Tag: face coverings

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

As the Walt Disney World theme parks prepare to welcome guests again, it’s only natural that there are questions GALORE!

Early Morning at Cinderella Castle

There are a LOT of new guidelines and policies to keep up with. Don’t worry if you’re still super confused, because we’ve got ya covered…literally!

Wearing a face covering is going to be one of the BIGGEST adjustments guests will have to make when visiting the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom when they reopen on July 11th and Epcot and Hollywood Studios when they reopen on July 15th.

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

But before you go, you may be wondering: Who has to wear a face covering? When do you have to wear a face covering? What even IS a face covering?!

Who has to wear a face covering?

A recent update confirmed that Cast Members and ALL guests ages TWO and up will be required to wear a face covering while at the Walt Disney World Resort.

American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs

According to Disney, you need to bring your own face mask.

Where do you have to wear a face mask?

We already know you need to wear a face mask while visiting Disney Springs, and you’ll have to wear them all around the theme parks. Additionally, hotel guests will have to wear face masks while in common areas of the resort, according to a Disney rep.

Disney will require guests to wear face masks unless eating or swimming while at a resort hotel

As previously reported, you will NOT have to wear your face covering when dining and swimming! Guests also will not be required to wear a mask while in their own rooms.

Luna Park Pool

In the proposal Disney offered to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, it was mentioned they may be offering “relaxation zones.”

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

These are spots “in and around and off the property” where folks can remove their face coverings for a while and breathe in that fresh Florida air. Universal Studios introduced similar locations when they reopened, called URest areas.

What counts as a face covering?

That’s two big questions out of the way! But you might still be wondering… what counts as a face covering at Disney World?

Cast Member with required face mask

The CDC has great information regarding face coverings! But since we’re here for Disney World, it’s important to note that the Disney World website currently states the following in regard to face coverings. They must:

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

So, what constitutes as a face mask?! Scarves tied snugly around your face, gaiters, buffs, disposable or reusable masks (including bandanas), and handmade or homemade masks are all examples of what is allowed Disney World.

Monsters Inc. Bandanas

When it comes to religious coverings, the most important thing to note is that your face and nose MUST be covered and your covering should fit snugly against the side of your face. If you are unsure whether or not your religious covering will be approved as a face mask, it’s best to bring an alternative with you JUST IN CASE! And it’s important to note that Disney can change its face covering policy at any time!

Face Masks at American Threads

One quick note here to remember is that the rules regarding costumes and masks still apply! Sorry to those who thought they would be able to get away wearing their Darth Vader masks as face coverings! Costume helmets/masks, ski masks, or anything else that covers the entire face (excluding religious coverings) are also BIG no-nos at Walt Disney World.

Disney Springs Planet Hollywood Server

A Cast Member we spoke with said face shields are also an acceptable face covering since they cover the nose and mouth. They haven’t seen many folks wearing face shields, but they’re allowed.

While it’s been reported that Disney Springs has a very limited amount of disposable masks for those who show up without one, it’s SUPER important to note that you shouldn’t rely on them! Definitely bring your own!

What will happen if you refuse to wear a face covering?

Face coverings will be required…but what will happen if you refuse to wear one? With increased security and social distancing squads on the lookout for face coverings, it’s HIGHLY likely that those without proper face coverings or those disobeying the guidelines will be quickly addressed! So be sure to cover up!

Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs

In compliance with Osceola County law, you WILL be required to wear face masks at Disney World once it reopens. Don’t let that get you down, though! Use your mask as just another Disney accessory! If you’re stuck picking a fun mask and need a little inspiration, check out these ADORABLE face coverings!

Are there other questions you have about face masks in Disney World? Let us know!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, disney resorts, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, 2020 magic kingdom pin, Animal Kingdom, coronavirus, coronavirus disney parks, coronavirus disney world, Disney Face Masks, disney hotels, disney parks reopen, disney parks reopening, Disney World, Disney World health measures, Epcot, face coverings, face masks, face masks at Disney World, health and safety measures, health and safety procedures, Hollywood Studios, mandatory face masks, relaxation zones, social distancing

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8 Ways to ACTUALLY Convince Your 2 Year Old Wear a Mask in Disney World

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

There are lots of health-based changes coming to Disney World as it reopens.

Disney Springs Reopening

Perhaps the most contentious of these changes is the required face coverings in all public areas of the resort. We’ve already shared what it’s like to spend the day in a face mask in the Florida heat and some tips for feeling comfortable. But everyone ages 2 and up has to wear one — which is leaving a number of parents wondering how on earth do you get your 2-year-old to wear a mask all day??? We’ve got some tips to help!

