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Walt Disney World set for phased reopening with face masks and social distancing

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Walt Disney World Resort has announced plans for a phased reopening beginning on July 11. The theme park resort in Florida will implement social distancing and face coverings amid COVID-19.

Disney submitted its phased reopening proposal to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force in Florida on May 27.

The task force unanimously approved Walt Disney World’s plan, which is now pending the approval of Florida and Orange County.

Walt Disney World is set to reopen Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom from July 11. EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will reopen on July 15.

Task force approves reopening plans for WDW

walt disney world reopening
Disney

Disney’s phased reopening involves limiting attendance and controlling guest density to ensure social distancing (via Disney Parks Blog).

Experiences with large gatherings, including parades and nighttime spectaculars, will return at a later date at Walt Disney World.

Also, high-touch experiences, including makeovers, playgrounds and character meet and greets, will remain unavailable.

Attendance will be managed via a new reservation system, which requires all guests to book online in advance.

Parades and nighttime spectaculars still unavailable

Currently, Walt Disney World is pausing new ticket sales and hotel reservations in order to focus on visitors with existing tickets and reservations.

Along with annual passholders, guests who already have tickets can make reservation requests in phases, before new tickets are sold.

Disney Vacation Club resorts at Walt Disney World will reopen to members and guests, while Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will start to reopen on June 22.

Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, will also open to members and guests from June 15.

All visitors must book online in advance

shanghai disneyland reopening
Shanghai Disney

Cast members and guests over the age of three will be required to wear face masks in theme parks and communal areas of hotels.

All guests and cast members will undergo temperature screenings before entering a theme park, and cashless transactions are encouraged.

Disney will soon share additional information on enhanced health and safety measures and operational changes.

Universal Orlando Resort is also preparing to reopen. It recently confirmed that Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay will welcome visitors on June 5.

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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