As we have worked through the Back to the Parks series, we’ve had recaps from Universal, to opening week at Disney, to re-opening of resorts and more. And it was always the same story – safe, clean, low crowds, low wait times, much fun and still magical. But would it be the same the first time a major holiday hit? We the next two weeks will focus on 2 agents who were down at Disney over Labor Day weekend.
She has her mask on in this picture but you know Christie Pownall by now. She’s written almost half my articles it seems! But Christie always brings a wonderful perspective and incredible passion to her families and that includes her own family when she gets a chance to play in the parks. She was one of the Labor Day weekend attendees and was as kind as ever to share her experience with us…
The Trip Basics
What parks did you visit and when were the dates? We visited all four parks during the long, Labor Day weekend. Sept. 4-7.
What made you risk going back so soon? I knew that Disney was doing an incredible job of implementing all precautions and keeping everyone’s safety in mind. I had seen quite a few videos of the crowd levels and had a pretty good idea of what to expect upon arrival.
The Resort Basics
Did you stay on the grounds somewhere? Yes, I stayed at Disney’s Pop Century Resort.
What modes of transportation did you use to get around? We used the Skyliner as well as the bus to get to and from the parks and Disney Springs.
The Park Basics
Was there a certain ticket/package you purchased and what was the process of purchasing (different or the same)? I purchased the 4 day ticket. The process of purchasing was pretty much the same; the difference was checking whether or not there was park pass availability on the dates that I was looking to purchase and then immediately hopping on mydisneyexperience.com to make sure that I reserved those passes.
What were the new guidelines you had to follow (masks, could not do this, etc.)? Some of the new guidelines included: wearing a mask at all times, not being able to eat or drink unless stationary, maintaining a distance of 6 feet while in lines, temperature check upon arrival at the park, and mobile ordering for food.
How was the crowd size? Since it was a holiday weekend, it was definitely busier than it has been since opening. There were a few long wait times at the Food and Wine Festival, but other than that, nothing too terrible. The crowds also dropped substantially each day around dinner time.
Were there any attractions/experiences that were closed due to COVID? There were some experiences/restaurants that were closed due to COVID, but I knew that ahead of time, so I wasn’t disappointed.
What was the attitude like of the Cast Members? The cast members were still upbeat and magical–even when reminding guests how to properly wear their masks.
What was the attitude like of the guests? I believe all of the guests were happy to be there and mostly cooperative with the current guidelines. Some guests were disappointed that they could not remove masks for photographs, but that was the only negative remark I heard.
The New Regulations Basics
How was wearing a mask in Florida in the summer? The mask was not as bad as I thought it would be! It was definitely hot, but nothing I couldn’t handle. The parks also provide many rest areas where you can take a break if needed. A neck fan also helped!
Did you ever feel unsafe? Never. Everything was clean, there was hand sanitizer around every corner, guests were immediately reminded to keep masks on if they tried to take them off or pull them down, and social distancing guidelines were followed.
The Final Advice Basics
Do you think they opened up too early? I do not think they opened too early. I think they did a great job keeping the magic while still doing what they needed to in order to ensure the safety of cast members and guests.
What advice do you have for post-COVID times at theme parks? I would advise guests traveling to theme parks to make sure they bring multiple masks to change throughout the day (it makes a world of a difference!) and as always bring a fan and hand sanitizer.