1. Choose the right mask.

If you think picking the right mask for you is tough, comfort is going to be about 9000 times more important when choosing a mask for your child! Disney is not requiring a specific type of face-covering to enter the park, which means you’re good with an ear-loop mask, a tied mask, a neck gaiter (the kind you wear around your neck and pull up), and more as long as it securely covers your nose and mouth.

American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs

You don’t want to give your 2-year-old the same kind of mask that you’re wearing. First of all, you want their mask to fit their little faces. Forbes has a great list of masks for infants and kids. The better the mask fits, the fewer times your kid might try to rip it off in a fit of discomfort.

Some of the parents on our team have had more luck with the neck gaiter-style face masks. These don’t have the annoying loops for the ears and feel more familiar and comfortable — like wearing a scarf.

Kids respond to colors, patterns, and designs. Let them choose a few patterns they like — they’ll be more likely to wear it if THEY chose it themselves (but more on that in a bit!).

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

If you opt for a traditional mask, REALLY put thought to how it secures. Members of our team with young kids had pretty bad results with masks with ties (they slip down your kid’s head, they’re too tight, too loose…basically they’re drove our kids [and us!] crazy!).

2. Plan for and promise a LOT of breaks.

Once you’re in the parks, get ready to take a LOT of breaks. Like the URest Areas in Universal Orlando, Disney has proposed “relaxation zones” in the parks where you and your toddler can remove your face masks and take a breather.

URest Area Entrance

Promise your kid that you’ll take breaks whenever they need one and plan to take a LOT of breaks in the day. In fact, you might even take more than you had originally planned.

If those masks get irritating or your child isn’t used to them (especially the younger kiddos), you’re going to need to know where the nearest relaxation zone is FAST.

Remember that meals can be an option for a break, too! Guests can remove masks while seated at a dining table so factor that in when planning your theme park day. Order up some chicken nuggs and let your kiddo take a much-needed break at a quick-service spot or book a dining reservation (once they become available again) to let your tyke relax mask free over a long meal.

3. Give them treats as a break and a reward.

If there’s one thing that might work with getting a fussy kid to wear a mask, it’s bribery. Not speaking from experience or anything! So, if your little one is hanging in there with their mask, get ready to grab that Mickey Bar. Even if you would typically buy your littles a treat in the park, frame it as a reward so they feel better about keeping their masks on.

Premium Mickey Ice Cream Bar at Disney World

Plus, in Disney Springs, guests are allowed to pull their mask down while eating a grab and go treat. If the Disney parks follow a similar model, that Mickey Bar or rice krispie treat might act as both a reward and a mask break too.

Coconut Chocolate Rice Krispie

Consider alternative treats as well! Little ones might love a fun Mickey straw that they can sip under their mask, or let them have a piece of candy to keep them occupied and not so worried about their mouths being covered.

4. Practice wearing a mask at home.

This next one is a BIG ONE. Before your trip, make sure that you AND your kiddo practice wearing a mask at home. Things might not go too well if your 2-year-old has never seen or worn a mask in their life and suddenly has to wear one for hours on end in the Florida heat.

Disney Springs Safety Ambassadors © Disney

In fact, some kids might not be used to having anything on their face in general. Consider starting with sunglasses or something else on the face that doesn’t impede breathing.

Once they’re comfy with that, move on to a mask. Start by having them wear it for a little bit at a time and work up to longer periods. This will help them to feel more comfortable and you can get a sense of their limits.

Advent Health Cast Member at Temperature Screening

Don’t just have them try their mask out inside either! Wear a mask WITH your masked kiddo so they see it’s a whole-family activity and go on a walk to get used to wearing one outdoors. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also take them to a park, mall, or community area where masks are required to show them that others are wearing them as well.

5. Let them pick out their masks — and your mask!

We touched on this one initially, but seriously this can be the key for many parents — let your kids pick out not just their masks but yours as well! They might be more inclined to wear a mask if it has their favorite characters or a silly print on it. Disney has some awesome branded mask designs that your kid might love!

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

Masks can be frightening for some small children so having them involved in the process of picking them out and making an event out of it makes it feel special. Plus, if you’re wearing a mask THEY select, they might respond better to seeing mom or dad decked out in a mask.

6. Give them an incentive if they wear the mask all day.

Remember that bribery thing we talked about? Yeah, it’s gonna be your best weapon in your “keep my toddler masked” arsenal! Consider coming up with an incentive if your kid will wear their mask all day, and stick to it. If you promise them something, give it to them if they do well and withhold it if they don’t so that they know you expect them to do better the next day.

