Previously Maskless Disney Spot Now Requires Masks

As Walt Disney World Resort continues its phased reopening process, certain pandemic protocols have been relaxed in line with Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and state and local regulations. This has led to a particularly ironic situation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park’s Star Wars Launch Bay.

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Walt Disney World officials recently updated their face mask guidelines to allow Guests age 2 and over — who were previously required to wear face coverings at all times unless actively eating or drinking in a stationary position — to go maskless in outdoor, common areas.

However, it is important to note that appropriate face coverings are still required in all Disney Parks ride queues, on attractions, and in retail locations.

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As a result of this new rule, relaxation stations at all four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — have started being removed.

One relaxation station was located at the aforementioned Star Wars Launch Bay. Now, the attraction is back to functioning as an attraction and, as such, Guests who enter the facility must (ironically) once again wear face coverings while they visit.

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It is worth noting that most of what actually attracts Guests to this attraction is still unavailable at this time. There are no character meet and greets with Star Wars icons like Chewbacca and the store attached to the Launch Bay — Launch Bay Cargo — remains closed and does not have a confirmed reopening date at the time of publication.

Guests can, however, enter the lower level of the Launch Bay and view exhibits that feature Star Wars movie memorabilia and Lucasfilm relics, provided they abide by the current face mask policy and wear approved face coverings while inside.

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The official description of the Star Wars-themed attraction reads:

Explore immersive exhibits of costumes, models, concept artwork and actual movie props—as well as authentic replicas created just for Star Wars Launch Bay.

Watch an exclusive short documentary on the creative team behind the ever-evolving story. Explore a Cantina and other settings inspired by the films, then share a furry embrace with Chewbacca, Han Solo’s trusty sidekick.

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For the latest Walt Disney World Resort COVID-19 health and safety protocols, including the latest face mask rule updates, please visit the property’s official website. And, if you need to buy Disney World masks, shopDisney.com and the World of Disney store at Disney Springs have numerous cloth face mask options available.

What do you think about the irony of the Star Wars Launch Bay requiring masks now that it is once again functioning as an attraction and not a relaxation station?

The expert team at Academy Travel can help you plan your next Disney Park vacation, whether you want to visit Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida or Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. At both Resorts, you can journey to a galaxy far, far away when you visit Batuu at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.