If you’ve visited Disney Springs since it reopened last week, you’re probably aware of the strict procedures in place to keep guests healthy and safe following the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve seen face masks, hand washing stations, and social distancing markers as part of the heavily-enforced new protocol… but who better to enforce these new rules than the elite soldiers of the Galactic Empire––erm, First Order?
That’s right, Stormtroopers are now on patrol to ensure safety and security in the Disney Springs galaxy.
The first patrol of Stormtroopers have been stationed on a balcony above Kiehl’s, Uno de 50 and Ever After Jewelry Co. in the Town Center side of Disney Springs. Their signature red flags have been hung along the railings to mark their new territory… Where else were they supposed to go if Batuu is sealed for decontamination?
Another set of Stormtroopers can be seen on the roof of the AMC theater. Next to this “Shop, Dine, Play” banner, things almost look dystopian.
Pending approval from government officials, Disney Resort hotels are scheduled to begin reopening starting on July 11.
Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World will reopen to members and guests on June 22, in addition to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida and Hilton Head, South Carolina will also reopen to members and guests starting on June 15.
Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort Hotels, restaurants and other offerings may be modified, limited in capacity and subject to availability or closure.
Plans to support required physical distancing as well as enhanced cleaning measures, along with a number of other safety and cleanliness protocols, will be implemented as part of this planned phased reopening.
With the start of Walt Disney World’s phased reopening on July 11, Disney Vacation Club has shared details on the reopening of its timeshare properties to members and guests. In addition, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will also be reopening.
Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World will reopen to members and guests on June 22, in addition to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, will also open to members and guests starting on June 15.
Plans to support required physical distancing as well as enhanced cleaning measures, along with a number of other safety and cleanliness protocols, will be implemented as part of this planned phased reopening.
Disney is temporarily pausing new ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations in order to focus on guests with existing tickets and reservations. Disney Vacation Club members can still make new reservations.
Disney will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that will require all guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance:
“At this time, we are temporarily pausing new ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations so we can focus on guests with existing tickets and reservations (Disney Vacation Club members can still make new reservations). Existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders will be able to make reservation requests in phases before new tickets are sold; we’ll be reaching out to these guests soon to provide additional details. We will resume new ticket sales and hotel reservations after that period of time. Theme park reservations will be limited due to attendance limitations and will be subject to availability.”
More details about this new reservation system will be released soon.
After months of unprecedented closure, Walt Disney World has presented its plans for a phased reopening before the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force group, the last major Central Florida theme park to do so after finalized announcements from Universal Orlando and Sea World.
Walt Disney World plans to begin its phased reopening on the following dates:
Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Saturday, July 11
Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT – Wednesday, July 15
Walt Disney World will reopen much like Shanghai Disneyland, on the basis of a reservation system. Guests will have to secure a reservation on the day they intend on attending the park.
The main entrance to the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. (Photo courtesy, Walt Disney World)
Major changes to operating procedures:
A reservation system will be in place and be used to visit the parks.
Required face coverings while on property. This will be enforced by cast members.
Reduced capacity of theme parks, restaurants, retail, attractions, buses, monorails, and other transportation.
Temporary suspension of parades, fireworks, and other events that create crowds.
Temporary suspension of high touch activities such as character meet & greets, playgrounds and water playgrounds.
Disney is also developing “relaxation zones” for guests to break off from the main areas and take off masks in designated spots.
Increased mobile food ordering options will be available, and cashless transactions will be encouraged throughout.
The following COVID-19 General Health and Safety Protocols have been revealed. Signage will be posted throughout the parks and attractions:
Plans were presented during today’s Task Force meeting, headed by Jim MacPhee, Senior Vice President of Operations of Walt Disney World Resort. The phased reopening proposal has since passed with zero opposition from the Task Force.
Reopening plans will require endorsement from the Orange County Mayor before they can be submitted to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for final approval. You can view the full Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force Meeting from today below:
For a recap of what the current experience is like at Disney Springs, including temperature checks and new social distancing guidelines, click here. Disney Springs expanded its offerings today with the reopening of the World of Disney store, among other Disney-owned and operated restaurants and stores.
