I’m sure, once in your life, you have wanted to visit the most magical place on earth.  Disneyland has always been the perfect place to laugh, ride impressive rides, eat unnecessary amounts of food, and meet all your favorite characters you see on screen.  Now we wonder, will it ever be the same?  Disneyland first opened in July 1955 by Walt Disney.  Disney World opened shortly after in 1971 after Walt died in 1966.  Both parks have only closed several times and not for more than 3 days.  During this unexpected Pandemic, Disney has taken multiple steps to reopen again as safely as possible.  Disney World officially reopened on July 15 with the approval of Florida State.  Disneyland has been making plans to reopen their parks but as of right now only Downtown Disney has reopened.  

With the state of California still being down, reopening has been a struggle for Disney.  Disneyland is going to use a similar strategy they used when opening Disney World, with limited capacity, their goal is to have little to no Covid cases.  When reopening, only a certain amount of hotels, certain parks, and dining areas will open first.  Masks will be required unless eating in a stationary spot, temperature checks will be required for anyone entering the hotels or parks, park admission will not be guaranteed based on limited capacity, no-touch security has also been included, and many sanitizing stations throughout the property.  Disney has taken many risks, and extreme measures to make sure the magic can continue.  

Their top priority is our safety and the staff’s safety, anyone who defies these protocols will be asked to leave.  Annual pass holders and other guests will be able to reserve a park ticket for the days they plan to be there.  Obtaining these reservations is not guaranteed but made far enough in advance can get you into the parks that day for sure.  Disney has done an incredible job making sure all of the guests and staff is safe during these times, while still making magic.  It is uncertain when Disneyland will officially open but for now, we can just hope that the magic is coming soon.  We will always be children at heart and we carry magic as teenagers and students, with or without Disneyland.

Citations:

Natalie Dreier, Cox Media Group National Content Desk. “How Many Times Have Walt Disney World, Disneyland Closed?” KIRO, 13 Mar. 2020, www.kiro7.com/news/trending/how-many-times-have-walt-disney-world-disneyland-closed/YZQG5L4PXZDZTNK7LDGZ7KJV74/.