USA TODAY International Edition
Disneyland ready to bring happy back to California
The wait is almost over for Disneyland fans.
The gates to the “Happiest Place on Earth” and California Adventure will open Friday for the first time in 412 days – the longest closure for Disneyland in its 65- year history.
But things won't be quite as they were pre- pandemic, as safety measures to help prevent the spread of coronavirus will be in place, including face mask requirements, temperature checks and distancing – and no character hugs.
Thousands of fans tuned in on Monday night when the relighting of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle was broadcast live on Facebook as part of a soft reopening event for cast members and crew.
As castle lights came on for the first time in more than a year, “When You Wish Upon a Star” and the sound of Walt Disney welcoming all “to this happy place” on opening day, July 17, 1955, were heard in the background.
“That just sent chills – funny how something so simple can be so significant,” wrote Suzy Gerry.
Disneyland rides await
Most of the popular rides and attractions are expected to be open when guests return, including Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Disneyland.
In Star Wars: At Galaxy’s Edge, reservations will be needed to board the popular Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and can be made through the attraction’s virtual queue on the Disneyland app.
Perhaps the most anticipated for many at Disneyland is the reimagined Snow White’s Enchanted Wish in Fantasyland with new scenes throughout the ride.
Disney California Adventure has been open for shopping and dining. Friday, however, will mark the first time in more than a year that guests can board rides and attractions – most of which Disney has listed as open, including Incredicoaster, Soarin’ Around the World, Radiator Springs Racers and Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout.
The all- new Avengers Campus is scheduled to open on June 4. The new land is taking over the area formerly occupied by “A Bug’s Land.” It is anchored by Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout! .
COVID- 19- induced changes
But strolling down Buena Vista Street in California Adventure and Main Street USA in Disneyland will be different than before the pandemic forced the closure of all California theme parks in March 2020.
Most notably, everyone – cast members and guests 2 and older – must wear masks, even if vaccinated. Signage and markings will remind all to keep their distance from those not within their households.
Character greetings are also changing to meet current health and safety guidelines. Mickey Mouse and other characters will wave to guests from various locations, including their homes in Toontown, and properly distanced photos can be taken.
Parades, fireworks and other nighttime events are also suspended until further notice.
The parks are opening at about 25% of capacity while Orange County, California, remains in the “orange” tier for the coronavirus.
Pre- pandemic, Disneyland averaged about 51,000 guests per day while California Adventure was drawing about 27,000, according to Themed Entertainment Association, or TEA/ AECOM.