FAQ & Guide to Face Masks at Disney World
This guide to face masks at Walt Disney World offers info & tips, recommendation for best masks, rules & policy changes, and answers to frequently asked questions on wearing masks at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, plus traveling to and within Florida. (Updated April 18, 2022.)
The question of “are face masks required at Walt Disney World?” has been a controversial topic among fans for months, since before the parks reopened or the rule was even announced. We are not here to relitigate the topic. If you want to argue about the mask policy, join a local debate club. If you want your voice to be heard about Disney’s rule in a meaningful way, contact Walt Disney World.
As of the latest rule change, Walt Disney World joins all other major theme parks in Central Florida as effectively eliminating their indoor face mask rules. Similarly, SeaWorld Orlando, Gatorland, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida all only “recommend” face masks rather than having actual rules–with only a few exceptions. There are a few places where you’ll still have to wear a face mask at Walt Disney World, as covered below.
April 18, 2022 Update: As of today, you’ll no longer have to wear a mask while flying to Central Florida. Earlier today, a federal judge in Florida vacated the federal mask mandate for airplanes and other forms of public transportation. The ruling found that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had overstepped its authority, failed to adequately explain its reasons for the mandate, and did not allow public comment in violation of federal procedures for issuing new rules.
As a result, the Transportation Security Administration will not enforce its Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs at this time. CDC recommends that people continue to wear masks in indoor public transportation settings.
Already, United, Delta, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines have announced that effective immediately, face masks are no longer required on their domestic flights, select international flights (dependent upon the arrival country’s mask requirements), or at U.S. airports. All other major airlines are expected to follow suit very quickly, as the “Airlines for America” industry group had lobbied on their behalf to end the mask mandate before it was previously extended.
It remains to be seen whether Walt Disney World will likewise drop its face mask requirement on buses and the monorail. Disney’s mask rule for those forms of transportation is predicated on the same CDC order, so it would stand to reason that Disney will follow the lead of the aforementioned airlines. However, it wouldn’t surprise us if Disney waits a little longer to see whether the Justice Department will appeal. Our expectation is that there won’t be an appeal, and Walt Disney World will lift the bus and monorail mask rule by the end of the week–but that’s just a guess.
Now let’s take a look at Walt Disney World’s rules concerning masks; here’s the official face covering policy from DisneyWorld.com:
Face coverings are optional for fully vaccinated Guests in both outdoor and indoor locations. We expect Guests who are not fully vaccinated to continue wearing face coverings in all indoor locations, including indoor attractions and theaters. Face coverings are still required by all Guests (ages 2 and up) on Disney buses and monorails.
All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) should:
- Be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material
- Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
Face coverings should not contain valves, mesh material or holes.
Costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with existing rules.
Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings should:
- Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
- Meet all face covering requirements listed above
Here’s a chart to help understand where masks are and are not required at Walt Disney World for all guests:
Face masks are now optional for fully vaccinated guests on the Disney Skyliner and on the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser transport from Halcyon and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Face masks are still required for all guests aboard Walt Disney World buses and the monorail.
Next, let’s address some of the more frequently asked questions about face masks at Walt Disney World…
Will Walt Disney World be asking guests their vaccine status?
No.
Why not?
For one thing, there’s past precedent–Walt Disney World didn’t make any distinction the last time mask rules were dropped. Also, it’s prohibited under Florida law and other businesses have lost high-profile legal battles with the state.
For another thing, virtually no business anywhere—even in other states without Florida’s laws—is differentiating between vaccinated and unvaccinated guests beyond the honor system policy, unless required by the state (and as mentioned above, Florida does the opposite).
It’s simply not worth the hassle and headache. It would be asking a lot of Cast Members at a time when there’s already a labor shortage and frontline employees everywhere are at about their wits’ end. This is why the new rule is, essentially, “there is no rule.” (Outside of enclosed transportation, where there remains a face mask rule for all guests. You should expect that to be actively enforced.)
If my kids are under age 5, and thus cannot possibly be vaccinated, will they be required to wear masks?
Again, this is effectively the end of enforcement of rules by Walt Disney World.