Once Upon A Toy

Opt for something you wouldn’t normally get them like a super cool toy from a Disney gift store. Sorry mom and dad, you might be spoiling junior this trip to entice them to follow the rules! If they feel like it’s special or they HAVE to have it, you might see their sense of restraint kick in. Mask on all day? You can get anything you want from the gift shop (within reason )!

Bribery=Your Best Friend!

Keep in mind that for many kids, their greatest weakness comes in the form of a chance to play in your resort pool (we totally get it — Disney’s pools are mega fun). Guests do NOT need to wear a mask while swimming so this is a way to give your kids a (free!) reward they’re probably already begging for AND a chance to go mask-free for a while.

Disney’s Riviera Resort Pool

If your kid is practically a mermaid, like many of ours, plan on heading back to your resort mid-day for a dip in the pool and remind your kid if they wear their mask all day, they have swimming to look forward to!

7. Keep your kiddo cool!

We’ve got another big one for you here. Keep your kid cool! This is an important tip for any time in Disney World (Florida is HOT!) but it’s going to be especially important with those masks! Most face masks don’t impede breathing but they will trap heat on your little one’s face.

Avoid paying for overpriced water!

There are a few ways to help mitigate the effects of this. Grab a clip-on fan for your stroller or a handheld fan that you can use to give your kid some extra air when they need it. Remember, you can get free ice water from any quick-service location, so stop for a cool drink whenever you can. Plus, you can always duck into gift shops or attractions for an AC escape!

8. Show them that wearing a mask is normal, and even fun!

Ok, so wearing a mask isn’t normal and it would be a stretch for most of us to call it fun. But you know the same way you might put a big smile on and eat those brussels sprouts in front of your kiddo so they realize it’s not a bad thing, and they can do it, too? Same thing here. We’ve touched on this already with letting them pick their mask design and taking them somewhere that masks are mandatory, but we figured it deserved its own point too.

Cast Member with required face mask

If you think it will work, try enlisting an older sibling (one they look up to or think is cool!) to help with encouraging the younger one to wear a mask. Or, go about it in a cute and fun way! Consider getting them a new Mickey plush to bring on the trip and buy or sew a little mask for their new Mickey! This can help normalize the idea of masks and make them less scary.

Overall, you need to take your kid’s individual needs into account when considering a return to Disney. Know their limits; for some, wearing a mask all day in a theme park just might not be feasible. Gauge in advance whether the trip is worth the effort for your family, if it is, get ready to have fun! If not, consider holding off until masks are no longer required, or your child gets more used to them.

Have any plans for getting your little one to wear a mask? Share some tips in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney parks, Featured, Walt Disney World, Disney With Kids, Disney World reopening, face coverings, face masks, kids face coverings, kids face masks

Tags disney parks, Disney With Kids, Disney World reopening, face coverings, face masks, Featured, kids face coverings, kids face masks, Walt Disney World

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Which Face Masks are the MOST Comfortable to Wear ALL DAY at Disney World…And Which Should You Avoid?

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 3, 2020

Searching for the perfect face covering can be a frustrating and overwhelming endeavor. There are SO many styles of masks out there, with all different sorts of materials, straps, and patterns imaginable.

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

If you’re one of the people that stays from rope drop to close, you’ll be looking at twelve or more hours living with your face mask, so comfort is going to be KEY. And with Disney requiring face coverings for all guests above the age of two, it’s advantageous to ensure you’re happy with your mask choice BEFORE you head out to the parks!

What face-covering material is the most comfortable and/or effective?

The CDC recommends that cloth face masks are the most effective when slowing the spread of illness and keeping others safe. But not all types of cloth are created equal, and some are touted as more comfortable and effective than others.

Cast Member with required face mask

When shopping for face masks, you will want to look for materials that are lightweight and breathable. In terms of effectiveness, the material that seems to work best at keeping air-borne particles at bay is a tightly-woven fabric such as cotton.

The number of layers does not seem to be a factor in effectiveness when you have a mask that is made out of these tighter-woven materials (though many still advocate for 2-layers at least). Face masks made of silk or a silk-cotton combination also seem to be effective.

Look for masks with a soft ear loop material

If you opt for a mask with ear loops, the material of the loops is just as important as the material of the face covering itself!

The traditional elastic material commonly used for ear straps can cause discomfort for some if worn over a prolonged period of time. Those elastic straps can wear on your ears and cause irritation, especially in the heat if you start sweating. We found these masks on Amazon that use softer material for the ear straps!

