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Disney and Universal Drop Mask Rules Amid Omicron Surge

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to evolve, the rules for mask-wearing in Disney World and Universal Studios have changed once again. Previously, masks were no longer required for fully vaccinated guests, but now all guests, regardless of vaccination status, must wear masks in indoor areas due to the return of the omicron variant. This change came into effect earlier this month, with Universal dropping its mask requirement first and Disney following on February 17. Despite the pandemic, both companies have continued to push forward with new ride and attraction constructions, including a new roller coaster themed to "Guardians of the Galaxy" at Epcot and hints at a new Minions attraction at Universal.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Covid-19 omicron variant has led to a return of mask-wearing requirements in indoor areas at Disney World and Universal Studios, with all guests, regardless of vaccination status, required to wear masks.
  • The change came into effect earlier this month, with Universal dropping its mask requirement first and Disney following on February 17.
  • The new mask policy will continue to exempt fully vaccinated guests from wearing masks in both outdoor and indoor locations, except on enclosed Disney transportation.
  • Despite the pandemic, both companies have continued to push forward with new ride and attraction constructions, including a new roller coaster themed to "Guardians of the Galaxy" at Epcot and hints at a new Minions attraction at Universal.
  • Universal has erected construction barriers around the theater that formerly housed Shrek 4-D, featuring Minions and indicating that the 4-D theater ride could receive an updated attraction starring the Minions.
  • Disney's new roller coaster themed to "Guardians of the Galaxy" will debut in Summer 2022 and will feature a pavilion with a planetarium-style space and a gallery with displays and projections about the Xandarian people and culture.

Statistics:

  • As of February 2022, masks are once again required for all guests, regardless of vaccination status, in indoor areas at Disney World and Universal Studios.
  • The new roller coaster themed to "Guardians of the Galaxy" at Epcot is set to debut in Summer 2022.
  • The pavilion for the new roller coaster will feature a planetarium-style space and a gallery with displays and projections about the Xandarian people and culture.
  • Universal has erected construction barriers around the theater that formerly housed Shrek 4-D, featuring Minions and indicating that the 4-D theater ride could receive an updated attraction starring the Minions.

Sources:

  • Theme Park Tourist, "Major Mask Policy Update: Walt Disney World Fully Vaccinated Guests"
  • ComicBooks.com, "Universal Studios Florida Hints at New Minions Attraction"
  • Twitter, UniversalORL (@UniversalORL)

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