Disney World announced its plan to reopen:
The Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will reopen on Saturday, July 11, 2020.
EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will reopen on Wednesday, July 15, 2020.
Disney will hold Cast Member previews and “affinity group” previews ahead of time. Disney did not define “affinity groups,” but it could mean media events, pass holder previews, or other events.
The parks will reopen with limited capacity. Disney will also implement a new theme park reservation system. Guests must have a reservation to enter, and Disney will announce details on how this will work later.
Disney will suspend parades, fireworks, and other events that draw large crowds.
Jim MacPhee, Senior Vice President of Operations of Walt Disney World Resort, presented the recommendation to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force. The Task Force members unanimously approved the proposal.
Orange County Mayor Demmings has approved the plan and sent it to Florida Governor DeSantis for final approval.
Field Inspection
Orange County field inspectors reviewed Disney World property on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. This review included an epidemiologist and a medical director.
They reviewed health screening and best practices, guest arrival and ticketing, restaurant operations, attraction queue management, signage, and sanitization protocols.
They found Disney’s plans satisfactory.
SeaWorld Orlando Announcement
During the meeting, SeaWorld Orlando also announced they will open on June 10 for an employee appreciation night, followed by a June 11 opening for the general public. At SeaWorld, guests age two and over will be required to wear face masks.
SeaWorld will give guests hand sanitizers when they get on rides and when they get off rides. They will continue some character meet and greets, but with social distancing.
Related Timeline Events
Walt Disney World theme parks closed after operations on Sunday, March 15, 2020.
Shanghai Disneyland reopened on May 11, 2020.
Disney Springs reopened to third party operators on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. Disney operated locations reopened on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.
Universal Orlando will reopen to the public on June 5, 2020.
Disney World parks reopen July 1. Will you return soon?