The wait is over to embrace the magic at Disney Parks across the United States!
As early as April 18, fans will once again be able to embrace their favorite characters, the Walt Disney Company said Thursday.
"Very soon, you will once again be able to hug Mickey Mouse, get an autograph from Mulan, and share a laugh with Goofy," Senior Communications Manager Shawn Slater wrote in the Disney Blog. "We know many of you have missed these special moments, and your Disney character friends have missed you, too!
In mid-April, the traditional character "meet and greets" will return to all U.S. sites, including Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, aboard the Disney Cruise Line and at Aulani Resort in Hawaii.
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The return to "normal" comes after two long years of coronavirus-related restrictions, where fans were only allowed to participate in "character sightings" and take distanced selfes with the cast.
Slater explained that the decision to allow the cast to once again mingle with Disney fans was taken with health and safety protocols in mind.
"Recent trends and guidance have provided opportunities for us to bring back some of our most beloved magic, like character greetings and dining experiences," Slater said.
"While not all locations will be available immediately, we anticipate reopening in phases throughout the spring and early summer."
All of the excitement comes as Disney Parks and Resorts celebrates its 50th anniversary, which kicked off in October 2021.
Already Disney has returned some shows to its parks, like, "Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire" and "Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular." And this spring, Disneyland in Anaheim, California will see the return of "several beloved nighttime spectaculars," according to Slater.
Those shows include "World of Color," a fantastical light and water jet show centered around Paradise Gardens Park, with favorite Disney and Pixar films projected onto the water.
The park's 14-minute "Disneyland Forever," fireworks show also returns on April 22, lighting up the sky over Sleeping Beauty's castle. Other favorites like "Fantasmic!" and "Main Street Electrical Parade" are also set to return.
Disney Cruise Line adventurers won't miss out on the entertainment. Slater said coming this spring fireworks and Broadway-style shows will return to every ship.
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