By Becca Miller
A&E Editor
When people think of Disney World, they think of childhood, princesses, adventures, and fun. Unfortunately, Disney World and all it represents are one of the many casualties in the coronavirus pandemic. On March 15, Disney World closed after one last fireworks show.
While the closure is deeply saddening, it is clear that it was a wise decision to preserve the safety of guests and employees. According to the Disney World website, “All Disney theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, and the Disney Springs area are currently closed and a reopening date has not been identified.” People can make reservations at any of the above for dates after June 1st; any tickets that would have been valid March 15 through the duration of the closure will now be valid through December 15. Disney World is waiving cancellation fees so that guests can easily abort or postpone their plans and get refunds.
The terms of the closure change almost constantly. As of April 23, all parks, events, and reservations closed until May 16. In the meantime, Disney World announced it will be donating all of its unused food to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. During the closure, no construction will happen in the park. All Disney World construction projects have been halted indefinitely, including the long-awaited Guardians of the Galaxy Coaster and the TRON Coaster.
Other parks in Orlando have also closed, including Universal Studios and SeaWorld Orlando. These closures represent but a tiny piece of how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone’s lives. While Disney World may seem like a frivolous, insignificant thing to focus on in a time of fear and tragedy, it is and has been iconic. It represents many children’s dreams and imaginations. This is the fourth time that Disney World has closed in its long history. Someday, the nightmare that is the COVID-19 pandemic will be over and Disney World will reopen.
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