aid before and the nurses there were helpful. They even gave free OTC medicines and provided minor evaluations. I wonder if that will continue now. Guests may be scared to go there if they have to worry that they will be ejected from the park over a minor health issue. Disney may also not want to expose its health care workers to potentially contagious sick guests.
No masks for us. Trip will be cancelled if required. Not believing any hoopla until it is officially “Disney” announced.
If it does happen I believe it will be short lived. All it takes is 1 person pass out and obtain injury and things will change quickly.
I really really REALLY hope we do not have to wear masks in AUGUST!! We have planned this trip for a year and never been to Disney. If we are required to wear masks we will most likely request a refund and when not reschedule. I will put the money back in my savings and use it for a Norwegian Cruise when this is all over. Everyone is going to get the virus eventually. Stop prolonging it. At least make masks optional and those that don’t want to wear them don’t have to. How are we supposed to swim at the water park with a face mask??? Stupid!!!
I hate the idea of having to wear a mask in a state that is already hotter and more humid then I am use to. Also I hate that’s place that is suppose to be fun and full of great memories and pictures taken of you and your friends and family will be replaced with people in bad moods, with saturated masks. There will be no need for most pictures, because you can’t be certain who it is ok the picture anyway.
Also keeping a mask ok a 4 year old especially when your both tired, hit and probably grumpy will be a huge task. It sounds miserable. My family have plans to go in Aug. With extended family.however because this is a first time for my in laws and they may not be able to go again for several years, they will be cancelling the trip.
I think FEAR is driving so much of this and I don’t feel it is needed.
I wonder how many people will become dehydrated and other such things because of this new eliminate they have to deal with.
My family rescheduled for November from this past April, and may reschedule again if the mask requirement is still in place. How are young children going to keep masks on all day? I do understand the precautions, but its going to be unbearable in the Florida heat and impossible for young ones. We may postpone again depending on regulations for the fall. Good luck to everyone. Stay well.
The Article i believe states that Florida recommends a mask in public, (Recommends, not requires. The WHO say do not wear a mask, CDC now contradicts itself, its says do not wear a mask unless you have the flu and now says regardless you need to wear a mask. You have disease specialists and doctors saying both don’t wear mask and do wear mask. A scientific study by Retired neurosurgeon Dr. Russell Blaylock has highlighted a number of studies linking prolonged mask use to headaches and lowered blood oxygen levels, which can weaken the immune system.
In an article published by Technocracy News, Dr. Russell Blaylock wrote that the side effects from prolonged wearing of a face mask “can vary from headaches to increased airway resistance, carbon dioxide accumulation, to hypoxia, all the way to serious life-threatening complications.”
The side effects vary depending on whether they are cloth or paper surgical masks or N95 respirator masks because the N95, being a more effective filter, also limits breathing to a greater degree, and is therefore more commonly associated with headaches, Blaylock reported.
He highlighted one study of 212 healthcare workers who were asked to report on the presence of headaches while using the N95 mask, including the duration of the headache, the type of headache, and whether they had pre-existing headaches. The study found that around a third of workers developed headaches when using the N95 mask, the majority had pre-existing headaches that were made worse by the use of the mask, and around three in five required pain medication to relieve the headache.
And although tight straps or pressure from the mask were considered as potential causes, the evidence pointed to the headaches being caused by reduced blood oxygenation, or an increase in carbon dioxide in the blood.
“It is known that the N95 mask, if worn for hours, can reduce blood oxygenation as much as 20%,” Blaylock wrote. This, he said, “can lead to a loss of consciousness, as happened to the hapless fellow driving around alone in his car wearing an N95 mask, causing him to pass out, and to crash his car and sustain injuries. I am sure that we have several cases of elderly individuals or any person with poor lung function passing out, hitting their head. This, of course, can lead to death.”
