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A Disturbing Trend: Disney Guests Share the Parks With Hallucinating Visitors

drugs at disney world
Credit: Disney/ Canva

WARNING: The following article contains content that may not be suitable for younger readers. Viewer discretion is advised. 

Disney World is often referred to as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” providing families with unforgettable memories and magical experiences. However, sometimes, guests choose to enhance that magic by taking substances that have a variety of effects on their brain chemistry.

Shocking to some and normal to others, a sub-cultural trend of taking drugs, such as edibles, which can be packaged like candy, prior to entering Disney Parks like Magic Kingdom exists amongst the Disney faithful, and many aren’t sure how to feel.

Disney World Thanksgiving travel

Credit: Disney

In a world where substances like THC are easy to come by, even legal in some places, it was only a matter of time until someone connected the dots between using these chemicals to enhance their Disney vacation experience. Although illicit substances are outright banned at Walt Disney World and Disneyland within their theme parks, some substances, like marijuana, can be legally purchased in California and for medicinal purposes in the state of Florida.

Illegal Susbtances at Walt Disney World

According to Walt Disney World’s website, there are several items that you simply cannot bring into their theme parks. Of course, firearms, ammunition, knives, and weapons of any kind are prohibited, but marijuana-based products are not allowed either. “Marijuana (including marijuana enriched products) or any illegal substance” is banned entirely according to the Disney World Property Rules.

Related: Guest Behavior Reaches New Low at Disney as Dangerous Drugs Are Left Behind Within Reach of Children

As marijuana and other TCH-based products become widely available to the general public through medical licenses, run-ins with guests attempting to bring this substance into a theme park in the form of vapes, pills, and edibles have increased lately.

Animal Kingdom arrest drugs at disney world

Credit: Disney/ Canva

There have been several instances of unknowing guests being detained at the gates of parks like Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom as they go through bag checks and other modes of Disney security.

Obviously, illegal substances like drugs at Disney World are a bad idea, but that hasn’t stopped an entire sub-culture of mind-altering enthusiasts from utilizing the availability of certain products in an attempt to manage or enhance their experiences on rides and at shows.

What Are Edibles Anyway?

Some edibles, or maybe they can be attributed to the user, can even cause a hallucinogenic impact on the mind. According to Good RX, “Higher THC edibles typically have a more intoxicating or psychoactive effect,” while “Edibles with greater levels of CBD cause less of a ‘high,’ but may make you feel relaxed and less anxious.”

Related: Disney Security Catches Guests Doing DRUGS On Classic Magic Kingdom Attraction

The debate surrounding the appropriate use of edibles can be heated. It would seem that the need for prolonged study still exists to determine their appropriate usefulness in the wonderful world of medicine. However, some studies suggest that delayed onset of the THC edibles may lead some individuals to take large quantities, which could be dangerous and create illness and intense hallucinations or delusions.

Taking Edibles to Enjoy the Parks

Exploring the magical world of Disney is a dream come true for many families and visitors. As an esteemed content site, our goal is to provide valuable and differentiated information to our readers. Addressing a pressing concern among some individuals – the topic of taking edibles at Disney World may create some divide amongst readers. Therefore, while we strongly discourage the use of illicit substances, we understand the importance of addressing this issue for informational purposes.

drugs at walt disney world resort florida fourth of july fireworks show epcot

Credit: Disney

According to Reddit and conversations with some unnamed visitors, some theme park guests at Disney Parks enjoy taking edibles prior to their arrival at Disney property.

sneaking edibles into disneyland, ca
byu/Stonedtown intrees

Using this form of cannabis-infused products such as gummies, chocolates, or baked goods, which contain cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), offers the same psychoactive effects associated with marijuana consumption. Despite the commonality and use of these substances, it is important to note that the recreational use of marijuana is illegal at the federal level in the United States, including within Disney World premises.

However, according to some, using these substances often offers a different way to enjoy experiences such as TRON Lightcycle / Run or “Happily Ever After.” The drugs are taken with the hope of enhancing the already amazing experience of Disney World by altering brain chemistry.

Consequences of Taking Edibles at Disney World

The Walt Disney Company maintains a strict “Zero Tolerance” policy when it comes to drugs and illegal substances on their property. Disney World, being a family-friendly environment, prioritizes the safety and well-being of its guests. Accordingly, security measures are in place to ensure that prohibited substances, including edibles containing THC, are not brought into the parks.

Therefore, many will use these products prior to their visit, and as they often are time-delayed, the effects take hold once they’ve started their Disney day.

Related: “A Fatal Trio of Drugs”: Autopsy Results Revealed in Death of Disney Exec

However, there are consequences, both legally and to your health of using and possessing edibles. We’d be amiss if we didn’t discuss these in detail.

1. Legal Ramifications:

Possession or consumption of marijuana, including edibles, is against federal law. If caught with edibles on Disney World property, visitors may face legal consequences, including potential arrest or legal charges.

2. Safety Concerns:

Taking edibles can impair judgment and coordination, which can lead to accidents or injuries. Disney World is a dynamic and bustling place, requiring visitors to be alert and responsible for their own safety as well as the safety of others.

3. Negative Experience:

Disney World offers an array of attractions and experiences that are best enjoyed with clear and conscious participation. Consuming edibles may alter one’s perception and detract from the magic that Disney has to offer, leading to a less enjoyable and unforgettable experience.

4. Impact on Fellow Visitors:

It is important to consider the impact your actions may have on the overall experience of other guests. Intoxicated behavior or the consumption of edibles can disrupt the family-friendly atmosphere and potentially create uncomfortable situations for other visitors.

In summary, taking edibles at Disney World is not only against the law but also goes against the core principles upheld by the Walt Disney Company. We strongly advise our readers to respect Disney’s policies and prioritize the safety and enjoyment of all guests. Disney World is a magical place where the focus should be on creating lifelong memories and wonderful experiences with family and friends. Let us all embrace the enchantment of Disney without the need for mind-altering substances.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug or substance abuse, there is help available. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not condone or promote the use of illegal substances. Visitors to Disney World should always abide by the park’s rules and regulations.

About Michael Arnold

Michael is a father, husband, and an Army Veteran. Michael spends his weekends at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando checking out new merchandise and food. Michael is a graduate of the University of Alabama and has an education background in Public Health. You can find Michael riding Pirates of the Caribbean over and over again or binge watching new Marvel and Star Wars content. Han shot first. Thor is the strongest Avenger. Roll Tide and Wash Your Hands!

2 comments

  1. Impact on fellow visitors? BS. No organization pushes alcohol more efficiently (or profitably) than Disney, and the ritual of “Drinking around the world” at Epcot is practically an organized sport. A visitor mellowed out on THC gummies may not be downing many $15 drinks, but they are much less of an issue while they take in a particulary nice bit of landscaping than the sloppy drunks and angry families we all wade through on every visit. This is baseless fear mongering.

    • And since when has marijuana caused people to hallucinate? It’s not LSD. And I take my THC pills and edibles (don’t smoke it) for anxiety, because the dose is measured. It’s legal and was prescribed by my doctor. I have to switch to Ativan at Disney which is scary addictive.

      Commercial edibles usually don’t take hours to kick in either anymore. They’re much faster acting.