Disney World Plans To Reopen In July With Task Force Making Sure Guests Are Wearing Face Masks

Officials from Disney World in Orlando announced Wednesday their proposed plan to reopen the theme park. The park officials are planning a phased reopening of Disney World starting on July 11.

Disney World closed on March 15 due to COVID-19 concerns and restrictions just hours after Disneyland in California was shut down. Officials said the decision was made “in an abundance of caution” to protect employees and guests.

Senior vice president of operations at Disney World, Jim McPhee said that Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom would reopen first on July 11 with Epcot and Hollywood Studios opening a few days later on the 15. However, Disney officials are waiting for their plan to be approved by both the mayor of Orange County and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R).

With the park reopening, officials said they will have “high-energy squads” of employees who will make sure all guests are wearing face masks. The theme park however is considering certain “relaxation zones” to allow guests to remove their masks in these areas only. Park-goers will also have to reserve their entry tickets in advance and have their temperatures checked at the entrance.

While officials plan to reopen the park, all activities and events will not resume as normal. Disney World will not host parades, have firework shows, or character meet-and-greets and all play areas will remain closed.

Disney Springs, an outdoor shopping area, began a phased reopening on May 20. Universal Orlando has similarly reopened shopping areas and restaurants with restrictions and will begin a phased reopening of their parks on June 5.