Disney+ has shared a special look at the new series Turner and Hooch, premiering on July 16. What’s Happening: In celebration of National Streaming Day, Disney+ has shared a special look at the upcoming series Turner and Hooch, coming July 16. The series will consist of 12 hour-long episodes about a U.S. marshal (formerly a […]
The post Disney+ Shares a Special Look at “Turner and Hootch” Coming July 16 appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
Theme parks have made some BIG changes recently when it comes to altered health and safety regulations. And, if you’re left with questions, you aren’t alone!
Disney World Face Mask
Since the end of April, Americans over the age of 16 have had access to the COVID-19 vaccine. And, now this accessibility is being extended to individuals ages 12 to 15 years old. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that those who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear masks indoors or outdoors, except in certain situations. After that updated guidance from the CDC was issued, theme parks made numerous changes to their own policies. Today, we’re giving you all the details of what you need to know about how the face mask rules have changed in Disney World, Universal Orlando, and beyond!
Recently, based on updated research the CDC made a big update to its mask guidance. CDC officials announced that individuals who have been fully vaccinated can resume activities without wearing a mask or physical distancing from others, with a few exceptions.
©CDC
It’s important to note that the CDC identifies people to be “fully vaccinated” 2 weeks after they received their final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The CDC still maintains that people who are not fully vaccinated should continue to wear face masks and maintain an appropriate physical distance from others in many settings, including when attending a crowded, outdoor event like a live performance or parade.
©CDC
After health officials set these updated protocols in place, theme parks promptly made modifications to their face covering protocols.
Even before the CDC’s updated announcement, we saw theme parks like Dolly Parton’s Dollywood in Tennessee begin relaxing face mask policies and getting rid of mandatory temperature checks.
©Dollywood
After the CDC released their updated mask policies, Hershey Park in Pennsylvania quickly announced changes to their policies. In Hershey Park, guests who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear face coverings or social distance.
©Hershey Park
Hershey Park has also stated that it will not require proof of guests’ vaccination status. Instead, the park notes that it will rely on its visitors to accurately follow the guidelines based on their own vaccination status. Similar to the CDC’s recommendations, guests who haven’t been fully vaccinated are expected to continue wearing masks and distancing.
Soon afterward, other major theme parks began to make similar changes. Universal Orlando had already removed temperature checks and distancing guidelines previously.
Then, on May 14th, Universal Orlando made the announcement that ALL guests would no longer be required to wear face masks outdoors (except in certain situations), regardless of what their vaccination status may be.
©Universal
Face masks are still be required, however, in both indoor and outdoor queues, in all attractions, in indoor areas (like shops), in restaurants until you’re seated at your table, and in indoor hotel public areas.
Bob Chapek, the CEO of the Walt Disney Company, had previously indicated that Disney World was increasing its park capacity “given the guidance that just came today, from the CDC, and earlier guidance that [they] got from the governor of Florida.” In turn, Park Pass availability also increased.
Main Street
Chapek also stated that the CDC’s modified requirements could “make for an even more pleasant experience” for the guests and Cast Members in the parks, “particularly if anybody’s been in Florida in the middle of the summer with a mask on.”
Disney also released an official statement that “Today’s guidance from the CDC allowing fully vaccinated individuals to remove masks and the removal of physical distancing requirements is extremely positive news and as soon as is practical we will implement updated guidelines across our businesses.”
Hollywood Studios
Disney World had already been making modifications in the parks regarding its health and safety policies. Disney had already announced that it would be phasing out temperature checks and gradually reducing physical distancing measures. Disney also recently started allowing guests to take off their masks for outdoor photos briefly.
But the big change came late in the evening on May 14th. That’s when Disney World announced that guests, regardless of their vaccination status, will no longer be required to wear masks outdoors, except in certain situations.
©Disney
Face coverings are now optional in outdoor common areas and pool decks. But, they are still required upon entering and during all attractions, in all theaters (and their entrances) in all transportation (and their entrances), in restaurants (unless actively eating or drinking while stationary), and in all indoor locations.
©Disney
As these policies have already gone into effect. We have also seen that temperature checks have ended a bit earlier than originally anticipated and distancing signs have started to be updated across the parks and resorts to show Disney’s changes. We’ve also seen distancing measures reduced at The Festival of the Lion King and another show in Disney World.
Keep in mind that while distancing measures are being reduced in Disney World, some physical distancing is still being enforced.
©Disney
Disney notes that physical distancing is gradually being reduced but 6-feet distancing measures continue in dining locations, stores, and select other places.
At this time, Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other businesses that have changed their mask policies aren’t asking visitors for proof of their vaccination status. Some places, however, have been looking into the use of vaccine passports, which would allow customers to show their vaccination status or potentially recent COVID-19 test results.
Health and government officials have talked about possible platforms that may enable the use of vaccine passports. But, Florida has banned the use of vaccine passports in the state.
Disney Mask and Essentials
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has already signed an Executive Order banning the issuance and use of vaccine passports in the state. The Florida legislature has also passed a bill, which was signed into law by the Florida Governor and will become effective soon, that prohibits Florida businesses and government agencies from requiring vaccine passports.