I live i Florida, people will pass out from wearing these mask and Disney will be sued because they forced you wear one to enter the parks which has nothing to do with immunity from getting the disease while there. The injury is due to disneys negligent’s by forcing people to wear the mask. 100 degree heat and 100% humidity will not work in a mask. China’s summertime average temps are mid 80’s, Florida’s is 100+.
Simple let the those that wish to wear one do so and those that do not wish to do so as well. Make sure that all attending the parks understand they are entering at their own risks and disney is not responsible for any disease they may contact inside their property. Period.
I wondering about kids in strollers while napping etc?
Tracie, as far as we know, if a guest is three or older, they need a mask at all times. If we learn differently about kids asleep in strollers, I’ll update!
Tracie, I sure hope not. #SIDS
I will be cancelling my September trip if masks are required. Masks would suck all the magic out of Disney and would make for a rather depressing visit. I won’t be back until this requirement is lifted.
We go the first week of September. I believe I have 60 days to cancel without a penalty, not sure. If at that time masks are required in the parks then we will be cancelling.
I have anxiety and barely get thru a grocery run with the mask on. My son has Sensory issues and is on the Autism Spectrum. He will not keep a mask on his face. Also, if parades/fireworks are cancelled, I am not paying the same amount for a watered down experience. I have so many questions like will the pools all be off limits? Water parks shut down?
I wish Disney would make masks optional. I would be willing to sign a waiver absolving them of any Covid or viral illness.
If Disney did their research they would understand that COVID is killed off in extreme heat and humidity, which Florida already has. Summer months would definitely have no need for masks, so hopefully they won’t require it for very long. I agree with everyone else, I don’t want to visit if masks are required. Not just because they are frustrating to wear, but masks take away from the Disney experience. I want to escape reality for a week and enjoy Disney and that won’t happen if all cast members and guests are in masks.
My husband and I have our trip scheduled for late September, which has already been reschedule due to Disney closures in May. At this point in our lives its all about your personal comfort level. We all need to respect each other as individuals and stop this judging and telling each other whatever someones personal comfort level is is wrong. Yes we have been told basic face covering does NOT stop the virus, but if it makes someone feel more comfortable to wear it then let them. But forcing those who are comfortable not wearing a face covering is wrong. I understand Disney has a responsibility, but as its website states “By visiting Walt Disney World Resort, you voluntarily assume all risk related to exposure to COVID-19.” I am assuming this risk with or without a face covering. We are comfortable NOT wearing face coverings, we practice social distancing, we cover nose and mouth if we sneeze or cough and we our wash our hands frequently. These are simple and easy guidelines to follow. If you see someone who does not follow these guidelines simply walk away and come back to your activity at a later time. It just boils down to comfort level and common sense.
I can not justify that kind of money and wear a mask all day. I am sorry but my 4 year can’t keep it on for 10 mins let alone most of the day. I also don’t agree that Disney mandates this in a country that is founded on freedoms . I would rather not go until masks are not required . I respect people who want wear a mask I just ask they respect that I don’t want to wear one .
I think there is one very important group of people that we have forgotten about and those are the Disney cast members who work in Disney Parks every day. It is Disney policy that they also wear face mask for their own protection end for the protection of the guest. Disney Cast members do not have the luxury of choosing where they will stand or work or of walking away from somebody who may be sneezing, coughing or asymptomatic. For the most part, they must stand at their posts, and be ready to answer questions or give guidance to the guest. I feel that the guest need to give them the same respect by wearing facemasks if mandated by Disney World. It shouldn’t be about any one individual and their personal preference. There are rules in place at Disney World for everyone’s protection, cast members and guests, and we should all follow the rules and obey the guidelines and have respect for one another.
While walking in the open air of the park, of social distancing is practiced. A mask should not be required. With the airflow outside it should be dispersed and diluted to not be effective.
My husband and i were planning to come back for our anniversary. But, since this maslnthing is mandatory, we will not be coming. I think its absolutely stupid considering how hot FL is . Forbyhe money were going to spend, its not worth it to come. We will be planning our trip else where until this ridiculous rule is no longer in effect.