Even though it can reasonably be deduced that a small child under 5 years old is unvaccinated, Disney will not be policing whether they wear masks in light of the above. Instead, all unvaccinated guests will be “expected” to wear masks. Likewise, I am expected to eat vegetables when I prepare dinner for myself, but you can guess how that goes when I’m left unsupervised.
Why are there still mask rules on transportation?
As best we can tell, that one is outside Walt Disney World’s control. (Honestly, I’m not sure how they’re lifting the rule on the Skyliner and Galactic Starcruiser transport–but this is a confusing of rules and regulations, so there’s probably some ‘exception’ I’ve missed.)
According to the US Department of Transportation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an Order requiring the wearing of masks by travelers on conveyances when boarding, disembarking, and for the duration of travel. The Order defines “conveyance” as including “aircraft, train, road vehicle (including rideshares), vessel…or other means of transport, including military transport.”
At present, it appears that this is set to expire on May 3, 2022. It could be extended, as that has already occurred several times in the past. (We didn’t dig too deeply on this one, so take this explanation with a grain of salt.)
This makes me feel uncomfortable to visit Walt Disney World, any risk mitigation advice?
The highest-risk activity at Walt Disney World since reopening has been dining indoors. That has remained true without regard for any past or present rule changes. The easiest way to reduce your actual risk is by eating outside. See our List of the Best Outdoor Dining at Walt Disney World for recommendations. If you’re comfortable with indoor restaurants, mask rules shouldn’t really change the equation much for you.
For those who are still concerned about face masks, the silver lining is that One-Way Masking Works. High quality masks are now widely available, so your safety is no longer dependent upon what others are doing–your health is in your own hands.
If anything, wearing a properly-fitted N95 or KN95 mask offers greater individual protection than you and others around you wearing cloth masks. A growing number of experts have said cloth masks are inadequate to protect from Omicron and other more highly-transmissible variants. At this point, the onus is on the individual to properly protect themselves, if they so desire.
(Here’s one high-quality mask we recommend. We don’t use it anymore, viewing higher quality masks as superfluous for two relatively young and healthy adults who are fully vaccinated and boosted, but they’re a good option if your personal profile or risk tolerances differ from ours.)
What’s the best mask for Walt Disney World?
We have bought many masks. The best option for personal protection that we’ve used is the Powecom KN95 Face Mask. (That one is often sold out, in which case we recommend this Powecom FFP2 Face Mask.)
After doing some research, I opted for the Powecom masks due to their high performance and scratch-off anti-counterfeit label on the package that provides codes to verify authenticity on the company website. Additionally, they’re comfortable, offer a snug fit, and are relatively inexpensive by high quality face mask standards.
Any other face mask recommendations?
My other favorite option is from Suay LA. These are still a great, breathable option, especially for hot weather when the KN95 mask might be more uncomfortable. These are constructed from medical grade non-woven polypropylene surgical wrap and have a nosepiece. They should offer a degree of protection to the wearer. Both of us prefer the small. It’s a snugger and cleaner fit, especially above the nose and under the chin.
Do many guests wear face masks?
In outdoor common areas, we’d estimate that roughly 20% of all guests are wearing masks as of March 2022. We’ve noticed that this number fluctuates depending upon local case numbers. It was higher in August, significantly lower in June-July, and lower now once again.
During our time at Walt Disney World over the course of the last week, we didn’t observe any discernible differences among the parks. Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios are all more or less the same.
Is the face mask rule being actively enforced on transportation?
That’s hit or miss.
You should absolutely bring a face mask with you to Walt Disney World if you’re relying on enclosed Disney transportation, but don’t be surprised if you see other guests not wearing masks. If that’s a concern, we’d recommend renting a car.
Are face masks be required on boats, ferries, and other watercraft?
No.
What are the face mask rule at the water parks?
Same as above, with one notable exception.
Face coverings are *not* permitted while experiencing water slides or in the water.
Does Walt Disney World sell masks?
Yes. Numerous stores around the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs sell a range of character designs and Disney patterns. These are now on clearance, and prices should continue to drop.
For now, there are still vending machines outside of each park that sell generic ones for $2 each.
Are the masks sold by Disney any good?
