Ever since Disney began a phased reopening of their parks worldwide, and continues to do so, they have been cautiously reintroducing resorts, dining outlets, retail, and special events into service. One area that has yet to see a return is Disney fireworks.
Currently there are rumors circulating on Disney blogs and social media that Disney is expected to bring back fireworks to the Walt Disney World Resort in early July.
Walt Disney News Today (WDWNT.com) states, ” According to cast members at the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, they have heard that fireworks would be back in both parks by or around July 4th.” They go on to say that the “Happily Ever After” fireworks show is expected to return to the Magic Kingdom, however it is unclear which show will debut at EPCOT. Prior to the shutdown last March, EPCOT was running an interim nighttime show, “EPCOT Forever,” while “HarmonioUS,” the new lagoon show was being readied.
In the last few weeks, Disney has been testing and rehearsing the new show, but the question remains is the show ready for its debut?
Recently the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has issued updated guidelines for those individuals who are fully vaccinated (cleared the two week period from either their Johnson & Johnson vaccine or their second shot from Pfizer and Moderna). They now say those individuals may resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.
However, in light that the coronavirus is not gone and variants are now becoming the primary source of infection, the CDC still recommends that unvaccinated individuals continue to wear a face covering. Although many states are now permitting larger events, based on current guidelines, CDC continues to recommend avoiding those types of events and gatherings.
Starting 1 October 2021, Walt Disney World is gearing up for its 50th anniversary celebrations, so this could be a test run to see how a large crowd-gathering event can be staged and managed.
We have reached out to Disney for comment.