I don’t work for Disney and I’m no medical professional but what I think Disney should do is when outside no mask is required. When you enter a ride line that’s indoors than masks will be required. No one catching this virus outside especially in the heat and humidity of Florida. At least the ride lines are indoors and air conditioned and it wouldn’t be as bad wearing a mask. Same with Disneyland. It’s hot as hell in august when I’m going and won’t go if I have to wear a mask. If masks are not mandatory when walking outside then shouldn’t be when outdoors in the parks
I’m not paying $10,000+ to walk around a theme park in the middle of the SUMMER heat with a mask on. That is insanity. Sick people can stay home and healthy people can risk it if they want. It’s called freedom of choice. No theme park will see a dime of my money until this ridiculous rule is lifted. And for the record, sweating in a mask and getting it wet defeats the whole purpose of the mask anyway!!!
Here’s a question I have not seen asked…CMs will take everyone’s temperature prior to entering the park and turn anyone away, with their companions, if one has a temp of 100.4 or higher. This is the procedure now in place at Disney Springs. Those persons might have arrived to the parks by bus, monorail, boat or gondola and potentially exposed the other passengers. Will the CMs take temps prior to boarding these passengers before they leave for the parks? If so, will they have to do it again at the parks or, where possible, allow those passengers to bypass the park temp check?
I don’t think anyone here has said that they will openly refuse to follow Disney rules if strict wearing of masks at all times is required at the parks. Note that Legoland got its plans approved but they only strongly recommend wearing masks (as opposed to a requirement). Disney is well aware that some guests will only come if they feel the requirements are as tough, if not tougher, than airlines, and that on the other hand other guests won’t put up with those. I’m sure that executives are trying to weigh pros and cons of multiple approaches to arrive at something that doesn’t turn away more guests then will come. But what I, and apparently many others here, are saying is that we don’t want to spend our money and time at WDW, deal with having to wear a mask in heat/humidity, and for me especially put up with the lack of parades, fireworks, reduced amenities, requirement to make a reservation to get into a particular park on a particular day, virtual queues, etc. My assumption is that it will work a bit like Christmas and other peak days where on property guests get “first dibs” at parks while AP holders and guests staying off site get what’s available and, according to the statement that just came out from Disney Parks, potentially not get admitted into any park.
Based on pics and videos from CItyWalk and Disney Springs, the vast majority of guests are complying with the requirements to wear a mask but a few guests (at least at first glance) don’t appear to be. The food/drink exception can swallow the rule if used/manipulated.
I am a bit concerned that this situation will lead to overly concerned guests trying to run to CM’s with complaints about everyone they don’t feel is fully complying with the policy. For example, the social media reaction to the guests at Disney Springs who tried to grill hot dogs there degraded into immaturity and in some cases apparently discrimination (like what happened after the “incident” at Disneyland last year). I definitely want to treat everyone with respect, but I just don’t want to go there if the masks are required, and if they’re not required, I won’t wear one(even if CM’s have to). For most of the requirements, Disney knows that it’s hurting their bottom line tremendously and they have every incentive to want to end them as soon as it’s appropriate to do so. I am very concerned about the changes which will actually save WDW money (e.g. reduced CM interaction, fewer parades, reduced room housekeeping, closing rides/attractions, reduced Photopass, etc.) being made permanent under the guise of it being a “new normal.” I just hope that doesn’t happen.
*Potential* CO2 poisoning can occur with masks and there is no way that we’re going to wear them if this policy is enforced in the parks because not being able to breathe in the already HOT and HUMID Florida weather is as scary and more damaging than the possibly small probability of getting COVID. We can’t take the chance of passing out just to go to Disney World. Not to mention flying to Orlando from across the country wearing a mask at the airport and on the plane and Magical Express and all over the property. No way, no how. Come October we’ll see but if masks are still required, we are cancelling.
Bruce Bradley, Dr. Braylock isn’t the only doctor who has expressed the same opinion about masks.
