Over the past month, the world has seen an extreme drop in COVID-19 cases. Cases had surged with the Omicron variant, but thankfully, the spike was only temporary. With the sharp decline in COVID-19 cases, many theme parks have eased up on certain health and safety measures. Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland have dropped all mask requirements for vaccinated Guests. Universal Orlando has done the same, and Universal Studios Hollywood has dropped both its mask requirement and proof of vaccination.
One Disney Park has recently made the biggest change of all. According to DLP Report, Disneyland Paris now allows Guests to interact with characters — even allowing hugs between characters and Guests. DLP Report shared the exciting news on Twitter.
?Character hugs and closer contact are once again allowed at Disneyland Paris:
?Character hugs and closer contact are once again allowed at Disneyland Paris: pic.twitter.com/6I2nBpdTYv
— DLP Report (@DLPReport) March 3, 2022
This change in character interactions comes as Disneyland Paris drops its mask requirement. Until recently, Guests visiting Disneyland Paris were required to not only wear masks, but also to present a Health Pass. The Health Pass showed that Guests had either been fully vaccinated or had received a negative COVID test result. Health Passes are still required at this time.
The Disneyland Paris website now reads:
In line with French government guidance, face masks are no longer required but remain recommended at Disneyland Paris as of March 2 for experiences such as our parade and nighttime spectacular “Disney Illuminations”.
Guests aged 16 years old and above need to present a Vaccine Pass to enter Disneyland Paris. Find out more information about Vaccine Pass and what qualifies as being considered fully vaccinated here.
For Guests aged between 12 and 15 years old, a Health Pass remains required to enter Disneyland Paris. Find out more information about a Health Pass and vaccination or testing requirements for guests aged 12 to 15
Presently, Disneyland Paris is the only Disney theme Park that is allowing these types of character interactions. Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort are keeping their character interactions socially distanced. Character meals are only partially back, and the characters do not stop at tables. Hong Kong Disney is still closed due to an uptick in COVID cases in the area. Disneyland and Walt Disney World have not said when close encounters with characters will return. It should be noted that Disneyland Paris is the only Park requiring proof of vaccination to enter.