Normally this time of year, we\u2019d be shining a spotlight on all of the cool, new things that the Disney parks in Florida and California have planned for the coming year. But this year is anything but normal and, as with nearly everything else, the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted Disney\u2019s plans.<\/p>\n
The year 2021 was supposed to have been a banner year for Walt Disney World. The Florida resort will mark its 50th anniversary in October, and there are some E-ticket attractions and more in the works that Disney had said would be ready for the big celebration. Now, the rollouts have been delayed, and their timelines are murky.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the original Disneyland and the adjoining Disney California Adventure Park have new features for visitors to experience. But the two theme parks still haven’t reopened after shuttering in March, and it\u2019s unclear when state and local authorities will allow them to do so.<\/p>\n
The company\u2019s 2021 plans, therefore, remain something of a mystery. As a coronavirus vaccine\u00a0begins to roll out though, there is every indication that the Disney resorts will likely debut some of what they have on tap.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m incredibly optimistic about what 2021 and beyond is going to look like,\u201d says Josh D\u2019Amaro, chairman, Disney parks, experiences, and products. Demand has been strong at Walt Disney World, which began to welcome guests back, albeit at reduced capacity, in July. \u201cYou see people with tears in their eyes,\u201d he adds. \u201cThese experiences are very meaningful\u00a0\u2013 maybe even more meaningful now. When the world starts to open up and change, (visitors)\u00a0will come back quickly, and we will be ready.\u201d<\/p>\n