Both guests and cast members and guests have the ability to make educated decisions about their own personal safety and choose based on their decisions whether or not being at Disney is right for them. I sincerely hope that people are respectful of ones decisions and refrain from unkind posts and actions in the parks once they open.
Have a trip planned for early September probably will cancel it because of having to wear a mask to pay full price for maybe half the entertainment and wearing a mask in hot humid weather is not my idea fun so I will wait until I don’t have to wear a mask to return understand Disney concerns with keeping people healthy but wearing a mask should b a choice not mandatory
Our group of 8 will cancel our July trip If masks are required. We love Disney and missed our March trip when Disney closed. We really want to go in July and have everything booked, fast passes and dinner reservations set. If masks aren’t required for guests then we will go. If Cast Members have to wear masks I’ll miss seeing all their smiling faces. CMs really are the best!
I will not claim to be any type of expert on masks vs. no mask but I am pretty intuitive on human nature. And as such, I think Disney will regret this mask mandate. I hope that all you folks that are fine with masks enjoy yourselves, but I am guessing that there will be very few of you. Our trip is scheduled for July and I am holding out hope that conditions may change, but my guess is that our trip will also be cancelled. Will I reschedule? I do not know. The whole thing is quite exhausting and far from magical.
This is to Chads comment.
We have a July vacation planned also, and I couldn’t agree with you more.
If there is a mask requirement, we will definitely cancel!!!☹️
My family travels to Disney quite a bit. We were planning on going back in the fall since our Norwegian cruise was cancelled due to Covid-19. However, now with the new mask mandate our plans will be changed again. We WILL NOT revisit Disney World until this requirement has been removed. The mask debate become quite the point of contention in this country and it is a shame the way some people are treating others . It appears we now have a new way to spread HATE, and that is incredibly sad, especially in times like this. Something like this should not be mandated as this is (last time I checked) a free country and it violates our rights. If people want to wear a mask, that is wonderful and from the bottom of my heart, I hope they enjoy their vacation. If people chose not to wear a mask for whatever reason it may be, that should be fine too! I certainly will not be paying $15,000 to go on a vacation where I am forced to wear a mask at all times in public with the exception of eating. That is no vacation at all in my opinion, especially in the sweltering summer heat and humidity in southern Florida. There has not been enough evidence that the benefits of wearing a mask outweigh the negative effects they can have, including the ugliness people are displaying to one another. I know for me personally, I feel like I am suffocating when wearing a mask and my anxiety increases drastically. I also know that when I go out in public, I am extremely cautious. I make sure to socially distance myself, especially at the grocery store and I never touch my face. (I have watched many many people with mask wearing them improperly and fiddling with them constantly, thus spreading their concentrated germs more than I would be without a mask.) Additionally, I will not go anywhere if I am feeling the least bit under the weather as I do not wish to get anyone sick. I have kept my kids home since the middle of March and have educated them on the importance of washing their hands frequently and good personal hygiene, but I will not force them to wear a mask because I know how bad it makes me feel when I wear one. I am not being irresponsible with this choice, but it should be my CHOICE to make, not someone else’s. I understand that business have the right to require this, as it is their choice, but I will not be giving any business my money where I am not allowed in without a mask or I feel discriminated against for not wearing one. Dinsey, I do look forward to seeing you in the future when this restriction is removed, but until then my family will be spending our money elsewhere!
It looks like most of what many of us here feared will be implemented when WDW reopens in July. Masks and reservations required, no character meets and greets, fireworks or parades eliminated, many attractions/experiences closed,playgrounds and interactive experiences closed, less ability to interact with CM’s, etc. So disappointing. I just hope that cost cutters at Disney don’t get any ideas and try to make any of these permanent.
I hope Kris R that you are wrong in you comments about Disney getting ideas about making the changes permanent. Unfortunately I have some concerns that these changes could become part of the new way of doing things throughout Disney as a whole.
