What To Know About Masks at Walt Disney World

When Walt Disney World opened back up in July 2020, it was with the requirement that guests would wear masks while in the parks, at the resorts and throughout Disney Springs.  As the vaccine has become available to citizens and more information regarding COVID-19 has become available Disney has adjusted their masks requirements.  So, when are masks required now?  Who has to wear a mask?  We have what you need to know about masks requirements at Walt Disney World right now.

Who Is Required to Wear a Mask?

According to Walt Disney World’s website, appropriate face coverings are required for everyone 2 years and older.  This expectation might be different from your local area, so make sure you prepare your little ones ahead of time.  Take time to practice wearing a mask out of the house on walks, in stores etc. so everyone can find what style works best for them. Keep in mind that even if you have gotten the COVID-19 vaccine, face coverings are still required throughout Walt Disney World.

What Type of Mask is Required?

Not all face masks are created equal.  Disney requires specific masks while on property so make sure your masks meet the requirements:

• Be made with at least two layers of breathable material
• Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free

Disney does not allow Neck Gaiters and Open-chin Triangle Bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings under our policy.

When Masks Are Required?

When Walt Disney World reopened, guests were required to wear masks at all times throughout Disney Property unless stationary and eating or drinking.  Recently however this requirements have been adjusted as you can see below.

Guests can now choose if they want to wear a mask while outside in common areas as well as on pool decks.  This means you can walk down Main Street USA without a mask now, take those photos smiling away throughout the parks and as the summer heat picks up, breathe a little easier.

Make sure you are aware though that masks are still required in areas such as attractions, theaters, transportation, and indoor areas such as restaurants except when actively eating or drinking.  

With the new guidelines when it comes to masks, this gives guests more choice when it comes to wearing them outside and walking around.  Keep in mind however that as soon as you enter a ride queue, even if it is an outside queue, masks will be required to be worn.  As you will probably be putting masks on and off more than before, think about how you want to keep track of your masks.  Would a mask chain work the best for everyone in the family to keep track of their own?  Do you need baggies to put them in when not wearing them?  Thinking through how everyone can manage and keep track of their masks will be important prior to heading down.

The Disney Company is constantly updating and adjusting their guiding principles when it comes to safety procedures.  You can stay up to day on these by checking out Disney’s Know Before You Go page prior to your vacation.