This pack of three is multi-layered and features a soft ear loop material. They’re $15.99 on Amazon.

Shop for this three-pack of face masks here!

These next masks come with a nose bridge wire, offering a closer fit around your nose so those with glasses do not need to worry about fogging up!

These masks also have two layers of fabric, providing more protection for those around you! You can pick up a set of two for $12.50.

Shop for these two-layered face masks here!

Invest in some ear hooks

If the masks you currently use have those traditional elastics, you can purchase a set of ear hooks that take the pressure off of your ears! There are two types of hooks we looked into. The first hook sits on the back of your head and features several “knobs” that the elastics loop around.

These have decent reviews on Amazon and allow the wearer to adjust to three different sizes! You can shop a pack of ten for $13.99.

Shop for these ear hooks here!

The next set of ear relief is these ear protectors that go around the straps themselves, giving your ears a more “cushioned” fit.

You can get a pack of five on Amazon for $7.99. This is a fairly inexpensive way to make your masks comfier around your ears without having to invest in a new set of masks!

Stock up on a pack of ear protectors here!

Shop for masks with adjustable ties

Regardless of how comfortable the ear loop material is, if it doesn’t fit, it can still cause irritation and provide for a less-than-stellar experience. Many masks come in one standard size, and even some masks with elastic earloops don’t exactly fit a “one-size-fits-all” model.

Vera Bradley Face Mask

If you have a mask that is too small or too large, you may run into some trouble if you cannot adjust the size of your mask! One way to avoid an ear catastrophe altogether is to wear a mask with ties that go around your head. The benefits of masks with ties are that you can adjust the tightness of the ties to your liking, plus it removes all of the discomfort around your ears.

You can pick up this face mask with long ties to fit around your head and neck on Amazon for $12.99.

Shop for this face mask with ties here!

When in doubt, go for a face covering with no straps at all!

If you’ve exhausted all of those traditional face mask options and you can’t seem to solve the ear problem, go with a face buff! Also known as a “neck gaiter,” these are a single piece of cloth that wraps around the lower half of your face and extends down your neck.

Many of these neck gaiters, like this one on Amazon, are moisture-wicking, meaning your face will stay dry all day long. We find kids have a VERY easy time wearing this style of mask if yours are picky like ours!

You can grab this neck gaiter on Amazon for $15.95. Note that these are not made out of cotton and are 80% polyesters and 20% spandex, so these will not be AS effective as a cotton cloth mask. If you find these to be more comfortable, be prepared to wash these more frequently!

Shop for this first neck gaiter here!

Some have raised concerns that the tightness of these may be uncomfortable. We suggest picking one up and testing it out for yourself! These are often used in sporting and other physical activities such as biking, fishing, etc. If tightness is still a concern, we found a neck gaiter with a looser fit.

This neck gaiter is also available on Amazon for $13.99.

Shop for this neck gaiter here!

What types of face coverings should you AVOID?

Per CDC guidelines, at this time surgical masks or N-95 respirators are still encouraged to be avoided for personal use and to leave those types of face coverings in supply for health care professionals. Another type of face masks that have been seen in public are those with “breathing valves.”

While they may seem appealing due to the increased breathability, research indicates that the valves allow air and particles to be exhaled out, and if the wearer is an asymptomatic carrier, pathogens could easily escape through the valves of the mask.

This makes these types of masks less effective at protecting others, which is the primary reason for the face-covering protocols.

Face Masks at American Threads

No matter what mask you choose to wear, experts recommend that you wash your mask after every use. So if you are visiting Disney World for a week this summer, be prepared to hand-wash or machine wash your mask every day, or bring enough masks to last the week!

American Threads Face Masks

When it comes to comfort, you may need to try several masks to see what will work best for you! Regardless of which mask you choose, we suggest you spend a couple of days wearing it for an extended period of time to grow accustomed to prolonged wear before heading to the parks. When it comes to effectiveness, a cloth mask made with tightly-woven cotton is going to be your best bet.

Interested in making your own face mask? Learn how to do so here!

What face masks have you found to be the most comfortable? Share in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Featured, Walt Disney World, cloth face masks, Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face coverings, face masks

Tags cloth face masks, Disney Face Masks, Disney World, face coverings, face masks, Featured, Walt Disney World

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The ULTIMATE GUIDE to the Reopened Disney Springs in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 2, 2020

On May 20th, Disney Springs began a phased reopening. And we’ve been there every step of the way to see how each business has been adapting to the changes.

Disney Springs

In fact, we’ve been visiting every day so we can report back on all the dining, shopping, and safety info you need.