My guess though is that Disney will need to address the concerns over of COVID-19 fears very quickly and get the parks back to what guests have come to expect. After looking at how many people on this forum and others that I follow are upset with the procedures in place and potential for large scale trip cancellations coupled with lost revenue from the closure will result in Disney swiftly acting to being people back to the resorts.
We as consumers need to make our voices heard about how these changes, if made permanent, would effect our decision to return.
I’m waiting to cancel my September reservations to see how things are then. I wouldn’t be cancelling over fear of COVID rather, I would cancel due to policies and procedures Disney has in place. I want the whole experience not a half of an experience.
Poly Lady, I hope that I am wrong too. I really am nervous about Disney making permanent changes that would “ruin” the parks for me. I’ve met lots of wonderful CM’s over the years and I’d be upset if I had to deal with a machine instead of them, and of course more importantly think about the human cost of someone losing their job.
The changes that I realistically think have a chance of sticking around are the move towards more contactless/digital purchasing of foods, tickets, services, etc. without a CM; reduced housekeeping in rooms; reduced photopass and character interactions; end or substantial reduction in buffets; making all or at least many more attractions require virtual queue/Fastpass; and reduced transportation options (e.g. no more monorail to TTC). I say these because many of these were in the works before this situation (look at how PhotoPass automated cameras were being set up starting two years ago but then many were taken away, Mobile Ordering, MyDisney, etc.) and would save Disney money. Ironically (in light of current unemployment levels), a reason for the push to eliminate humans was a tight labor market and the associated expenses. Many of the other things I think could stick around also would save Disney money and aren’t “add ons” that guests have to pay for. Reduced housekeeping is something that I’ve been seeing in other hotels (outside of WDW) I stay at or they try hard to entice you to skip the service.
I watched part of the reopening presentations by Disney and SeaWorld yesterday and they definitely are aware of concerns that many of us here voiced. They went to pains to stress that many of these measures were temporary (although to my earlier point there weren’t specifics about which ones those might be). One thing that surprised me is that Disney announced it will have areas in the parks (I guess similar to the old smoking areas) where guests could take off their masks and let their faces “breathe”. The parks know that even the guests who will wear the masks are likely to leave earlier/spend less with the requirement, so I’m sure they’ll want to end that requirement as soon as they can. But again, I am trying to think positive that it will go back to almost normal fairly soon.
I agree with those who say that they hope many of the changes will not be permanent. I am of an age where I HATE “techie” do it yourself stuff. I dont like having to stand there to figure it out and I don’t care for the impersonal nature of it. Plus if there is a problem , who do you speak to to get it corrected?? I have seen hotels which suggest you might want to re-use towels, and I dont really have much of an issue with that as a concept. However, when I am paying for a hotel room, I DO expect my bed to be made each day, and NOT by me!!. If I return to the room mid-day, I dont like the sloppiness of an unmade bed. I dont frankly need the carpet vacuumed each day, but I see that they are (sadly) eliminating carpet in many of the hotels there anyway. I do expect the beds made and trash removed. I travel quite a lot and to be honest, while I love the convenience and atmosphere of being in a Disney hotel, you DO NOT get any bang for the buck. The rooms are small, and often uninspired in decor. Toiletries are TINY. If you are paying megabucks for a room they should be giving you SOME level of value for it. Or, they need to lower the price. A lot. Disney has made a fine art of giving you less, for more. Now is not the time to cut back further. They probably went way into debt to do the Star Wars land and Avatar stuff. They need business back NOW.
Did anyone see anything mentioned on children with issues such as Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder or Asthma? My son has all 3 and cannot wear a mask. I know even if I got a Dr.note or provided proof, that they cannot and will not look at it. So is that part of the population just excluded from Disney now?
Erica, word from Cast Members in Disney Springs is that masks are required for anyone three and up — no exceptions. We’ll have to see how this evolves, if it does.