They’re actually not half bad. Still not our favorite option, but if you want something reasonably comfortable and cute, they’re a decent choice.
Plus, the Baby Yoda mask is the official “basic millennial” accessory, following the storied legacy of the blue Monsters U hat and Spirit Jersey. If you don’t Instagram yourself wearing a Baby Yoda mask, gazing off into space, and standing in front of a colored wall, did you really even visit Walt Disney World?! 😉
Any other mask-related accessories that are worth carrying?
Essentially anything that will help cool you down. Another absolutely necessary accessory is the Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad. We’ve been praising these things for years, as they’re basically some sort of mix of science, technology, and magic. Great for keeping cool–but staying dry.
Another must-have accessory is the Life Straw Go Filter Water Bottle. Drinking fountain water at Walt Disney World is sourced directly from the swamp, and is actually 3% alligator urine. This bottle filters out the pee, and it’s BPA-free! It also uses a 2-stage activated carbon filter to reduce odor and chlorine, leaving zero aftertaste! (If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, Brita Filter Water Bottles are great, too.)
Another accessory we recommend is this USB-powered travel fan. It’s small, lightweight, and can plug into your external battery charger. This is one of the main recommendations in our Unique Disney Packing List, which is where you can find our all-purpose top picks for things to pack for a trip to Walt Disney World.
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
Do you have any questions this FAQ failed to answer? If you’ve visited the parks since Walt Disney World reopened, what was your experience wearing masks? Do you think there’s anything else guests should know before visiting in during this ‘temporary abnormal’ time? Keep the comments civil, as this is not the place for politically-charged arguing, antagonism, personal attacks, or debating the efficacy of NPIs. We will be heavy-handed in deleting comments that cross the line, even if it’s only a single sentence. You are not going to change anyone’s mind via the comments section on this blog, nor are you going to change Disney’s rules or public policy. If you wish to shout your opinions into the internet abyss, that’s why Facebook was invented.
I am not a mask fan (is anyone, really?), but them’s the rules. Ya gotta wear ’em or stay home. I do question the need for a mask when posing for a picture with either no one else next to you (hey, it can happen!) or with a fur-character. Outdoors. Or a family group in front of their favorite attraction or just a scenic view…
I offered to take a picture of a guy with his family and they took their masks off. I got a few shots before a CM came over to chastise them. They were in the middle of Main St, at least 15 feet away from anyone else in all directions. I had mine on and just shrugged. The problem for Disney is the CMs having to make a decision and then argue with everyone. Easier to just say no, keep it on.
That’s my biggest issue, you pay all that money and you can’t get any good pictures because of the masks. I don’t want to hear this is history. I work hard for my money and I’m sick of staying home. My family had covid, I’m thankful that we are all fine now and I would like to enjoy some family time in Disney.
I also think it would create a loophole. A person could walk around without a mask and if a cast member asked about it, the person can just say “I was just talking a selfie.” Maybe, though, they could have set up spots for picture taking in popular areas with ropes to keep people at a distance and a queue line to take a photo. That might have worked!
Any word if you will need a park pass reservation for the water parks? I tried to do a search on my own, but didn’t find anything.
Just got back from a 4 day Disney stay not bad I would say about 95% were wearing masks properly 3 people were turned away for gaiters social distance better then I expected lines long always on Saturday locals visit had a great time the weather not bad in winter months never go in summer too hot
We’re going in June, did they physically make you prove at the gate that your mask had at least 2 layers? I’m trying to visualize how they are doing this at the gates without removing the masks to check.
Suzanne – We went last month and they did not ask us any questions about our masks. However, I would imagine if your mask is very thin or has holes in it or doesn’t seem to meet their requirements, then they will probably ask you for more information or pull you aside to discuss it. If it looks like it’s meeting all requirements, then they don’t seem to say anything.
