Since Walt Disney World Resort in Florida began its phased reopening in July, Guests have dealt with a variety of health and safety changes meant to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Among the biggest changes to all Disney Parks is that all Guests aged 2 and over are now required to wear properly approved face coverings at all times — unless standing or sitting in a stationary position while actively eating or drinking.
Since Disney World’s phased reopening began, Disney officials have made several changes to their face mask guidelines. One of these alterations was disallowing both neck gaiters and masks with valves.
During my recent stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Walt Disney World officials enforced this policy, denying entry to a group of Guests who were wearing neck gaiters instead of approved face coverings.
Related: Disney Is Stopping Attractions When Guests Remove Masks
The Cast Member in the above photo stopped the group outside of the hotel, asking them to wait at a safe social distance until a Pop Century official — presumably from management — was called.
Once the official arrived, the Guests were informed that they would be denied entry until they put on face masks that met all of Disney’s guidelines. Since they were unable to furnish approved face coverings themselves, Disney provided them with disposable masks.
Presumably, they had to purchase Disney face masks in the parks or at Disney Springs at some point during their stay.
Currently, there are signs posted throughout Disney’s theme parks and at all onsite Disney World Resort hotels that outline the current face mask policy.
The signs read:
Face coverings are required for all Guests ages 2 and older.
Face coverings must:
- Be made with at least two 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.
Allow Guests to remain hands free.
The following are not permitted:
-
Neck gaiters
-
Open-chin triangle bandanas
-
Face coverings with mesh, valves or holes of any kind.
-
Costume masks.
Disney also has signs placed throughout hotel grounds and all four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom — stating that “Guests not properly wearing an approved mask will be asked to leave” Walt Disney World Resort.
What do you think about Disney denying Guests entry for wearing neck gaiters? Are you glad the face mask policy is being fully enforced?