Since we’ve written A LOT on the subject, we wanted to provide you with the “ultimate guide” to navigating the newly reopened Disney Springs! We have the scoop on all of the health and safety measures taking place as well as where to eat, drink, and shop and how eating, drinking, and shopping will look! Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know!

Entering Disney Springs

In order to help enforce the new health and safety precautions in place, the process for entering Disney Springs is a bit different than we’ve seen in the past.

Temperature Screening

There are differences in parking, where you can enter, and what you need to know and do before you go.

Operating Hours

Disney Springs is officially operating with reduced hours (10AM to 10PM).

Disney Springs

However, those hours are subject to change. To align with Orange County’s temporarily enacted curfew, Disney Springs is operating only until 7PM until further notice.

Parking

Surface parking lots and valet are unavailable. Currently, parking is only available in the Lime and Orange Parking Garages to help reduce capacity, and once these garages are full, guests won’t be able to park there and visit Disney Springs.

Orange Parking Garage

We have seen that the Orange Parking Garage has been opening well before 9AM most days. Of course, this is always subject to change.

Entrances

At this time, there are only five entrances open to Disney Springs, all of which have temperature screening checkpoints.

This Way to Temperature Screening

The entrances are at the Orange and Lime garages, the Marketplace Entrance, the bus loop near Town Center, and the rideshare drop off area.

All your questions about the reopened Disney Springs, ANSWERED!

Health and Safety Initiatives

Guests will notice a number of health and safety precautions throughout Disney Springs, some of which they’ll experience before they even have the chance to enter.

AdventHealth Signage

From what face coverings to wear to what temperature you cannot exceed to what social distancing you’ll see, we’re going to cover all of the protocols Disney has implemented below.

Face Coverings

All guests aged 2 and older are required to wear a proper face covering while visiting Disney Springs — guests without masks will not be admitted.

Advent Health Cast Member at Temperature Screening

These face coverings should cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly, be secured with ties or ear loops, and be made of a breathable material. The face coverings can either be a reusable fabric mask or disposable.

Required Measures Sign

It’s important to keep in mind you must wear your face mask for the entire duration of your visit. The only times you’re allowed to take it off are when you’re seated in a restaurant or walking around with a food or drink in hand, in which case you’re allowed to lower your mask.

Click here to learn when you will and won’t have to wear a mask in Disney World

Temperature Screenings

In addition to mandatory face masks, all guests are required to have their temperature checked before entering Disney Springs. Health care workers from AdventHeath are providing temperature screenings for guests to help ensure accuracy.

Disney Springs

Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and above will not be allowed to enter.

Temperature Check

If a guest does test with an elevated temperature, they’re allowed to attempt a second screening a few minutes later after waiting in a tented “cool down” area. But if they still test above the maximum temperature, they will be asked to leave along with their entire party.

Rescreening Tent

Though there is a temperature check, there is no bag check to enter Disney Springs.

Click here to learn more about temperature checks in Disney World

Increased Sanitation

Guests will find hand sanitizer stations throughout Disney Springs.

Hand sanitizer station

Portable handwashing stations are also located throughout Disney Springs. They’re highly visible and easy to locate, but if you need to use one and can’t find it on your own, ask a friendly Cast Member, and they’ll be happy to direct you!

Click here to see the handwashing stations in Disney Springs

Social Distancing Squads

Speaking of wonderful Cast Members, we’ve had our first chance encounter with the Social Distancing Squad at Disney Springs!

Cast Member

These Cast Members are on hand to provide guests with additional support while ensuring nobody is breaking any rules.

Click here to learn more about these Cast Members

Social Distancing

In order to reduce contact between guests, there are social distancing markers placed throughout Disney Springs.

World of Disney Social Distancing Stickers

While Disney has its own standard set of social distancing markers, other third-party businesses are using their own signage. For instance, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company is using coffee bean floor decals to show guests where to stand and keep them at a six-foot distance.

Joffrey’s Coffee Bean Distancing Markers

Click here to learn more about the social distancing markers in Disney Springs

Dining in Disney Springs

While not all dining locations have reopened in Disney Springs, guests will find a wide variety of options to choose from, with new locations continuing to open.

George Miliotes at Wine Bar George’s Reopening

From new utensil dispensers to contactless menus, and mobile order payment updates, we’ve seen a bunch of new procedures at some of our favorite places to dine in Disney World.

Table Service Dining

Since May 20th, we’ve eaten at STK, The Boathouse, Wine Bar George, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, T-Rex, Frontera Cocina, and more table service spots to see what changes they’ve implemented.

