Hiya, Holly, and welcome back to planDisney! I’m so excited for your December getaway to the
Most Magical Place on Earth! It will be here before you know it!
I’m also glad you’re planning ahead by asking about the Guest requirements for face coverings. Currently, face coverings
are required for all Guests ages 2 and up. As you mentioned, face coverings must be worn at all times, except when dining or swimming. According to the new protocols, you may remove your face covering when you’re eating or drinking, but you must be stationary, and maintain physical distancing, too. So, even if your beverage has a straw, you should only be drinking it when stationary and physically distanced. If a Cast Member sees you walking around drinking with a straw under your mask, you will be asked to move to a place you can stop to enjoy your drink.
As the mom of three little Mouseketeers, I understand how inconvenient this can be when you’re on-the-go during a visit to Walt Disney World, especially on a warmer day. Though my family hasn’t been able to visit Walt Disney World recently, we have visited the
Downtown Disney District in California, and we have also had to adjust to this change. So, I have some ideas to help make this new rule easier to follow. When you’re mapping out each day, I recommend finding Relaxation Stations along your route. These Stations are located in
all four theme parks, and are the perfect spot to temporarily remove face coverings while maintaining distance from others. You can find Relaxation Stations both outdoors and indoors. They’re noted on the guide maps, so you can plan your day around these special break spots. I also recommend scheduling multiple snack and dining breaks throughout the day. This gives you the chance to remove your mask and rest your feet while cooling off and enjoying something yummy!
Lastly, be sure your face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) follow these guidelines:
--Be made with at least two layers of breathable material
--Fully cover your nose and mouth, and secure under your chin
--Fit snugly, but comfortably, against the side of your face
--Be secured with ties or ear loops, and allow you to remain hands-free
I hope this information helps, Holly! Please stop by with any additional questions… we’re all EARs!
Kristin