After a viral video exposed its dress code policy, Disney on Ice is in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, and fans are not happy.
The controversy ignited on June 27, when Phoebe Parsons (@phoebeparsons__ on TikTok), a Disney fan, expressed her frustration over the policy prohibiting adults over 14 from wearing costumes to the event. This rule is similar to the one enforced at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, and it has caused a stir among Disney fans who feel it takes away some of the magic for grown-ups.
@phoebeparsons__ Disney on ice… you have some explaining to do #disney #disneyonice
“What is this rule?” Parsons asked. “Are you telling me that a 35-year-old Disney enthusiast who is accompanying a four-year-old child to Disney on Ice is not allowed to dress up? Have you seen what’s going on in the world at the moment? Do you know how little we have to be excited about and look forward to, and you’re telling me that I cannot come dressed as a f**king princess?”
Her impassioned plea resonated with many Disney fans, but others pointed out that the dress code was meant to protect the magic for younger guests.
“It’s a rule at the parks too,” said @wayuphigh. “It’s to stop predators looking like staff and children going up to them. You can wear a crown that’s fine, just not a full costume.”
In an interview with Kidspot, Parsons said, “It just felt like a bit of the magic got gatekept.”
“Do I think adults should be able to dress up with their kids? Within reason, yes,” she explained. “If a mum or a big sister wants to wear a matching Elsa cape, why not? It’s harmless fun. The world’s heavy enough, let people do things that fill them with joy. Even if it’s wearing a tiara at 35.”
Some commenters suggested that Parsons explore Disney Bounding, where Disney Park guests dress in clothing inspired by characters without actually wearing full costumes.
“You can still dress up in theme such as wearing colours to resemble Ariel but not actually dress up as her,” @hamiltontheaussieversion commented.
“You can dress up a little,” @kennedyharlow echoed. “You just can’t put on a full-length Elsa gown and sign autographs in the parking lot.”
Not all social media users were sympathetic to Parsons’ situation. Some questioned why adults would want to dress up for a Disney on Ice show.
“It’s not all about you get a grip be a adult and let ya kids enjoy it,” @zanew666 wrote.
“There’s literally no reason for you to dress up babes just your 4-year-old dressing up as a princess is just fine,” said @sienna383838.
Ultimately, while Disney on Ice enforces the no-costume rule for adults over 14, there are still plenty of ways to participate in the Disney magic. Guests can wear Mickey ears, tiaras, or even Disney-themed clothing! However, if your outfit might make others mistake you for a character, you may need to rethink your choice.
Should Disney on Ice allow adults to dress up? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
I don’t understand why a fully grown adult would want to dress up as a Disney character,it’s a bit pathetic to be honest ,jmo
“Disney Bounding” is a LOT of fun. I’m 77 and my daughter is 49 and we thoroughly enjoy doing that!