Previously, Guests were only able to remove their masks when actively eating or drinking in a stationary position, but now, Guests can also take photos on Walt Disney World Property without their masks so long as they are stationary, outdoors, and socially distanced. This is something some Guests have wanted for quite some time, but Disney has been vocal about following CDC pandemic guidelines and putting Guest and Cast Member safety first.
Prior to this new rule change, mask-wearing was strictly enforced. ITM team members have seen Cast Members interrupt photos if Guests were not masked and there were also mask reminder signs posted at popular photo spots.
Credit: ITM
Now, those signs are gone! The removal of the signage makes sense considering that keeping masks on during outdoor photos is no longer the rule. It is interesting to see how the signage went up not long ago and then the rules changed — this only goes to show that as the pandemic evolves, things will continue to change in terms of the safety rules and regulations at Disney World.
As you can see, both of these photo spots at EPCOT previously had signage and now they do not.
Credit: ITMCredit: ITM
The new face mask rules at Disney World are as follows:
Face coverings are required for all Guests (ages 2 and up) and Cast Members, including those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine. Please bring your own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining or swimming. You may temporarily remove your face covering while actively eating, drinking or taking an outdoor photo*, but you must be stationary and maintain appropriate physical distancing during this time. (*Beginning April 8)
Credit: Disney
All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) must:
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
At this time, based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings.
Costume masks are also not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with our existing rules.
Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings must:
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
The use of face coverings is not a substitute for physical distancing.
As we previously discussed, by allowing Guests to take photos without masks when outdoors and socially distanced, Disney World is injecting a sense of normalcy back into the parks, which is something that many Guests desire.
Considering so many offerings such as the majority of entertainment, meet and greets, and FastPass+ are not currently available, it is great to know that memories from your Disney World vacation will be able to showcase your family’s best smiles!
1
Credit: ITM
