Once upon a time, a new pair of shoes could change your life… ask Cinderella. Today, the Covid-19 Global Pandemic has stolen a lot from us. Not just the tangible, but it’s hurt our soul.
Disneyland has always been a place we took pride in. Sure, there are other parks throughout the planet, but this was the first.
People from everywhere come here to feel that magic that Walt Disney set out for us. That place where we could leave whatever troubled us behind and be a kid, at least for a day.
Sadly, one of Walt’s characters words have stepped forward and means a lot more these days:
Words of Wisdom
“If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart. I’ll stay there forever”
Winnie the Pooh
We received the news last month that made Pooh’s words hit home…. It was announced that the reopening dates for Disneyland and California Adventure Park that were initially set to reopen on July 17 would be postponed.
Finally, some good news. This week, we take back that part of our lives that had a small part missing. Disney is back… well, kinda.
Disney announced that “Downtown Disney will be reopening in Disneyland on July 9th. There will also be a preview for Cast Members on July 8th. While the shopping and dining district will likely be opening again with outdoor dining only with more locations to come soon, Salt and Straw will be mixing up ice cream for guests again this week!”
What to look out for that’s different? Temperature screenings, hand-washing stations and physical distancing requirements will all be a part of the new Downtown Disney District experience.
FROM THE DISNEY WEBSITE
A variety of shopping and dining experiences will begin to reopen at the Downtown Disney District on July 9, 2020, including the World of Disney store.
We have implemented new health and safety measures based on guidance from health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and appropriate government agencies.
For Cast Members, Operating Participant employees and Guests, there are 6 key things to expect when visiting the Downtown Disney District:1. Limited parking and clearly defined entrances to the Downtown Disney District.
1. Limited parking and clearly defined entrances to the Downtown Disney District
2. Temperature screenings prior to entry
3. Face coverings are required for Guests ages 2 and older
4. Physical distancing measures, including physically-distanced queues and seating, and physical barriers at select locations
5. Temporary operations modifications, including reduced hours at select locations and the suspension of entertainment offerings and high-touch interactive areas
5. An increased focus on cleaning and sanitation, including the addition of hand-washing stations and hand sanitizers in key areas
Since many of these measures will be new, and may evolve, we want to be sure Guests, Cast Members and Operating Participant employees are aware of all these changes before they arrive.
Additional measures and information may be shared closer to the opening date.
Face Coverings
Guests ages 2 and older are required to bring and wear face coverings when visiting the Downtown Disney District.
All face coverings should:
Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
Be secured with ties or ear loops
Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable
Costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with our existing rules.