We just got back from our first trip of the year and honestly the masks didn’t bother us at all. The trade off of low crowds that allowed us to walk on to every single ride minus mine train at some point was a definite plus. I felt safer there than I do at my local grocery store by far. Guests all seemed to be following the guidelines fairly well, save for a few sneaks of a drink or popcorn while in line. I found it strange though, when we were at the pool with the kids, I was standing next to the pool talking to the kids, setting rules etc and the lifeguard came over and told me i could take my mask off. I was caught off guard but honestly happy to take it off. There was no one anywhere near us anyways and I was waiting for the hubs to bring me a cocktail so it was only a matter of time before I did it myself but, it struck me as odd that I was able to take it off just because I was on the pool deck. I don’t think I would have if there were as many people as there were chairs but since there were maybe a dozen or so people I was ok with it. I guess when walking around blizzard beach masks won’t be required because I can’t keep my mask on and the hold it and get it wet while on the ride. I assume crowds will be well managed because of the difficulty of mask use.
I’ve been there three times. First two weeks in August when FL took over as the hot spot from NY where I was coming from. Some people chase hurricanes I chase the Corona virus.
Then again Dec 4th to the 14th and again from the 24th to Jan 1st.
I;m not writing to write, I have a few important items to add to Tom’s great as always blog.
Should your ride photo be denied because someone NOT in your party had his mask off you can request to ride again for the photo and the wonderful Disney Staff will let you go again without waiting. This happened to us twice. We never asked to NOT wait but each time they brought us to the front of the line. Both times this was on Splash Mountain.
I have no problem with the mask but there is an accessory that my wife uses. She has to wear a mask every day in her teaching job working with mentally and physically challenged young children. It’s a plastic frame that lifts the mask up off your face for easier breathing.
The mask is still sealed against your face but it’s not directly on your nose and mouth. You can find a number of different styles on Amazon (where else).
I can tell you that there is no safer place than Disney. If I lived in FL I would go there everyday to be safe.
I have a friend who visited Disney for a week and completely agrees. An interesting note is that his 21 year old son went to Key West with his mom, my friends ex wife, they went bar hoping, didn’t wear masks and caught covid. Fortunately both he and his mother are young and not suffering but it serves as a cautionary tale.
You can have a great time but do as Tom says. Go when the crowds are low because when they are high, like Dec 23rd to Jan 1st, there are not enough rides, shows or restaurants open to spread the people out. The lines and waiting times are extra long and will feel unsafe unless you are willing to speak up.
That brings me to my last bit of advice and it’s VERY IMPORTANT.
DO NOT HESITATE to ask politely for the family behind you to keep their distance. You can easily take care of the group in front of you by keeping your distance but you may need to remind the folks behind you. Disney has clearly marked lines for safe distance but big families spill over them. DO NOT do it with a dirty LOOK or a nasty comment. If you just nicely ask them to stay back most everyone understands and complies. If you’re on the shy side it may make it easier for you to tell them you’re sorry BUT you have a health problem that makes you susceptible so it’s important to be extra careful.
In closing I would add that we drove down and only stopped for gas. We had brought our own food and drink and slept a few hours in our car. Not fun at our age but we weren’t taking unnecessary chances. Once in the bubble there is no safer place to be so long as you continue to be cautious.
Stay safe and have a great time.
On a number of rides, they don’t even have the ride photos on screens any more, just signs that say they are automatically linked…
Clearly the CDC has never been around a two year old. It is irrational and cruel to expect any child under 5 to wear a mask for hours on end …. whether at Disney or on an airplane. And there appear to be no cases EVER of a child that age giving the virus to anyone.
This would be the worse time to come to the parks with a 2 year old who refuses to wear a mask. This past Monday we watched a family trying to enter Animal Kingdom park where the 2 year old was having an enormous fit crying & thrashing in her stroller while the mother was forcing a mask on her. It was awful to watch. She was hollering at the cast members for an exception to enter the park anyway since her child wouldn’t wear it. I understand both sides. I feel if your child won’t wear the mask, I would wait to visit the parks or find a sitter. I saw a lot of small tots at the park Monday that were wearing the masks with no problem.
What, you’re expecting a government bureaucracy to utilize logic? That’s rich!
Certainly it can depend on the child, just as it apparently is difficult for many adults, but being 2 does not negate a child’s ability to wear a mask properly. My friend’s daughter does it no problem. They started small with her wearing it on car rides for drive-up, moved to grocery visits in person, and have done it when playing with cousins. The little one was recently positive for COVID…the day my friend gave birth to their 4th. Dad, mom, 2 older siblings, and the 2yo have been wearing a mask all day at home, minus being in their own rooms. The rest of the family has remained COVID free. I say this not to rag on kids who have trouble, rather I think we adults need to give kids more credit. Easing them in, modeling proper masking, and encouragement can go a long way.
