After years of safety protocols, check out the newest step as Walt Disney World returns to normal.
Returning to Normal
When Walt Disney World first reopened in 2020, there were many safety protocols in place. Large plexiglass dividers were placed in queue lines, on select attraction vehicles, and in stores as well. Social distancing markers were placed throughout queue lines. Not only were hand sanitizing stations at each attraction’s exit, but mobile hand washing stations were brought in as well.
Over time, social distancing was removed and hand sanitizing stations gradually disappeared. The dreaded plexiglass dividers have finally been removed from all stores, queue lines, and attractions. Face masks were removed, returned for a time, and have since been removed from all locations including transportation.
Each week it appears that more and more signs point to the return of normal in the Disney Parks. In April, a HUGE milestone was met on our pathway to normal when non-distanced character meets and greets returned. This was one of the biggest “reopenings” that many Disney Guests looked forward to.
Recently we have also shared that Disney entertainment would return to pre-pandemic levels with Finding Nemo, Tumble Monkeys at Festival of the Lion King, and Fantasmic. These are great signs that the magic of Disney is returning.
Last Warning Signs Removed
When entering the Walt Disney World parks, Disney Springs, and even Disney Resorts, Guests were met with a large sandwich board sign. In large lettering it stated “COVID-19 WARNING: We have taken enhanced health and safety measures- for you, our other guests, and cast members. You must follow posted instructions while visiting Walt Disney World.”
The warning continued with the risks of COVID-19 in a public space and concluded with this statement, “By visiting Walt Disney World, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.”
This was not exactly the magical welcome sign that many guests hoped to see before entering the Disney Parks. Today, the last of these signs have been removed from the premises. This is the last remaining remnant of the COVID-19 safety protocols that remained.
Today, the last of these signs have been removed from the premises. This is the last remaining remnant of the COVID-19 safety protocols that remained.
A COVID-19 warning still appears on the Walt Disney World website but no longer appears across the Walt Disney World property.
What do you think of the removal of these signs? Do you think this signals that the parks have finally returned to “normal”? Share your thoughts with us on our Facebook Page.
If back to normal dinning plans ect need to come back too!
When they bring back the dining plan, then I’ll feel like it’s back to normal. And the nighttime parade, although I believe that was cancelled even before COVID.
At this point, if you don’t know that going to Disney world may increase your risk of exposure to COVID a sign isn’t going to help! But I agree with Bob.
Perfectly said Bob!
Signs are put up and taken down, but they have no impact on the park customer. If WDW is to return to normal, they need to bring back the Magical Express Service, allow park hopping at any time, bring back Magic Hours, and focus more on the park customer.