Sever at The Boathouse

Changes at table service locations include, but are not limited to: lower capacity, socially distanced tables, and single-use paper menus. We’ve also noticed some locations providing disposable bags to store our masks, and using contactless payment methods.

digital Checkout at STK

Note that at this time, reservations for Table-Service restaurants can NOT be made through the My Disney Experience app, but certain locations are currently bookable on Open Table or directly through the restaurants.

See what it’s like to dine at several Disney Springs restaurants that have just reopened here!

Quick Service Dining

We’ve also visited Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Chicken Guy!, D-Luxe Burger, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., Pizza Ponte, Morimoto Asia Street Food, The Polite Pig, Earl of Sandwich, Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC, The Basket, 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck, and The Daily Poutine. Yep — we’ve been STUFFED lately!

Pork Rinds at The Polite Pig

In addition to single-use menus, quick service spots are also spacing out their tables, putting up plexiglass in front of cash registers, and limiting capacity in addition to other health and safety measures.

Check out our answers to ALL your questions about the reopening of Disney Springs here!

Snacking at Disney Springs

If you’re feeling thirsty or need a small snack, you’re in luck — plenty of outdoor pop-up bar and snack carts are now fully operational!

Disney Springs Pop-Up Bar Cart

Beyond alcoholic beverages, there are carts selling Mickey Pretzels and Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars! And if you’re jonesing for some Pineapple Dole Whip — the snack you voted as your most-loved Disney food — you can find it in Disney Springs right now too!

Dole Whip in Disney Springs

And for you folks at home with refillable popcorn buckets, you CAN still get ’em refilled at Disney Springs right now! If you forgot yours at home, Disney is selling some basic popcorn buckets so you can fill up on the good stuff!

Click here to see what it’s like snacking around reopened Disney Springs

Shopping in Disney Springs

World of Disney

As of May 27th, World of Disney is open daily from 10AM to close.

World of Disney

While the first day was CRAZY with over a three-hour wait and a new virtual queue system just to step foot in the store, the crowds have mostly calmed down since then.

Ears Section of World of Disney

Another thing we’ve noticed is the store has been opening earlier on certain days than its posted operating hours.

World of Disney

When we spoke with a Cast Member about why the store was already open (well before 10 AM) she told us they are trying to get a better handle on things and are taking it day-by-day. But your mileage may vary, so don’t count on getting in before the designated opening time!

Click here to learn more about the very busy reopening of World of Disney!

Store Capacity

Both Disney-owned stores and third party shops are limiting the number of guests allowed in a store at any given time. Shops such as Sephora, Under Armour, and World of Disney have reached capacity over the recent week, for example.

Virtual Queue

World of Disney has initiated a virtual queue for busy days, while other shops have guests wait outside in lines.

Click here to see our experience when Under Armour when hit capacity

Social Distancing at Stores

In addition to limiting the number of shoppers, plexiglass shields have been installed at most stores’ cash registers, and queues have been outfitted with social distancing markers.

Please Stand Here Markers at Checkout

Although contactless forms of payment are highly encouraged, most businesses are still accepting cash.

Contactless Payment Sign

We’ve seen signage asking guests to limit the handling of products and we’ve also seen that many larger stores have defined entrances and exits.

What About Samples?

Smelling spices at The Spice Tea & Exchange, playing with Legos at the Lego Store, or trying on a little makeup at Sephora is half the fun of shopping! But what about samples and trying out new products right now?

Sephora

Upon entering The Spice & Tea Exchange, we were offered hand sanitizer. However, we were still able to open jars to get a sense of the 140-plus spice blends! The jars and displays were being regularly wiped down by Cast Members.

The Spice & Tea Exchange

As for Sephora, it’s offering freshly sanitized shopping baskets and wiping down counters, but testers are for display only and all Beauty Bar services are temporarily suspended.

Safety Measures at Sephora

We also recently stopped by the newly reopened Lego Store to get ourselves equipped for Legoland Florida’s June 1st reopening.

LEGO Store employee shows a product to guests

In addition to having just one working entrance, the shop’s interactive touch screen computers have been turned off and bins with build-your-own parts were unavailable.

Computers are shut down in the LEGO Store

Store associates were also on hand to give guests products — we were NOT allowed to grab items ourselves — and guests stood to the side of cashiers when purchasing items instead of in front of them.

Click here to see more of our experience at the Lego Store!

Where to Buy Face Masks at Disney Springs

While we haven’t seen any face masks for sale yet at Disney-owned locations, we have spotted some at American Threads, Vera Bradley, and The Polite Pig.

