Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Extend its closures to: “Until Further Notice”

When Disneyland first announced its closure due to the global health crisis, they were the first in the industry to do so and set the standard by which other entertainment providers would follow. Their closure through March 31st was the date emulated up by almost everyone in the industry. However, as conditions throughout the world continue to deteriorate, including stay-at-home orders in California and Orlando, it was curious that Disney waited so long to confirm closure extensions. Leaving cast members and guests twisting in the wind of uncertainty. 

, BREAKING NEWS – Disneyland Closure Extended!

Disney Parks Hourly Employees will continue to be paid through April 18th. So, some cast are confirmed to be paid until the 18th, but the parks will remain closed indefinitely. We do hope that Disney is able to stick with their cast and crew for the duration.   

Stay Tuned!  More information coming shortly!   

Keep reading for the aggressive and pro-consumer and worker-friendly response from Univeral Studios . . . 

Here Are the Latest Theme Park Closure Updates

Universal Theme Parks

Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood issued a unified message earlier this week, adopting an April 19th potential reopening date:

“We are extending the closure of Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood through April 19 as we continue to respond to current conditions and make the health and safety of team members and guests our top priority.  This includes our theme parks and Universal CityWalk at both destinations.  The Universal Orlando Resort hotels have also temporarily suspended operations.  We will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments as needed, based on guidance from health agencies and government officials.” 

Further, Universal will continue to pay its employees through the extended closure: 

, BREAKING NEWS – Disneyland Closure Extended!

In addition, Universal is freezing monthly payments for pass holders. 

Knott’s Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm is going with a more likely mid-May (or as soon thereafter as is possible) message: 
, BREAKING NEWS – Disneyland Closure Extended!

Legoland

CARLSBAD, CA (Friday, March 27, 2020) — With the recent state order to all Californians to stay home and the rapid changes in the Coronavirus (Covid-19) situation, LEGOLAND® California Resort will extend the closure of its theme park, water park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Hotels until April 15, 2020. 

SeaWorld Shocker

SeaWorld won’t just be closing its parks indefinitely, they’ll be furloughing 90% of their workforce as well.  More info: 

Breaking News: SeaWorld Reduces Staff by 90% & Extends Park Closures

Disneyland Resort Original Announcement 

Here’s what Disneyland originally announced on March 12th. They were the first of the large theme parks to announce closure and triggered the announcements of the rest of the industry. Unfortunately, they lagged behind other major players on the closure extensions.   

Original closure announcement: 

, BREAKING NEWS – Disneyland Closing March 14 Due to National Crisis

UPDATES: The Hotels and shopping areas of Walt Disney World and Disneyland were all eventually closed and remain so.  


We’ve Got This! 

, BREAKING NEWS – Disneyland Closure Extended!

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Let’s Hear From You

Are you surprised by Disney’s open-ended reopening plans? Are you missing the parks? Was your vacation interrupted? What reopening date do you think is reasonable and likely? Aside from assurances from government and medical officials that it’s safe, what will it take for you to return to the parks? 

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Dusty Sage
Dusty is the founder and CEO of MiceChat.com. When he's not visiting theme parks and writing, editing or speaking about Disney and theme parks worldwide, Dusty is involved in multiple Disney related projects and charities. He helped save and restore the charming Walt Disney Birthplace in Chicago, launched the Dick Van Dyke Foundation, and is the curator of Walt Disney's historic 1930's estate in Hollywood. If you've got news or photos to share with the MiceChat community, or would like to book Dusty for an upcoming event, please contact [email protected]