Erica, I have to say that my concern would be that some crazy at the park would get hysterical seeing your child without a mask. They wont wait for you to explain, and won’t care about that anyway once you do. Its unfortunate but true that some people have been frightened to the point of irrationality about this situation. Recently a young man was in a grocery store with no mask and a woman screamed at him about it. When he ignored her, she pulled down her own mask and spit in his face. I understand she was later arrested. It made the newspapers. You might want to consider visiting when the worst of this situation has passed, or when people return to a more rational way of thinking.
Erica, there’s nothing on the Disney website about an exception for any reason and in fact it seems to imply the opposite. Gabrielle Russon wrote an article In the Orlando Sentinel that addresses a family in a situation similar to yours. Based on what is done on airlines and elsewhere, they should give you an exception to comply with the ADA, but I would check first. But as just written I’d actually be more concerned about rude guests who feel the need to be busybodies. I’ve seen this with the policy on kids under 3 being free, where busybodies feel the need to alert CM’s to any child who they feel is clearly 3 or older getting in without a ticket. Meanwhile, the child would have had to pass at least one CM anyhow. This situation is going to create a lot of drama among guests for sure.
Another thing to note is to make sure your child can handle seeing you in a mask. Seeing a parent with a mask on bothers a lot of children. If in doubt you may wish to reschedule. I hope everything works out for you and wish you the best.
Thanks all! We only get to go every other year so if the masks are still required then I will unfortunately cancel our already rescheduled September trip. And return when/if the masks aren’t required. I am completely fine with temp checks,etc.
Reading all these comments makes me so sad. Instead of planning a trip that is supposed to bring joy, happiness and relaxation into our lives, we are now worried about how to comply with rules on the wearing of masks. This coupled with all the new procedures that will be going into place regarding reservations to get into the parks, restaurants, etc will make for an interesting time for Disney guests.
Very importantly a BIG HUGE thank you to DFB for the work and effort you put into your newsletter blog, guides and uTube posts. You all are absolutely great. I am really glad that I purchased my DFB guide for 2020 Food & Wine. The information you provided was so informative and helpful…even for those of us who are experienced travelers.
It’s not the mask I object to , although I do really!! It’s the cancelled fireworks, parades and shows this is what Disney is all about. And before anyone comments on my ignorance regarding masks, I have a PhD in virology and viruses penetrate these masks very easily.
Most people plan for a long time for a trip to Disney as it is not a cheap holiday and I do believe it will spoil it x
Angelina,
To the best of my knowledge the first person I have seen on either the boards or blogs that has the educational qualifictions to comments on the ability of the virus to pass through the masks. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us.
We made the difficult decision to cancel our Sept.1 Disney trip. My ADR’s cancelled, the masks will not work for my son who has ASD. Even if they made an exception for him,I know someone would make a snide remark and that wouldn’t sit well with me. I wouldn’t be quiet about it. We dont get to go enough either to enjoy only part of the magic. If I was local or AP passholder it would be different. I hope all who get to go enjoy their time. I’d definitely rather be there than in NJ!
Theme parks are a big no for us with the mask mandates. Technically I and my son can not wear them and I’m not sure how my hub will do or really anyone climbing hills and walking in the heat. It seems pretty illogical based on science. Plus there will be no mask relaxing areas lol I consider it all too be that sorry. No way will we go through the work and expense to be sick and uncomfortable, stressed and more. Also the lack of fireworks etc I would imagine they will have to charge less.
Crusty, I ultimately agree with your conclusions (and am getting a refund on my annual pass), but just as an FYI there will be mask relaxing areas in all the WDW parks. Besides getting so much less bang for the buck with no fireworks, no parades, no character interactions, closed attractions, stores, restaurants, etc., needing to wear the masks, and all that, guests have to deal with a reservation system. And then even with the reservations Disney stresses that reservations are not guaranteed! With all this I don’t quite get the point of going (indeed Disney seems to be suggesting that people not go). But again if the lack of an area to take off your mask while in the park was a major concern, that is addressed in WDW (and all the other theme parks).