I’m kind of surprised Disney even allows that exception for children under 2 – I’m not saying under 2 should wear a mask, but for everyone’s safety (including the baby) it would be better not to go to Disney at this time if you can’t wear a mask (which would be the under 2 crew). I did see a lot of little ones (under 5) wearing their little masks properly without seeming to be bothered by it but that probably depends completely on the kid.
Look, I understand what you are saying…I have mixed feelings on masks, myself. Not a deal breaker for me, either way. I don’t feel the Orange County mandate is the issue, as WDW could no doubt legally relax this policy per DeSantis if they wanted to find a way.
My problem with this whole thing is the inconsistency. The masks feel like they are just for show . So Covid is not contagious in water? While eating? Furthermore, people are putting too much confidence in masks while failing to keep their hands clean or make ANY attempt to social distance. Yes, WDW (and every other place has floor markers), but there are way too many opportunities for people to still be in top of each other. People do it to me ALL the time. Even a few cast members. I’d prefer they don’t do this, mask or no mask.
The fact of the matter if it’s impossible to both function in society and keep all these rules, I guess. And I’d rather function in society…even if I am at risk. But it’s almost like masks are just being thrown out there as a security blanket while all else is ignored. I think people are suffering Covid fatigue. At some point, we are going to suffer mask fatigue if it keeps up forever. Lightening up on the outside rule would be helpful. If it’s ok for the water parks, it should be ok at all parks! It makes no sense.
“At some point, we are going to suffer mask fatigue if it keeps up forever.”
I agree with this. I hope public policy makers and health experts understand it as well. I can understand one last push for a stretch of strong masking while vaccines are being rolled out, but when I read about masks being necessary into 2022, I’m taken aback. As the year wears on, more people will be vaccinated, and more people will be fed up with all of the health safety measures.
Same goes for the more recent rounds of lockdowns, which have in large part just driven people to higher-risk indoor household gatherings that cannot be policed. All of this only works so long as there’s public buy-in. But the flip side to that is there’s also more buy-in when the rules aren’t too heavy-handed and balance safety with the burden imposed. Some exceptions to the rules (like no masks while eating) are obvious compromises, whereas others going forward might be necessary to avoid people abandoning the mask rules/recommendations entirely.
We were well past mask fatigue before Thanksgiving! But if that’s what it takes to have businesses open, then you just have to deal with it if you want to go there. It sucks, but it’s still there.
It sucks far more for those who have to wear eyeglasses. Not as bad this time of year, but it still results in constantly adjusting the mask.
I just can’t with the mask conspiracy/loophole crowd. My partner and I canceled our 10th anniversary trip last month because on the whole, we’d prefer to wait until we’re vaccinated to consider our next WDW trip. If dining plans come back before masks go away, I’m sure we’ll consider it. But we both totally support the mask policies at Disney. It’s like the people who think they can go to WDW and be publicly bigoted towards others (which I’ve witnessed), or try to break the rules and bring in unpermitted items. Like you said, FAAFO. (And how I love it when they find out, too!) Whether we’re there right now or not, we much prefer a SAFE WDW for everybody.
It was so funny to see this guy pretending to not understand English and why he couldn’t bring in eight or so bottles of beer to Epcot. We did offer to help dispose of them outside the gate, and security was able to keep a straight face, miraculously.
Under the subheading, “What will be the face mask rule at the water parks when those reopen?”, it says “Although the policy is unpublished, no hotel pool at Walt Disney World requires guests to wear masks while lounging.”
Under the subheading, “What are the mask rules outside the parks?”, it says, “Resort hotels require masks in all common areas…. Masks are required while lounging poolside, using your hotel elevator, etc.”
Could you please clarify? Is a mask expected when relaxing in poolside seating? Thanks!
Unofficially, masks are not required while lounging poolside. We’ve never seen Cast Members instruct guests to put their masks back on while hanging around in the pool area–just when leaving the gate.