Vera Bradley Face Masks

The stock at stores is always changing, so you never know what you’ll find at Disney Springs!

Read about our shopping experience at Disney Springs here!

Disney Springs Attractions

The new Cirque du Soliel show, Drawn to Life, has been postponed and other Disney Springs attractions such as the NBA Experience and The VOID are closed.

But there is one attraction you can still enjoy at Disney Springs!

Soar in the Sky on the Aerophile

The Aerophile, also known as the hot air balloon at Disney Springs, IS operating right now!

Disney Springs

Aerophile flights are available for $20 per person. The attraction is enforcing social distancing both in the line and in the balloon. Whereas you could wander the balloon before, now you need to stay in a designated spot while in flight.

The queue area for Aerophile

Cast members also told us they are wiping down the carriage area between parties to keep guests as safe as possible.

Click here to learn more about riding the Aerophile in reopened Disney Springs

Atmosphere

Normally, when you walk around Disney Springs, there are bands playing music and street performers entertaining crowds. But right now, those performances are on pause.

Stormtroopers

But not ALL is lost. In fact, we spotted some particularly intimidating guys enforcing social distancing! That’s right…STORMTROOPERS were patrolling above Uno de 50 recently! They’ve since relocated to the balcony above AMC!

Yes, there are STORMTROOPERS in Disney Springs today!

While it’s a far cry from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we’ll still take it!

Click here to learn more about these unique security guards in Disney Springs!

As you can see, we’ve been pounding the pavement at Disney Springs to bring you all the details you need for your next visit as well as spotting as much new stuff as we can find!

Be sure to plan ahead for the dining and shopping experiences you want to visit, and you’ll set yourself up for a fantastic day at Disney Springs — even if it does look a little different than your last visit.

What Will It Take For You to Feel Safe at Disney World? Here’s What Our Readers Said!

Have you visited Disney Springs since it has reopened? Share your story with us in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, AdventHealth, aerophile, dining in disney springs, Disney Springs Counter Service, Disney Springs entertainment, Disney Springs health measures, Disney Springs Parking, disney springs quick service, disney springs reopen, disney springs reopening, disney springs reopening faq, disney springs restaurants, disney springs shopping, disney springs table service, Disney Springs temperature checks, do I have to wear a face mask?, eating, entertainment, face coverings, face masks, hand sanititzer stations, hand sanitizer, Hand Sanitizer Station, health checkpoints, lego store, lime garage, mandatory face masks, orange garage, Parking, sanitation, shopping, social distancing, stormtroppers, Table Service Restaurants, temperature checks, temperature screenings, wearing face masks, where to buy face masks, World of Disney

Tags AdventHealth, aerophile, Counter-Service, dining in disney springs, Disney Springs, Disney Springs Counter Service, Disney Springs entertainment, Disney Springs health measures, Disney Springs Parking, disney springs quick service, disney springs reopen, disney springs reopening, disney springs reopening faq, Disney Springs Restaurants, disney springs shopping, disney springs table service, Disney Springs temperature checks, do I have to wear a face mask?, eating, entertainment, face coverings, face masks, Featured, hand sanititzer stations, hand sanitizer, Hand Sanitizer Station, health checkpoints, lego store, lime garage, mandatory face masks, orange garage, Parking, sanitation, Shopping, Snacks, social distancing, stormtroppers, Table Service Restaurants, Table-Service, temperature checks, temperature screenings, Walt Disney World, wearing face masks, where to buy face masks, World of Disney

Disney Parks Other

5 Things You Need To Know If You’re Planning to Go To Disney World the Day it Reopens

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 30, 2020

With the reopening of Shanghai Disneyland and Disney Springs behind us, and Disney World’s proposed July 11th reopening awaiting approval, we’ve got our minds set on reopening day for Disney World.

Walt Disney World

Still, as we’ve seen in Shanghai, things might be pretty different when we get back into the parks. The past few weeks have shed some serious light on what the domestic parks may look like thanks to observations in China, comments from Disney executives, and the proposed reopening plan for Disney World.

If you want to head to Disney World on reopening day, you’ll want to keep these things in mind.

1. Before you go, consider what travel will look like.

First off, be aware that your travel plans might look a little different — particularly if you’re flying. Though some states have suggestions not to travel, you shouldn’t have as much to worry about if you’re driving to Disney World (but always check on the current policies for your home state and for Florida!).

Flying is a whole different story. There may still be some travel restrictions such as limited flights and lower capacities. Plus, airports could be utilizing new health and safety measures that elongate your time pre or post-flight. Airlines are facing major changes due to the global health crisis, and it is still to be seen what the long-term effects may be.