Cast Member Alerting Policy Change
While Disney and Universal Orlando are not currently requiring any proof of vaccination, this law would prevent them from doing so in the future.
As the situation with COVID-19 changes, we may continue to see more changes made in the theme parks such as further reductions in social distancing, greater relaxation of mask rules, the reopening of experiences that are still closed, and more. We’ve already seen several things returning to “normal” in Disney World, and more changes are likely on the way. But, that will likely all depend on the situation with the pandemic, case numbers, vaccination rates, and when/how the theme parks decide it is the right time to make more changes.
New Face Mask Requirements
We’ll be sure to monitor for any other changes and update you on everything you need to know before your next visit. Be sure to stay tuned with DFB for the latest Disney news!
With more than 750 pages, the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs!
With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet.
Click here to order your copy of the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2021 to save 25% off the cover price today!
Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. 
What has your recent experience been like in theme parks? Let us know in the comments below!
The post What’s the Deal with Theme Parks and Face Masks?! first appeared on the disney food blog.
It’s been over a year since Ample Hills Creamery closed at Disney’s Boardwalk, but ice cream is finally returning. Just in time for summer, a sign went up today for the new Boardwalk Ice Cream, and we were able to peek in at the new space. No opening date has been announced at this time, but it looks very close to opening. The menu boards weren’t active yet. It looks like only what absolutely had to be changed was, with […]
The post PHOTOS: “Boardwalk Ice Cream” Replacing Ample Hills Creamery at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort appeared first on WDW News Today.
Off the top of my head, I can probably name at least 5 things that you do every time you go to Disney World. These are things like taking pictures of Cinderella Castle or eating something Mickey-shaped, just to name a couple.
Let’s talk about FOOD.
But, there are likely tons of things you’ve never done in Disney World!
Find out which 50 things you’ve NEVER done in Disney World in our latest DFB Video!
The post DFB Video: 50 Things You’ve Never Done in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.
We love seeing how Disney gives back!
Cinderella Castle
The company has partnered with children’s hospitals and worked towards a more sustainable environment. And now, shopDisney has announced a special way for YOU to support a good cause while you shop.
When you purchase a book on shopDisney from now through December 31st, 2021, Disney will donate a book to First Book. That’s a non-profit organization that helps educators obtain books and resources for children in need!
©Disney
It’s super easy to participate: all you have to do is buy your book, and Disney will do the rest. Do keep in mind that only purchases made online (specifically on shopDisney) count — buying Disney books in person or on other websites will not contribute to a donation.
How cool is this book?!?!?!
Disney emphasizes that the Buy a Book, Give a Book campaign provides “a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of storytellers and equip them with books and resources to build their skills.” Let us know if you’ll be taking part! And stay tuned to DFB for more Disney news.
Are you going to participate? Let us know in the comments!
The post Disney Announces ‘Buy a Book, Give a Book’ Donation Event first appeared on the disney food blog.
You scream, I scream, we all scream for…ICE CREAM! There are quite a few places in Disney World where you can get some delicious, cold, and refreshing treats including Beaches & Cream Soda Shop and L’Artisan des Glaces.
Time for a Little Trip to Disney’s BoardWalk!
Previously, ice cream fans could also head to Ample Hills Creamery at Disney’s BoardWalk. Ample Hills Creamery closed that location in 2020 after the company filed for bankruptcy. That space at the BoardWalk has since sat closed for quite some time. But now something NEW is coming!!
Earlier this year, we noticed some activity going on in the space that used to be home to Ample Hills Creamery on Disney’s BoardWalk. Back in March, there was a boom lift in front of the store and some people were working on the main signage area.
Ample Hills Construction
At the time, we didn’t have any information to indicate whether this was simply part of the process of removing Ample Hills signage from the store or if it was a sign that Disney was making space for something new. But now we’ve got a BIG UPDATE!
Ample Hills Construction
A BRAND NEW ice cream store will soon be taking over Ample Hills’ former space!
A New Ice Cream Spot!
The new shop will be called Boardwalk Ice Cream.
BoardWalk Ice Cream
Official menu information and an opening date have not yet been shared. But, we’ll keep an eye out for more updates!
Time for Some Ice Cream!
Stay tuned for more info from us here at DFB!
With more than 750 pages, the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs!
With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet.
Click here to order your copy of the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2021 to save 25% off the cover price today!
Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose.
Are you excited to try some of the creations from this new ice cream shop? Tell us in the comments!
The post BREAKING: New Ice Cream Shop Will Replace Ample Hills at Disney World’s BoardWalk! first appeared on the disney food blog.
The Disney Dining Plan has remained suspended since the parks reopened last summer.
The Crystal Palace
While Disney has not indicated when it could return, we have seen that it is not available (for now, at least) to add to vacation packages in 2021 and 2022. However, today Disney announced a 2022 50th anniversary vacation package for U.K. residents — which includes a “Disney Dining Credit.” So…what does this mean for the Disney Dining Plan? Well, here’s what we know.
