Back in March 2020, Disney decided to close down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the theme parks reopened in July 2020, the water parks remained closed a bit longer. Disney’s Blizzard Beach will finally welcome guests again on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon remains closed until further notice. Since COVID-19 is still a very serious issue things will look a little bit different than you are used to. Here’s what to expect with the reopening of Disney’s Blizzard Beach.
1. No Reservation System
If you’ve gone to the theme parks since the reopening you are used to having to get a reservation for the parks. Blizzard Beach is not using a reservation system, at least not for the time being. That means that it is first come, first served. You may want to get there early to guarantee your spot since capacity will be limited.
2. Temperature Screenings
Like in most areas of Walt Disney World you will be required to have your temperature taken before entering. It is super quick and it is just for everyone’s safety. You must have a temperature below 100.4F or you will not be allowed to enter the park. Just like the theme parks, it was quick and easy during the preview.
3. Face Coverings
It is a little bit more tricky when it comes to face coverings at the water parks. You were going to be required to wear a face covering while entering and exiting the park, in any retail areas, or when ordering food and beverages. Just like at the parks you may remove your face covering while actively eating or drinking, but you must remain stationary and stay at least six feet away from others. Face coverings, however, will not be allowed in the water or on any slides. During our event we weren’t actually going in the water or riding the slides, so we didn’t really experience how that will work. We will be back when they officially reopen and let you know.
4. Social Distancing
Social distancing is important, especially when not wearing face coverings. Make sure to maintain at least six feet from other guests. You will need to follow all markers on the ground which indicate where to stand. Disney is good at taking the guesswork out of it for you, so please just follow the new guidelines for everybody’s safety. Also, there are signs around the park that ask guests to not move chairs or tables. All the chairs and tables have been separated to the appropriate distance, so please leave things where they are.
5. Enhanced Cleaning
Safety is always Disney’s number one priority, so they have enhanced cleaning just like the rest of Walt Disney World. So that you can do your part there are now hand sanitizing stations and handwashing locations all over Blizzard Beach. Make sure to take advantage of these areas.
6. Dining Options
Just like the theme parks, we were told that Disney is strongly encouraging Mobile Ordering at Blizzard Beach. This is to make sure that everyone has as minimal contact with other people as possible. There are some delicious new offerings available that we got to taste. I am vegan so I couldn’t try all of them, but the vegan sausage with peppers and onions was quite tasty. We also got to try some drinks over at Polar Pub. The clear cups are for alcoholic beverages and the white cups for nonalcoholic. A cold drink will be a nice treat on a hot day.
Please be patient with all of the cast members, they are doing everything they can to keep you safe and still be able to have all the fun and magic that Disney can bring. Thank you, Walt Disney World, for hosting us and giving us a special preview. We all are excited for things to start to get back to normal, and every new opening is a step in that direction.