Orlando International Airport

If you’re planning a trip to Disney for the reopening, make sure you have your travel plans worked out. Be sure to allow some extra time for potential hang-ups, longer queue lines, and other surprises during travel.

See what changes are being made with the TSA here.

2. You might need to make a reservation — even if you have an Annual Pass.

With capacity limitations, you may need to think about the prospect of HOW to get into Disney World. In Shanghai Disneyland, the parks are currently limited to a capacity of less than 30%. If a similar tack is taken in the US parks and demand is high, that may mean that not everyone will make it into the parks.

Shanghai is currently using an advance reservation system that allows guests, even those with Annual Passes, to reserve time in the parks for a specific day. On top of that, Shanghai saw pretty quick sales when tickets opened up.

Disney World’s proposed reopening plan included the creation of a new theme park reservation system. Though we have few details at this time, this could be used similarly to Disney Shanghai to help limit capacity. Right now, all we know is that some guests, including Annual Passholders and guests with Disney World hotel reservations, will be offered priority access to the reservations system.

Shanghai Disneyland

Don’t count on being able to walk up to the park entrance to snag your ticket; this trip might require some forethought. Keep an eye on DFB to find out what expectations Disney will have for guests as we learn more.

Click here to read about Disneyland Shanghai’s reservation system.

3. You should go ahead and get used to wearing a mask.

It’s true, it’s going to be an adjustment for all of us, but you should probably get used to wearing a face mask. Face masks are currently required for Cast Members and guests in Disneyland Shanghai, in Disney Springs, and at Universal Studios; and we now know that they will be mandatory in the reopened parks and elsewhere on property, per the Disney World reopening proposal.

So, get used to wearing a mask before you have to wear it all day in the parks. Just like you practice walking for hours and break in those new shoes — practice wearing your mask and find a few that feel good and are breathable. Make sure that you don’t have any issues with the comfort of the material or the strings on your ears. Plus, Florida is hot and humid, so getting familiar with the sensation of having one cover your face may take some time.

Read our TIPS for wearing a face-covering in Florida HERE!

©Harvey’s

It’s also important that you consider your kids’ comfort and help them get used to masks so that they are happy following the rules. They may not fully understand why they need to wear a mask, so be sure to fully explain the situation to them. To make them more okay with it, you could even let them pick out their own Disney face mask online!

Looking for some Disney face masks? Click here!

4. Be prepared for it to take a while to get into the parks.

Once you make it to Disney World, it may not be so easy to get from your car or transportation to the park gates. Be prepared for it to take a little while longer to get into your park of choice. The health crisis will mean new entrance protocols like we’ve seen at Disney Springs and proposed in the reopening plan with temperature checks. This could make entry lines long, especially early on as Disney tries to balance the new processes.

Friendship Boats

On top of that, there have been some updates to the Magic Kingdom entrance and the parking lots at the Transportation and Ticket Center that may not be familiar once you visit. You might be in for a long wait for a tram or a longer walk.

See how long it took for us to have our temperature checked in Disney Springs here.

5. Set your expectations realistically.

Based on the opening in Disney Shanghai, it’s important that we realize we may not be able to do all the things we used to. In Shanghai, shows, characters, and entertainment have all been changed with some offerings canceled altogether. Now, a few weeks later, some experiences are returning, but it did take a little while.

Fireworks will be canceled temporarily in Disney World

Similarly, Disney World has proposed that the parks will forgo experiences such as fireworks, parades, and character meet and greets initially. For many, this could make the parks feel a little bit weird while you’re there.

Mickey Mouse

It’s important that you know that the parks may not feel like the Disney World you’re used to, especially right on opening day. This is probably a good talk to have with little ones as well! And remember, be patient and kind to the Cast Members, even if a cancellation or change disappoints you. This is a whole new world for them too.

Reopening day in Disney is sure to be an interesting and potentially historic occasion. We’ll be keeping you up to date with all the details on a reopening. Who knows! Maybe we’ll see you there when the gates open again.

Click here to learn more about the changes to entertainment in Shanghai!

Are you hoping to be in Disney World the day it reopens? Tell us in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney parks, Featured, Walt Disney World, advance reservations, Airline, annual pass, Annual Passholder, disney world closure, Disney World reopening, face coverings, face masks, Florida Residents, Travel Restrictions

Tags advance reservations, Airline, annual pass, Annual Passholder, disney parks, disney world closure, Disney World reopening, face coverings, face masks, Featured, Florida Residents, listgs, Travel Restrictions, Walt Disney World