Historically, the Disney Dining Plan has allowed guests to pre-pay for a select number of meals and snacks for their vacation. Depending on which Dining Plan you used, you would be given be given a specified number of snack credits and fast food and/or sit-down meal credits per day, along with a refillable mug for each guest. Essentially, this means Dining Plan guests could pre-pay for most of their food (excluding gratuity at Table Service restaurants) before their trip even began.
Mickey and Pluto at Garden Grill!
Now, the new U.K. 50th anniversary package includes up to a $950 Disney Dining Credit per room (your credit level scales depending on what level of resort you’re staying at), so long as that room is booked for a minimum of 2 weeks. It’s basically a gift card for food! The Dining Promo Card can be used at “select participating food and beverage locations within the Walt Disney World Resort” — and cannot be used to purchase merch or anything else in the parks.
Not a Bad View!
Although the Disney Dining Credit is by no means identical to the Disney Dining Plan (for starters, we’re looking at a set amount of “cash” instead of credits), you could argue that this means the Disney Dining Plan is returning in some capacity in 2022. But how do these 2 offers compare? Well, for starters, the U.K. Disney Dining Credit offers significantly less bang for your buck.
Housemade Spring Rolls in Adventureland
Even that max $950 credit, when divided up over 2 weeks, adds up to roughly $68 per day. That doesn’t really come close to covering your family’s food in the parks — but the Disney Dining Plan did (for the most part). So yes, the Disney Dining Credit will help towards food costs — and it’s definitely a nice perk to the package! — but it won’t cover all of your expenses. In this way, we can’t really equate it to the Disney Dining Plan.
The Plaza Restaurant
Still, the idea of prepaid meals (even in gift card form) does sound kinda like a modified version of the Dining Plan — at least until its return. You could argue that it’s an answer to the Dining Plan while it’s on pause! And with the DDP currently unavailable through 2022 (although that is subject to change), this seems like the closest we’re going to get at the moment. You can check out the full package here!
Like we mentioned, Disney hasn’t indicated when the Disney Dining Plan as we know it will return — so U.K. residents, enjoy this version for now. And stay tuned to DFB — we’ll keep ya posted with the latest updates.
With more than 750 pages, the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs!
With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet.
Click here to order your copy of the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2021 to save 25% off the cover price today!
Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose.
Are you going to take advantage of this Dining Credit? Let us know in the comments!
The post Is This Disney World’s Answer to the Disney Dining Plan in 2022? first appeared on the disney food blog.
BIG news for UK residents!
©Disney
Disney World’s 50th Anniversary is coming up this October and guests will get to celebrate during “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” The celebration will last a full 18 months so guests traveling in 2022 will get to enjoy the fun. If you’ve got 2022 Disney World plans, we’ve got news for you (including a DINING OFFER)!
Disney just announced that Disney World 50th Anniversary Package for UK Residents and there’s a LOT to it. UK Residents can book by August 3rd to enjoy a whole SLEW of benefits for select arrivals in 2022!
©Disney
The special package includes a $950 Disney Dining Credit for those staying two weeks at select Disney hotels (for spending at over 250 locations). This is the FIRST time a dining offer has been released since the closure and the pause of the Disney Dining Plan. The Credit scales for the different resort levels with $950 being the rounded top offer. We will break down this offer and how it compares to the Dining Plan soon. So stay tuned!
You’ll also get a 14-Day Ticket for the price of a 7-day with Memory Maker included, AND you’ll get a $200 Disney Gift Card per booking.
©Disney
Finally, if you book select hotels early (by July 17th, to be exact), you’ll enjoy a free celebration gift basket with a limited-edition 50th Anniversary commemorative coin and exclusive Disney merchandise and treats!
©Disney
We’ll be diving more into that VERY interesting dining offer soon so stay tuned to DFB for all the latest coverage. And, as always, we’ll be keeping an eye out for ALL the exciting news from Disney World and beyond!
With more than 750 pages, the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs!
With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet.
Click here to order your copy of the 2021 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2021 to save 25% off the cover price today!
Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose.
Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you — they’ve literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They’re DFB’s recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!)
So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you
Will you be taking advantage of this deal? Tell us in the comments!
The post NEWS: Disney World DINING and Ticket Offer Announced for UK Residents first appeared on the disney food blog.
A new offer has been released today, and it includes a food credit! But, is this offer indicative of what the Disney Dining Plan could look like in the future? New Disney World Offer There is a new 50th anniversary offer available for UK residents. This offer is good for 2022 arrivals and must be […]
The post Is this new Disney offer the future of the Dining Plan? appeared first on KennythePirate.com.
It gets hotter in Orlando every day as we approach summer, and it might be time to hang up our regular Spirit Jerseys. Luckily, new lightweight Spirit Jerseys have begun to arrive at Walt Disney World. Today, we found an acid-wash lightweight Spirit Jersey featuring Stitch at Discovery Trading Company at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Acid-Wash Stitch Lightweight Spirit Jersey – $69.99 The Spirit Jersey is an acid-wash style denim blue. The Walt Disney World Est. 1971 logo features Stitch perched […]
The post PHOTOS: New Stitch Spirit Jersey Lands at Walt Disney World appeared first on WDW News Today.
