Guest Receives Criticism for Purchasing Beer Before 11 a.m. at Disney
Initially, both Disneyland and Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom were dry environments. When Disneyland opened in 1955, Walt Disney envisioned a family-friendly atmosphere devoid of alcohol. This vision remained intact until 1982 when EPCOT introduced the concept of “Drinking Around the World.”
The World Showcase allowed guests to purchase beverages from various international pavilions, marking a turning point in Disney’s approach to alcohol. Since then, nearly all Disney theme parks have adopted alcohol sales, creating diverse drinking at Disney experiences across the resorts.
Related: EPCOT’s “Drinking Around the World” at Disney is Becoming a Problem
Recently, a particular incident has reignited conversations about the appropriateness of drinking at Disneyland, specifically purchasing beer before 11 a.m. A guest at Disney California Adventure shared their experience on social media after they purchased a beer at the Karl Strauss stand in San Fransokyo Square at around 10:45 a.m. The guest faced backlash from another visitor, who expressed disapproval over the timing of the alcoholic purchase. This moment of criticism has drawn attention to the unspoken social norms regarding drinking at Disney.
I just grabbed a beer at the Karl Strauss stand in San Fransokyo and promptly received a nasty comment from another guest. AITA for drinking so early in the day? To be completely honest, it hadn’t struck me as weird, but in hindsight maybe it’s a little weird. This place is for kids/families after all, and my wife and I are here, enjoying a 10:45am beverage, childfree. Having said all that, Disney happily took my $17.
What do you all think?
Related: VIDEO: Drunk, Shirtless EPCOT Guest Swings Pole, Assaults Cast Member, Gets Tased
The guest initially felt comfortable making the purchase, given that the beer stand was open for business, thus reflecting Disney’s policy of allowing alcohol sales at that hour. This incident highlights a growing divide among park visitors: those who embrace “Drinking at Disneyland” at any time and those who believe there should be an unofficial cutoff for alcohol consumption.
Some commenters defended the visitor’s right to enjoy a drink early, emphasizing that Disney would not sell alcohol if it didn’t want guests to consume it at that hour. Others voiced frustration over the audacity of fellow visitors who judge others for their drinking choices.
Support for the guest echoed throughout online discussions, with many asserting that establishing norms around acceptable drinking behavior should not infringe on individual experiences. In a park that invites leisure, many Disneyland attendees noted that their visits often commence with beverages to enhance their relaxation and enjoyment.
As the conversation around alcohol consumption in theme parks continues, the emphasis on responsible drinking remains vital. While guests have the right to purchase and enjoy alcohol, moderation should always be prioritized. Excessive drinking undermines the family-friendly environment Disney aims to maintain; unruly behavior can lead to Disney cast members intervening or, in severe cases, guests being escorted out of the park.
Is drinking at Disney becoming a problem? Was the guest who made a nasty comment in the wrong? Let us know in the comments!
As Parrotheads everywhere know,
“It’s five o’clock somewhere.”
OMG people! Stop being so judgmental. They did not have any children to be responsible for and if they want a beer it’s not up to anyone to give them permission.
The magic kingdom is more for kids and family and shouldn’t have alcohol being served you have three other parks, Epcot and Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom that are more suited to have alcohol. Lots of small children or in Magic Kingdom to enjoy it and shouldn’t be around anyone drinking
It’s five o’clock somewhere, especially Margaritaville. My second observation would be,”Is it different than a mimosa or Bloody Mary at Sunday brunch?”