food IS a theme park
It’s no secret that tourism is a HUGE industry in the state of Florida.
Orlando Sign
With major theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, miles of beautiful beaches, and a host of other activities, Florida attracts visitors from all over the world. The coronavirus pandemic had a big impact on traveling last year, but just how badly did it hurt Florida? Today, we found out.
Disneyland Resort has been closed since March with no established reopening date.
Disneyland Annual Passholder Magnet
Annual Passholders were granted an initial extension when the park first closed. Passholders who paid in full automatically had their expiration date extended for the number of days the parks will be closed or have the option to receive a partial refund. Monthly payments were paused for Passholders who were on the monthly payment program. Disneyland has now issued another statement regarding pass extensions. [Read more…]
Disney Springs is a little more crowded today, and you just have to look at the Under Armour store to see that.
Under Armour at Disney Springs
While strolling around Walt Disney World‘s shopping complex today (and munching some popcorn in our refillable bucket we picked up!), we noticed that the athletic apparel store was at capacity…and we think we know why!
With no one visiting the parks, Disney World has been donating its excess food to help the local community.
Welcome to Wine Bar George! (First floor)
And, although we can’t visit our favorite restaurants in the parks right now, your local Florida grocery store is also finding ways to help those who need it right now.
Disney has had to make a lot of really tough decisions recently.
Magic Kingdom
With all the Disney Parks being closed for the first time EVER, Disney is having to figure out the best way to keep moving forward right now. Although Bob Iger , Bob Chapek, and Rebecca Campbell have opened up about the state of the company, Josh D’Amaro is now giving us some insight into Disney World’s situation.
With the parks currently closed, Disney World and Disneyland have chosen to furlough several Cast and Crew Members beginning April 19th.
Dapper Dans in Magic Kingdom
More than half of Disney World’s employees were furloughed through the latest agreement with the Service Trades Council Union. We also saw furloughs of other unionized musicians and electrical workers, but now an agreement has been reached regarding unionized performers.
With the parks around the world being closed and the Disney Cruise Line canceling sailings, Disney is dealing with a completely unprecedented financial situation.
Disney+ Streaming Service ©Disney
Although Disney has seen increases in Disney+ and Hulu’s target enterprise values, there’s still a BIG possibility that the closures could change the company as we know it. And the Walt Disney Company is trying to prepare for its financial future.
Whether you’re having a BBQ with your family outside or movie night inside, Igloo Coolers can be a great way to store your drinks (POG Hard Seltzer, pls) or Disney recipe leftovers!
©Igloo
While we’ve already been grabbing items from the Toy Story and Star Wars Collections, this INCREDIBLE fundraiser makes us want to buy a BUNCH more! Hey, more Igloo coolers means more room for extra snacks, right? 😉
This year, we are REALLY missing those Grand Floridian Easter Eggs since the parks are currently closed (they’re just so awesome!!).
Beach Club Easter Eggs
Although we LOVE going on an Easter Egg Hunt at home and baking themed treats, Disney World is also warming our hearts as they give back to the Central Florida area this season.
Since the parks are closed “until further notice,” Disney has planned to furlough non-essential salaried and hourly non-union employees starting April 19th.
Walt Disney World
Although this original statement didn’t include unionized workers, now Disney has begun extending furloughs to other employees of the company. While the American Federations of Musicians Local 389 has come to an agreement with Disney, other unions are also making agreements with Disney to furlough for workers.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
