THEME PARKS IN FLORIDA COULD DECIDE WHEN TO REOPEN

 BY GABRIELLE


The major theme parks in Florida, including Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, could reopen at their own discretion.

The possibility of allowing theme parks to reopen under their own judgement was discussed by a group associated with the Orange Country Economic Task Force. The group met to talk about the guidelines for reopening businesses in Orange county.

During the call, Chuck Whittall, president of Unicorp National Developments and co-leader of the working group within the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, read a draft approach which would enable theme parks to determine their own reopening schedule.

According to the draft: “Theme parks and other venues of that magnitude shall each develop their own specific and unique set of guidelines following the CDC recommendations and using best practices that will protect the life, health, and safety of their employees and guests. They will be permitted to open at their own discretion with their internally determined level of safe capacities throughout the various phases.”

Universal Orlando, SeaWorld and Disney World have been closed since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

DISNEY WORLD OFFERS STEM-FOCUSED PROJECT FOR HOME-LEARNING

 BY GABRIELLE

As Disney resorts stay closed until May and possibly longer, the theme parks are coming up with novel ways to keep guests entertained as they stay at home amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Disney World is offering a STEM-focused project, which enables theme park and Disney enthusiasts to explore the science behind the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The resort is also encouraging people to build their own coaster system at home and share videos and images with the #DisneyMagicMoments hashtag.

Disney is also sharing its recipes, allowing fans to learn how to make the likes of Disney Parks Churro Bites and other culinary favourites. Universal Orlando is also sharing the recipes of its much-loved treats, including the infamous confetti milkshake created at the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen.

On its Facebook page, Legoland Florida is sharing activities, including word search puzzles and virtual build sessions, which teach children how to make a Lego sandwich. Visitors to Legoland Florida’s Facebook page can also go on a 360-degree virtual walk of the theme park.

MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE APP ADDS NEW FEATURES

BY GABRIELLE

My Disney Experience app has been updated with new features amid the ongoing closure of Disney theme parks due to the coronavirus pandemic. The app is designed to entertain people stuck at home during lockdown.

The new features include highlights from the parks’ shows and parades, recipes inspired by Disney Parks’ menus, PhotoPass wallpapers and activities that teach participants how to draw much-loved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse.

In coming weeks, the My Disney Experience app will be adding further features, including videos, games and fun facts about Disney.

On top of the app, Disney is offering a free ‘Imagineering in a Box’ online learning program, which includes interactive lessons, specifically focused on theme park design and engineering.

The program combines videos and case studies with interactive activities to help provide a fun learning experience centred on theme park design and operations.

Disney World is remaining closed until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.