Disney Makes Another Change to Face Cover Policy

On May 15, Disney announced they were no longer requiring Guests to wear masks outdoors. On June 15 face coverings became optional both indoors and outdoors for fully vaccinated Guests in most areas except on Disney transportation. Disney did not require proof of vaccination but did expect unvaccinated Guests to keep their masks on particularly while indoors. Unfortunately, with the rise of COVID cases, Orange County (which encompasses much of Walt Disney World) is in a state of emergency. Disney responded on July 30 by once again requiring masks to be worn at all indoor locations as well as outdoor queues, attractions, and theaters. Today, we’re learning that beginning August 19, face masks will now be optional for Guests when riding outdoor attractions, standing in outdoor queues, and while seated in outdoor theaters.

As reported by InsideTheMagic: “Per Disney: Since May, face coverings have been optional for Guests in outdoor common areas, and beginning Thursday, August 19, face coverings will also be optional for Guests in outdoor attractions, outdoor queues, and outdoor theaters at Walt Disney World Resort. As a reminder, face coverings remain required for all Guests (ages 2 and up) while indoors and in Disney buses, monorail, and Disney Skyliner, regardless of vaccination status.”

New Mickey in Chicago Dooney & Bourke Collection Arrives at Disney Springs

Via wdwnt.com

A new line of Dooney & Bourke bags and wallet have arrived in Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories at Disney Springs. This collection features Mickey Mouse as he tours the icons and landmarks of Chicago.

Chicago Dooney & Bourke Purse — $298

chicago-dooney-and-bourke_10

The purse features both a sizeable main compartment and a zippered exterior pocket.

Chicago Dooney & Bourke Cross-Body Bag — $268

chicago-dooney-and-bourke_17
chicago-dooney-and-bourke_21

The bag comes without a strap attached, and it can be found inside the bag wrapped in protective packaging. The shoulder strap matches the zipper strap in black and red.

Chicago Dooney & Bourke Wallet— $128

chicago-dooney-and-bourke_04

This final matching piece completes the set. The wallet features the same print as the other two, but less can be seen of the print due to the small size.

Abu Added to Disney Fab 50 Statue Collection

Michael James Scott, who plays the Genie in the “Aladdin” Broadway production, announced that Abu will join the Disney Fab 50 character statue collection. The collection is part of the 18-month celebration for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World.

Abu will be found at Magic Kingdom, joining Mickey, Minnie, and Stitch.

Space Mountain Little Golden Book to Blast Off

Disney is already on a roll with their line up of Little Golden Books having introduced stories for the Haunted Mansion and Jungle Cruise.

Now, readers can take off for Alpha Centauri with their newest addition themed to Space Mountain!

The book, found on Amazon, includes the following description:

Fly through space, swerve around asteroids, and discover the universe in this book inspired by the iconic Disney Park Attraction Space Mountain. Perfect for children ages 2 to 5 and Disney fans of all ages, this Little Golden Book is a great way to celebrate National Astronaut Day with your little space explorer!

The hardcover book, which will cost you $5.99 will be made available to major retailers starting January 4, 2022. You can also preorder this adventurous title on Amazon and get your copy on release day.

Cirque du Soleil & Disney Announce Opening Date for Drawn to Life

Via Disney Destinations

The iconic white tent theater at Disney Springs is buzzing with activity once again as Cirque du Soleil artists are returning to the stage to train and rehearse for a spectacular new show. 

Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil & Disney is scheduled to open on Nov. 18, 2021. Tickets will go on sale Aug. 20 to the general public.

Drawn to Life is a thrilling collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. At its core, the show is about the love between a father and a daughter with a story drawing inspiration from Disney’s 100-year heritage of animation. The family-friendly show brings timeless Disney stories and characters to life in an unforgettable way through the use of innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography, musical scores, brand-new animation lovingly created by Disney Animation artists, and some extra touches of Disney magic.

Originally scheduled to debut in spring 2020, Drawn to Life was in its final rehearsals when the pandemic brought live theater performances to a halt. While waiting to return to the stage, artists stayed in shape by training at home or at local facilities. Now, the intermission is over and being back in the theater together is a dream come true for the cast and crew!

For more information about Drawn to Life, visit DisneySprings.com/Cirque. Keep an eye out for some behind-the-scenes stories coming in the weeks ahead!