It has been six months now since Disneyland Resort first closed back in March and, even though Disneyland’s Downtown Disney has been able to reopen and operate for some time, it looks like the theme parks are still set to remain closed for the foreseeable future. And while we know that some behind the scenes discussions have been going on between the resort and California governor Gavin Newsom in regards to some kind of reopening, it looks like Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock is tired of waiting, and has released the following scathing statement regarding reopening process:
We are disappointed with the state’s lack of progress in providing the industry with guidance and clarity on reopening. We have proven we can operate responsibly, with strict health and safety protocols at our properties around the world and at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. Tens of thousands of people’s livelihoods depend on our ability to operate and we stand ready and willing to accelerate discussions with the Governor and his team to make ‘real progress’ toward our reopening and getting people back to work.
In response, Governor Newsom said that the government is “actively working” on a plan, and will have more information “soon”, but declined to provide specifics.
In an effort to be ready for an imminent opening, it has been confirmed that Disneyland will be using a reservation system similar to the Disney Parks Pass system at Walt Disney World, according to the OC Register. This new system will manage attendance caps between regular theme park guests with tickets, theme park guests with hotel reservations and those with annual passes, almost exactly like Walt Disney World’s system and is ready to go as soon as the resort gets the green light to reopen.
Though Disneyland Resort has had to remain shuttered since March, next-door neighbor Knott’s Berry Farm has actually been able to reopen on a limited capacity, by turning itself into the “Taste of Knott’s” food festival. This limited time event will celebrate classic flavors from around the park including new and one-of-a-kind food, drink and merchandise offerings throughout the Ghost Town, Fiesta Village and Boardwalk areas of the park. No rides are open, but the theme park is still able to host guests and keep employees working with this little loophole, and many have wondered if Disney California Adventure (normally hosts an annual Food and Wine festival) couldn’t do something similar.
It looks like Disneyland Resort is more than ready to open its theme parks as soon as possible, and hopefully the resort and the local government will find a way forward in the near future.