Officially, the rule is that pool areas require masks except when *in* the pool.
I’ve updated the text to better clarify this distinction!
Do you want to hear my mask conspiracy theory?
This section right here….Tom if I ever bump into you in the parks I’m buying you a drink….or a cupcake, whatever you want. I needed this in my life today. Thank you Sir.
I’m glad they have the mask policy and wouldn’t go if they didn’t have one so I hope they keep it for the foreseeable future. I love the water parks but will be skipping them for now unfortunately.
Hi. Thanks for this article. I didn’t see it listed, but does disney allow masks made from knit fabric vs woven?
I have a daughter who will barely be 2 (literaly, 2 yrs and a few days old) and may come to the park with us for parts of the day. How strict are they on the two and older part of the rules?
Finally, out of curiosity, how are they enforcing some of the nuances of the rules like the mask has to be two layers? Are they examining each individual mask? This seems complicated
While at Hollywood Studios at Christmas, I saw 2 year old toddler without a mask (probably closer to 3) be asked if they were above 2 at the front of the line. When the parents told the cast member the toddler’s age, the cast members asked them to go get a mask for said toddler before they could ride.
I never saw any cast members examining a face covering but I would imagine if the face covering appears to be very thin or see through or has holes in it… Then they would probably ask about it and/or require a different mask. For the safety of the child, though, it’s probably best to have one that is at least two layers and follows Disney/CDC guidelines for masks.
On the mask brand, my entire family really likes the masks made by Uniqlo.
The CDC now says we need N95, or the lesser KN95, plus a second mask
Do you have a citation/source for this? I’ve yet to see this on the CDC site. Some experts are recommending it, but others are not since there’s still a shortage of N95 masks and a lack of fit testing reduces efficacy.
I believe what you are referring to is the recommendation by Dr. Fauci to double mask or use an N95 to protect against the new strains that are more transmissible. Dr. Fauci and the CDC are not interchangeable and a recommendation is not a requirement.
I’m going in about a week and taking my 8 and 2-year olds. The 8-year old will be fine, she wears a mask all day at school, and I can easily reinforce her.
Do I need to be constantly vigilant with my 2-year old or is there a little wiggle room for a toddler that I anticipate will wear a mask because we all are, but will also likely fidget with it constantly?
There is absolutely nothing you can do to make a two year old do much of anything they don’t want to! Do what you can, and just carry sanitizer and wipes to clean their hands frequently. Maybe some light lotion to offset skin drying from sanitizer.
The part that really, really, really sucks about wearing masks is the fogging of eyeglasses. It’s incredibly annoying and results in constantly adjusting your mask.
how can we go with three chidlren, aged 1, 4 and 5 expecting them to wear masks all day
any suggestions appreciated
The one year old is exempt so that’s good. Other wise practice at home everyday and when you are out and about. By the end of the day the toddlers at Disney are definitely more compliant than the adults!
1 year old does not need them. Start enforcing mask wearing in your daily life and it shouldn’t be a problem. My 3 wore them for an entire Tennessee trip in August except at rental without complaint or difficulty as well as to a couple amusement parks. Kids are more tolerant than adults!
1.Try to get your kids used to them now. We went in October and most kids seemed to be okay with them. The only break downs we saw were by adults.
2. Take A LOT of breaks! This goes for people without kids. Build in a lot of rest breaks!
3. You won’t like this, but your other option is to not go right now. Wait until your kids are older or wait until the masks go away (if that ever happens). I really want to believe Tom when he says this is a temporary abnormal, but Fauci is also now calling for folks to start wearing 2 masks so…
Either way, good luck! We still enjoyed our vacation even with the masks. At the end of the day any vacation is what you make it.
To add to what the others have said: let them pick out fun masks that have patterns or characters or designs that they want to wear – let them choose which one they want to wear each day so maybe they’ll be excited to get to “show it off”. Take extras and keep them on hand at all times (sometimes they fall on the ground or will get wet or dirty or sneezed in, etc).
I’m SO glad Disney understands the nuances of COVID-19 transmission. What’s often lost on laymen is that the virus (like all viruses) cannot be transmitted when in line for a water based attraction SO LONG as that attraction is located in a themed water park. However, and this is the tricky part, attractions located in a non-water theme park leave patrons far more vulnerable and therefore masks should be worn, even if that ride is water-based. Interestingly, one cannot contract or spread the virus when in or around a pool, regardless of size or location. This could be a large wave pool at a water park, or a small pool located at a hotel. Its not yet understood why such bodies of water actually repel the virus, but these policies clearly indicate such. Strange times we live in!
Obviously this is sarcasm, but I view the ‘compromise’ policies as fairly reasonable.
Transmission in ANY outdoor environment, especially one with only fleeting interactions, is pretty unlikely with or without masks. While I’d be on board with Disney dropping the mandatory requirement for masks outdoors, having such a discretionary policy invites further loophole exploitation–such as guests not wearing masks indoors (particularly in queues) and pleading ignorance.
The in-park warnings and signs are already long/abundant enough because guests have tried to game the system. Introducing more variability just increases that.
So Disney has layers of protection. Layer one is that everyone is masked. Layer 2 is that it’s mostly outdoors. Layer 3 is ventilation although they are keeping the specifics on that one close to the vest. A regular HVAC circulates the air in an entire room in 30 minutes but you can filter more rapidly to clean the air faster and hypothetically fit more people. That’s better god, Disney and Orange County though since they are not public with that information.
So without masks at a pool or water park you still have the layer of protection of being outdoors. The virus doesn’t live in water particularly not chlorinated water and none of the queues are indoors. This seems fair. The reason you can’t take your mask off outdoors in the parks is the nightmare of reminding people the moment they step inside to put it back out, also certain areas would bottle neck and become unsafe if a whole extended family with asymptotic Covid was there.
Fair enough. I’d argue standing in line for 30+ minutes fails to qualify as a “fleeting” interaction, but your point is well taken.
Frankly I see it as more concerning because of the perceived ambiguity of the policies. Its very difficult, even with the best intentions, to not look at the rules as seemingly arbitrary and largely dictated by corporate logistical issues and PR management rather than actual safety, which in turn deligitimizes the threat in the eyes of many.
Matt, this is pure gold!
Tom, with all due respect, it would be impossible to plead ignorance when Disney reminds you every three minutes. They could simply change the message to “Masks are required indoors at all times except while stationary for eating. Guests who do not comply…”
Susan, that’s a fair point I hadn’t considered. Disney has clearly had no issue reminding guests of and enforcing existing policies. Its hard to imagine they’re incapable of reminding guests of modified policies and enforcing those. Are these policies really all or nothing? They’re either abolished or maintained as is? I doubt it.
Matt, yes. Love your comment!
I read this in your open With new-released water park polices, we have the first official relaxation of mask rules at WDW but I didn’t see anything different from what it has always been. Did I miss something?
See the section on the water parks.
I’m thinking the same thing.
Are kids able to remove masks when seated in a stroller with a rain cover on?
Not officially, but it’s hard to imagine that’s something that would be actively enforced.
We had one person at the outlet ask how old our kid is (she’s one) because she had a blanket on and it’s hard to see. I doubt most CMs will quibble with you over how old your toddler looks.
when I was in Disney in October, the answer was NO. Every child who was in a stroller of any kind was asked to pull up their mask by passing cast members.
I went at the end of last September, prior to the big jump in cases, and I could not have been more grateful to the cast members for enforcing the rules. Except for one (way too busy) weekend, I was able to vacation and feel pretty safe.
I got the virus in December from a close contact. He was completely asymptomatic and did not know until after I saw him that he had been exposed at work. I got 90% of the symptoms.
For those of you not wanting to wear a mask, I’m glad you are not going. Covid was awful, scary, lonely – and I hope my lungs will someday be the same again. And I am an otherwise very healthy person.
We are planning a trip in May provided my entire party has the vaccine by then. I hope the mask mandate stays in place as long as necessary to keep people safer. I, personally, am willing to make that simple sacrifice to keep my fellow humans safe. Because I love humans and I want them to be okay.
Get well soon! I hope your lungs heal so nicely that you can’t tell you ever had it.
Thank you Maria!!